The Original Marry Me Chicken: Irresistible Creamy Delight
The Original Marry Me Chicken is a delightful comfort food that blends tender chicken with a rich, creamy garlic sauce, igniting romance with every bite.
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!
Notes
Optional: Serve with crusty bread or over a bed of pasta or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.