The Original Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Ever tried a dish so delicious it made you want immediately propose (or at least beg for the recipe)? Enter the viral sensation: Marry Me Chicken. This irresistible dish features a creamy sun-dried tomato and herb sauce that will have everyone asking for the secret. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, this Marry Me Chicken comes together in one pan with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients List

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – Cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning – Freshly ground
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper – To taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion – Finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic – Minced
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes – Chopped (oil-packed or dry-rehydrated)
• 1 cup chicken broth – Low-sodium
• ½ cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (omit for vegan)
• 2 tbsp fresh basil – Chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley – Chopped
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Optional: 1 tbsp capers, 1 tbsp lemon zest

Substitutions: Swap heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream for dairy-free. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for vegetarian. Replace chicken with chickpeas, tofu, or mushrooms for vegan protein.

Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Efficiency Tip: Prep ingredients while the skillet heats to save 5-10 minutes vs. traditional recipes!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season & Sear Chicken: Pat chicken dry. Toss with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown chicken on all sides (3-4 mins per batch) – don’t crowd the pan! Transfer to a plate.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and cook until soft (4 mins). Add garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and red pepper flakes; cook 1 minute until fragrant. Pro tip: Deglaze the pan with 1 tbsp broth if bits stick!
3. Build Sauce: Pour in remaining broth and bring to a simmer. Scrape up browned bits. Stir in cream, Parmesan, and basil. Simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Combine & Finish: Return chicken and juices to the skillet. Cook until chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temp) and sauce coats everything (2-3 mins). Stir in parsley and lemon zest (if using). Garnish with extra basil.

Nutritional Information

• Per Serving (4): ~420 kcal | 38g Protein | 8g Carbs | 27g Fat | 2g Fiber | 25% Calcium
• Data Insight: High-protein content (38g) keeps you full 50% longer than average chicken dinners.

Healthier Alternatives

• Low-Carb: Use cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles as a base instead of pasta/potatoes.
• Keto: Replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and omit sun-dried tomatoes (higher carbs).
• Gluten-Free: Naturally GF! Ensure broth/stock is certified GF.
• Vegetarian/Vegan: Use white beans or lentils instead of chicken; substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast.

Serving Suggestions

• Plating Tip: Spoon sauce generously over rice, polenta, or buttered noodles. Garnish with lemon twists and extra herbs for restaurant presentation.
• Pairings: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lemon complements the creamy sauce. For a complete Creamy Chicken Skillet meal, serve with garlic bread or a side salad with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Leftover Hack: Transform leftovers into a cheesy baked casserole by mixing with ricotta and topping with breadcrumbs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking Chicken: Leads to dryness. Use a meat thermometer!
2. Over-reducing Sauce: Creates a greasy texture instead of creamy. Remove from heat before adding creamParmesan.
3. Forggetting Deglazing: Essential for maximum flavor – never skip scraping those browned bits!

Storing Tips

• Refrigerator: Airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth to loosen sauce.
• Freezer: Freeze sauce separately up to 3 months. Thaw overnight; reheat and add fresh chicken.
• Meal Prep: Dice chicken and prep sauce components a day in advance for 15-minute assembly.

Conclusion

This Marry Me Chicken recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under 40 minutes – creamy, tangy, and intensely savory! It’s the perfect weeknight hero meal that doubles as impressive party food. Ready to make some love connections? Save this recipe, tag a foodie friend, and don’t forget to share your creations! 👩🍳💖

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FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, thaw completely and pat dry. Sear time may increase by 2-3 minutes.
2. How do I make it spicier?
Add 1 tsp cayenne, ¼ tsp smoked paprika, or extra red pepper flakes.
3. Can I make this ahead?
Assemble the sauce up to 2 days in advance. Cook chicken fresh and combine just before serving for best texture.
4. Is the sauce creamy without cream?
Yes! Blend soaked cashews with broth for a rich, thick sauce (~½ cup cashews to ¾ cup broth).