Marry Me Chicken: Creamy, Romantic, and Full of Flavor

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Marry Me Chicken is a dish that lives up to its name. Creamy, rich, and deeply comforting, it is the kind of meal that feels special enough for a celebration yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Tender chicken is simmered in a luxurious sauce made with garlic, cream, and sun-dried tomatoes, creating a balance of savory, slightly tangy, and indulgent flavors. I enjoy this recipe because it consistently delivers impressive results with simple ingredients. I first made it when I wanted something comforting but elevated, and it immediately became a favorite. The sauce is the real highlight, clinging beautifully to the chicken and pairing well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. This is a dish that feels thoughtfully prepared, warmly inviting, and undeniably satisfying.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breasts
Chicken breasts provide a lean yet tender base for the dish. When cooked gently in the sauce, they remain juicy and flavorful.

Salt
Salt enhances the natural flavor of the chicken and seasons the sauce evenly.

Black pepper
Black pepper adds mild warmth and balances the richness of the cream.

All-purpose flour
Flour is used lightly to coat the chicken, helping it brown and slightly thicken the sauce.

Olive oil
Olive oil is ideal for searing the chicken and adds subtle richness.

Butter
Butter deepens the flavor of the sauce and adds a silky finish.

Garlic
Garlic brings aromatic depth and savory character that defines the dish.

Chicken broth
Chicken broth forms the savory base of the sauce and keeps it balanced.

Heavy cream
Cream creates the signature velvety texture and luxurious mouthfeel.

Sun-dried tomatoes
Sun-dried tomatoes add tangy sweetness and visual contrast, cutting through the richness.

Parmesan cheese
Parmesan adds saltiness and depth while helping thicken the sauce.

Dried thyme
Thyme adds gentle herbal warmth that complements the cream and garlic.

Red pepper flakes
Red pepper flakes provide subtle heat and balance the richness.

Fresh basil
Basil adds freshness and a bright finish just before serving.

Directions

Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper, then lightly coat them with flour, shaking off any excess. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden, then remove and set aside. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Stir in the cream, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Allow the sauce to simmer gently until slightly thickened. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer until fully cooked and coated in the sauce. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves four people. Preparation takes approximately 10 minutes, with a cooking time of about 25 to 30 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftover Marry Me Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.

Variations and Customizations

Pasta Version
Serve the chicken and sauce over pasta for a complete meal.

Spinach Addition
Stir in fresh spinach at the end for added color and nutrition.

Dairy-Free Option
Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Extra Spicy Version
Increase red pepper flakes for more heat.

Thighs Instead of Breasts
Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.

FAQs

Why is it called Marry Me Chicken?

The name comes from its rich, irresistible flavor.

Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes, they work very well in this recipe.

Is this dish very spicy?

No, it has mild heat that can be adjusted.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well.

What should I serve with it?

Pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes pair well.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not recommended due to the cream sauce.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer gently until reduced.

Can I use half-and-half?

Yes, but the sauce will be slightly lighter.

Are sun-dried tomatoes necessary?

They add signature flavor, but can be reduced.

Is this good for guests?

Yes, it is elegant and crowd-pleasing.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken is a comforting, creamy dish that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. With its rich sauce and tender chicken, it is a recipe that feels both romantic and reliable, making it perfect for special occasions or everyday dinners alike.

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