This dish is so delicious, it’s rumored to inspire proposals! Marry Me Chicken isn’t just a catchy name; it’s a testament to how incredibly flavorful and satisfying this creamy chicken recipe is. If you’re looking to impress or simply treat yourself to an exceptional chicken food recipe, look no further. This skillet chicken dish, bathed in a luscious sun-dried tomato and parmesan cream sauce, is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
For years, I’ve seen versions of Marry Me Chicken recipes circulating online, from Pinterest boards to viral TikTok trends. Intrigued by the hype, I decided it was time to develop my own version, one that truly captures the essence of this beloved dish while adding a personal touch. My research led me to countless variations, and even an article from Today highlighting Delish as the origin of the name, crediting its irresistible flavor to be even better than Ina Garten’s famous “Engagement Roast Chicken”. The common thread in all these recipes? Chicken, a creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan cheese.
Drawing inspiration from these classics, I experimented with different techniques and ingredient ratios to create what I believe is the ultimate Marry Me Chicken recipe. I’ve made a few key tweaks that, dare I say, elevate it to another level. Try it yourself and let me know if you agree!
Elevating the Classic: My Marry Me Chicken Recipe
This isn’t just another creamy chicken dish; it’s a carefully crafted chicken food recipe designed for maximum flavor and ease. Here are the secrets to my exceptional Marry Me Chicken:
- Early Sun-Dried Tomato Infusion: Instead of adding sun-dried tomatoes later, I incorporate them earlier in the cooking process. This allows their rich, savory flavor to meld beautifully into the sauce, creating a deeper and more nuanced taste. I found this method far superior to adding them at the end, where their flavor can remain somewhat isolated.
- Oregano for a Lighter Herbaceous Note: While many recipes use thyme, I opted for oregano. Its bright, slightly peppery flavor profile complements the richness of the cream and sun-dried tomatoes without overpowering the dish. It provides a subtle Mediterranean touch that I find particularly delightful.
- Flour-Coated Chicken for Sauce Perfection: A simple step that makes a significant difference – lightly coating the chicken breasts in flour before searing. This not only helps create a beautiful golden crust on the chicken but also subtly thickens the sauce as it simmers, resulting in a perfectly velvety texture.
- Lemon Juice for Brightness: To balance the richness of the creamy sauce and prevent it from feeling too heavy, I finish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This touch of acidity lifts the flavors and adds a refreshing zing that keeps you coming back for more. I recommend tasting the sauce and deciding if you need that final touch of lemon – it’s all about personal preference!
More Than Just a Name: Why This Chicken Recipe Works
While the name “Marry Me Chicken” might raise an eyebrow in our modern, feminist times (are we really still measuring success by marriage proposals?), let’s be honest – it’s a memorable and effective way to convey just how incredibly delicious this chicken food recipe is. It’s a catchy title that sticks in your mind, and more importantly, it sets the expectation for a truly exceptional culinary experience.
And speaking of creamy sauces – I confess, I’m not always the biggest fan. They can often feel heavy and overwhelming. However, this recipe is different. It utilizes just a small amount of cream, yet it delivers a massive flavor impact. Trust me, the richness is perfectly balanced and utterly worth it. This chicken food recipe is a testament to how a little cream can go a long way in creating a truly decadent dish.
Marry Me Chicken: Ingredient List for Success
To create this magical chicken food recipe, you’ll need these simple yet flavorful ingredients:
- Chicken Breasts: Skinless and boneless are ideal for quick cooking and even flavor absorption. About four breasts should suffice for a family meal.
- Plain Flour: For lightly coating the chicken and aiding in sauce thickening.
- Olive Oil: For searing the chicken and sautéing the aromatics.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is best, but pre-minced shortcut garlic will also work in a pinch.
- Sun Dried Tomatoes: Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained, are key to the signature flavor of this dish.
- Dried Oregano: My herb of choice for its bright and complementary flavor.
- Paprika: Adds a touch of warmth and subtle smokiness to the sauce.
- Double Cream: Also known as heavy cream in the USA, it’s essential for the rich and luxurious sauce.
- Chicken Stock: Good quality chicken stock forms the base of the sauce. Stock cubes or bouillon are perfectly acceptable.
- Parmesan Cheese: Finely grated parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty, and cheesy depth to the sauce.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: Fresh basil, added at the end, provides a vibrant pop of freshness and color.
- Lemon: You’ll only need the juice of half a lemon to brighten the finished dish.
- Sea Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
Step-by-Step Guide: Making Marry Me Chicken
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your own unforgettable chicken food recipe:
- Flour the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on a plate and lightly coat them in plain flour, ensuring all sides are covered.
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Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large, deep frying pan or skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the floured chicken breasts. Sear for about 5 minutes per side, until golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to be cooked through at this stage, just nicely browned.
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Sauté Aromatics: Reduce the heat to low. Add the crushed garlic, drained sun-dried tomatoes, dried oregano, and paprika to the pan. Sauté for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and softened, and the spices are aromatic. This step builds a flavorful base for the sauce.
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Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the double cream and chicken stock. Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan – these add extra flavor! Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and season generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
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Simmer Chicken in Sauce: Return the seared chicken breasts to the pan, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Cover the pan with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 5 minutes. Then, flip the chicken breasts and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside. Cooking time will vary slightly depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts.
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Finishing Touches: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the pan from the heat. Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil leaves over the top and squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the dish.
Serving Suggestion: Marry Me Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes or polenta to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Fluffy rice or quinoa for a lighter option.
- Buttery pasta or noodles for a comforting meal.
- Crusty bread for dipping into the sauce.
- Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for a balanced meal.
Storing and Reheating Marry Me Chicken
Leftovers: Marry Me Chicken is even delicious the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave or in a covered oven until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as the sauce may separate slightly.
Freezing: While creamy sauces don’t always freeze perfectly, you can freeze Marry Me Chicken if necessary. However, be aware that the sauce may change texture slightly upon thawing and reheating, and the chicken might be a bit drier. If freezing is your only option, consider using the reheated chicken and sauce tossed with pasta, where any textural changes will be less noticeable.
Expert Tips for Perfect Marry Me Chicken
- Cooking Time: Chicken breast thickness varies, so cooking times may need slight adjustments. The most reliable way to ensure your chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. The safe internal temperature for chicken is 74°C (165°F).
- Preventing Sauce Curdling: If you add lemon juice while the sauce is still very hot, it can sometimes curdle slightly. If this happens, don’t worry! Simply remove the chicken breasts from the pan, whisk the sauce vigorously until smooth, and then return the chicken to serve.
- Recipe Variations: Want to explore other delicious Chicken Food Recipes with the “Marry Me Chicken” flavor profile? Try Marry Me Chicken Orzo for a fantastic one-pot pasta version. It captures all the deliciousness of the original dish in a quick and easy format.
Explore More Marry Me Chicken Variations:
Marry Me Chicken Orzo {One Pot Recipe}
For a quicker, one-pot meal option.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta {One Pot Recipe}
For a comforting pasta version.
Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken
For a hands-off, slow-cooked delight.
Frequently Asked Questions About Marry Me Chicken
Q: What makes Marry Me Chicken so special?
A: The magic of Marry Me Chicken lies in the combination of techniques and flavors. Searing the chicken creates a beautiful golden crust and seals in moisture, while simmering it in the creamy, flavorful sauce ensures it stays incredibly juicy and tender. The sauce itself is a perfect balance of creamy richness, zesty sun-dried tomatoes, and salty parmesan cheese. It’s a symphony of flavors that’s both comforting and impressive. Plus, it’s a relatively simple recipe to make, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels.
Q: Can I substitute crème fraîche for double cream?
A: Yes, absolutely! Crème fraîche is a great substitute for double cream in this recipe. Full-fat crème fraîche will provide the richest flavor, but reduced-fat versions will also work if you’re looking to lighten the dish slightly. Just be sure to keep the heat low when cooking with crème fraîche to prevent it from splitting or curdling.
Q: What’s the best pan to use for Marry Me Chicken?
A: A large sauté pan or deep frying pan is ideal for making Marry Me Chicken. Its size allows for even cooking of the chicken and provides ample space for the sauce to simmer. If you’re looking for pan recommendations, check out my One Pan Review for my top picks.
Q: Can I make Marry Me Chicken dairy-free?
A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be dairy-free. Simply substitute the double cream with a dairy-free cream alternative (like oat cream or cashew cream) and replace the parmesan cheese with a dairy-free parmesan alternative. There are many great dairy-free cheese options available now that melt and taste remarkably similar to parmesan.
Q: Do you have other recipes with fun, catchy names?
A: I love recipes with a good story or a memorable name! Food is all about bringing people together and sharing experiences, and a fun name can certainly add to the enjoyment. If you enjoy recipes with personality, you might also like my Campfire Stew, Hunter’s Chicken, Bubble and Squeak, Cowboy Pie, and Dirty Rice.
I’d love to hear how your Marry Me Chicken turns out! Please leave a comment and rating below to share your experience. And if you’re on Instagram, tag me in your cooking creations – I’m @tamingtwins!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.93 from 405 votes
Marry Me Chicken {BEST Ever Recipe!}
By Sarah Rossi
This chicken food recipe is truly exceptional! Marry Me Chicken is succulent, creamy, cheesy, and undeniably special. It’s the perfect fuss-free yet impressive dinner for any occasion.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 650 g Chicken breast (skinless and boneless), About x4
- 50 g Plain flour
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 3 Garlic cloves, Peeled and crushed
- 150 g Sun dried tomatoes, Drained
- 1 tsp Dried oregano
- 2 tsp Paprika
- 150 ml Double cream
- 200 ml Chicken stock
- 50 g Parmesan cheese, Grated
- 15 g Fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 Lemon, Just the juice
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Coat the chicken breasts in the flour.
- In a large, deep frying pan, heat the oil over a medium heat. When it’s hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Cook for 5 minutes. Flip and cook for a further 5 minutes.
- Remove the chicken breasts to a plate, turn the heat under the pan to low and add the garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano and paprika. Stir for 3-5 minutes until the garlic is softened.
- Add the cream, stock, parmesan and plenty of salt and pepper and give everything a good stir.
- Sit the chicken back in the sauce. Put the lid on the pan and cook for 5 minutes. Turn the chicken and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Check the chicken is cooked through. Remove the pan from the heat, sprinkle over the basil leaves and the squeeze of half a lemon.
Recipe Notes
Cooking time: Cooking time can vary based on chicken breast thickness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 74°C (165°F).
Lemon juice: To prevent sauce curdling, whisk the sauce separately if needed after adding lemon juice.
Nutritional value: Calories are for a single serving without side dishes and are approximate.
Nutrition
Calories: 566kcal
Carbohydrates: 37g
Protein: 48g
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0.02g
Cholesterol: 157mg
Sodium: 514mg
Potassium: 2069mg
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 17g
Vitamin A: 1732IU
Vitamin C: 26mg
Calcium: 250mg
Iron: 5mg
Nutritional information is an estimate.
Additional Information
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
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