When the sun begins to dip below the horizon, casting a warm glow throughout my kitchen, I can’t help but think of a dish that always brings people together: The Original Marry Me Chicken. This recipe is the ultimate comfort food, blending tender chicken breasts with a rich, creamy garlic sauce, swirled with luscious sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese.
You know the feeling when you taste something so delightful that it sparks pure joy? That’s exactly what this dish does—and it’s become known for inspiring proposals! Whip it up for a special date night or a cozy weeknight dinner, and watch as smiles bloom around your table. Not only is it surprisingly easy to prepare, but its flavor-packed sauce will leave your loved ones clamoring for more. So, let’s dive into this delicious culinary experience that promises to impress and create lasting memories!
Why is The Original Marry Me Chicken a must-try?
Irresistible Comfort: This dish blends rich flavors, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can impress their loved ones.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The creamy garlic sauce, combined with sun-dried tomatoes, creates a flavor explosion that everyone will adore.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own or serve over pasta, rice, or veggies for a customizable meal.
Memory-Making: Its reputation for igniting romance ensures it’s a fantastic choice for date nights or special celebrations.
The Original Marry Me Chicken Ingredients
• Get ready to create magic in your kitchen with these delightful ingredients!
For the Chicken
- Extra-virgin olive oil – Adds richness and helps achieve that perfect sear. You can substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Your main attraction; aim for juicy and tender cuts. Chicken thighs are a delicious option for added richness.
- Kosher salt – Elevates all the flavors beautifully. Sea salt or table salt can work as substitutes.
For the Flavor Base
- Freshly ground black pepper – Infuses warmth and depth into the dish; try white pepper for a milder taste.
- Garlic cloves, finely chopped – The fragrant star of the sauce; don’t skimp on the fresh! In a pinch, garlic powder can substitute.
- Fresh thyme leaves – Imparts earthy herbal notes; dried thyme can work, though use about one-third of the amount.
- Crushed red pepper flakes – Adds just a whisper of heat; you can omit or reduce for a milder option.
For the Rich Sauce
- Low-sodium chicken broth – Provides the essential base for your creamy sauce; feel free to use vegetable broth if you want a lighter option.
- Finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes – Contributes sweetness and beautiful texture; consider using fresh tomatoes for a fresher taste.
- Heavy cream – For a luscious, velvety sauce; half-and-half can be a lighter alternative, though it may be less creamy.
- Finely grated Parmesan – Packs a punch of umami; substitute with grated Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free delight.
For the Finishing Touch
- Torn fresh basil, for serving – Adds a burst of freshness; if you can’t find basil, chopped parsley is a great alternative.
Embark on this culinary adventure with the ingredients for The Original Marry Me Chicken, and prepare to impress!
How to Make The Original Marry Me Chicken
Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, then sear until they are golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes each side.
Prepare Sauce Base: Remove the seared chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the finely chopped garlic, fresh thyme leaves, and crushed red pepper flakes. Toast for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant but not burnt.
Make Sauce: Stir in the low-sodium chicken broth and finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, then pour in the heavy cream. Allow the mixture to simmer gently, reducing and thickening into a luscious sauce—about 5-7 minutes.
Combine & Bake: Return the seared chicken to the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated well in the sauce. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven and bake until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, roughly 20-25 minutes.
Serve: Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Plate the chicken elegantly, drizzling extra sauce over each piece. Finish with a sprinkle of torn fresh basil to add that fresh pop!
Optional: Serve with crusty bread or over a bed of pasta or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with The Original Marry Me Chicken?
When enjoying this romantic dish, it’s essential to round out your meal with delightful pairings that complement its luscious flavors.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of mashed potatoes can soak up the exquisite sauce, creating a harmonious bite. They add a comforting element that balances the dish perfectly.
Steamed Asparagus: This vibrant vegetable brings a pop of green and a tender crunch, adding freshness to your plate. Its mild flavor won’t overpower the chicken but will enhance the overall experience.
Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce. This pairing not only satisfies but also creates a delightful garlic theme throughout your meal.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized and slightly crispy, these savory bites introduce a nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. Their slight bitterness balances the richness, providing an exciting taste adventure.
Herbed Quinoa: Light and nutty, quinoa offers a healthy, slightly chewy alternative that can absorb the sauce, enhancing each mouthful. Toss it with lemon and fresh herbs for a fresh sidekick.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons introduce a refreshing texture and a Caesar zing that pairs well with the comforting chicken. It’s a classic way to add greens to your meal.
Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay beautifully complements the creamy aspects of the chicken. Its acidity cuts through the richness while enhancing the flavors of garlic and herbs.
Elevate your dinner experience with these thoughtful pairings, creating a memorable meal that truly matches the allure of The Original Marry Me Chicken.
The Original Marry Me Chicken Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine as you experiment with these delightful alternatives and additions!
Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for firm tofu, marinating it first for extra flavor; it will soak up the delicious sauce beautifully.
Roasted Red Peppers: Replace sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a smoky twist; their sweetness adds a wonderful depth.
Pasta Lovers: Serve your chicken over spaghetti or fettuccine instead of enjoying it on its own, allowing the sauce to coat every strand.
Hearty Grains: Swap pasta for quinoa or farro; the nutty flavors and lovely textures create a wholesome and hearty meal.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, whisking until smooth; this adds a subtle sweetness that’s irresistible!
Extra Spice: Add jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick; this will give your dish an exciting heat that livens things up.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh spinach during the last moments of cooking; it wilts perfectly, enhancing the dish with extra color and nutrition.
Umami Boost: Sprinkle in some mushrooms while making the sauce; their earthy flavor elevates the richness of the dish, creating a gourmet experience at home.
Expert Tips for The Original Marry Me Chicken
Perfect Searing: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. A good sear locks in flavor and moisture, creating a delicious golden crust.
Thickening Sauce: Allow the sauce to reduce slowly; this enhances the richness. If it’s too thin, simmer a bit longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in Italian herbs beforehand. This will enhance the overall taste of The Original Marry Me Chicken.
Ingredient Prep: Chop your garlic and herbs before starting to cook. This ensures you have everything ready and avoids burning ingredients while multitasking.
Sauce Consistency: If reheating, be cautious as the sauce may thicken. Add a splash of broth or water to regain its creamy texture without losing flavor.
How to Store and Freeze The Original Marry Me Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened.
Freezer: You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Just cool it completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To retain moisture, reheat the chicken slowly on low heat. Add a bit of broth or water to restore the creamy texture of the sauce, ensuring each bite is as delightful as the first.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing The Original Marry Me Chicken in advance is a game-changer for busy weeknights! You can sear the chicken and prepare the creamy garlic sauce up to 24 hours before serving. Simply follow the recipe instructions to sear and create the sauce, then refrigerate them in separate airtight containers to maintain their quality. When you’re ready to enjoy this delicious dish, reheat the sauce gently in a skillet, reintroducing the chicken to the simmering sauce until warmed through. This method ensures that your meal remains just as flavorful and maintains that comforting texture, all while saving you precious time for those moments that matter most!
The Original Marry Me Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a tender result, but chicken thighs work wonderfully too, offering a richer flavor profile.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers of The Original Marry Me Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do it gently to prevent the sauce from thickening too much—add a splash of water if necessary to bring back that creamy consistency!
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! You can freeze this chicken for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool the dish completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
What should I do if the sauce is too thin?
If you find your sauce has not thickened enough, just let it simmer a bit longer over low heat until it reaches your desired creaminess. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. For immediate fixes, you can also mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it into the sauce until it thickens.
Are there any common allergy considerations?
The Original Marry Me Chicken contains dairy and gluten. For a dairy-free option, try substituting the heavy cream with coconut milk and using a dairy-free cheese alternative instead of Parmesan. Always check ingredients for specific allergens based on your guests’ needs!
How do I pick ripe sun-dried tomatoes?
When selecting sun-dried tomatoes, look for those that are plump, moist, and bright in color, ideally with no dark spots or excessive dryness. If you’re using dried tomatoes, soak them for about 30 minutes in hot water to plump them up before adding to your dish.
The Original Marry Me Chicken: Irresistible Creamy Delight
Equipment
- - Skillet
- - Oven
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 tablespoons Extra-virgin olive oil Can substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
- 4 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Chicken thighs can be used for added richness.
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt Sea salt or table salt can be used as substitutes.
For the Flavor Base
- 1/2 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper White pepper can be used for a milder taste.
- 4 cloves Garlic cloves, finely chopped Fresh is recommended; garlic powder can substitute.
- 1 tablespoon Fresh thyme leaves Dried thyme can be used, about one-third of the amount.
- 1/2 teaspoon Crushed red pepper flakes Can omit or reduce for a milder option.
For the Rich Sauce
- 1 cup Low-sodium chicken broth Vegetable broth can lighten the sauce.
- 1/2 cup Finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes Fresh tomatoes can be used for a fresher taste.
- 1 cup Heavy cream Can use half-and-half for a lighter option.
- 1/2 cup Finely grated Parmesan Can substitute with grated Pecorino Romano.
For the Finishing Touch
- 1/4 cup Torn fresh basil, for serving Chopped parsley can substitute.
Instructions
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, then sear until they are golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes each side.
- Remove the seared chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the finely chopped garlic, fresh thyme leaves, and crushed red pepper flakes. Toast for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant but not burnt.
- Stir in the low-sodium chicken broth and finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, then pour in the heavy cream. Allow the mixture to simmer gently, reducing and thickening into a luscious sauce—about 5-7 minutes.
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated well in the sauce. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven and bake until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, roughly 20-25 minutes.
- Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Plate the chicken elegantly, drizzling extra sauce over each piece. Finish with a sprinkle of torn fresh basil to add that fresh pop!