Easy Marry Me Chicken
Easy Marry Me Chicken is a wonderfully creamy and flavorful dish that gets its name because it's so good, it might just inspire a proposal! This recipe features tender chicken…
Tip: save now, read later.
Easy Marry Me Chicken is a wonderfully creamy and flavorful dish that gets its name because it’s so good, it might just inspire a proposal! This recipe features tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich sauce made with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, cream, and fresh herbs. The blend of savory and tangy flavors makes every bite a delight.
I love making this dish on weeknights when I want something impressive but worry-free. The best part is how quickly it comes together, yet it tastes like you’ve been cooking all afternoon. I usually serve it with some warm crusty bread or over a bed of pasta to soak up all that delicious sauce—trust me, you won’t want to waste a single drop.
What makes Easy Marry Me Chicken so special to me is how often it brings people together. It’s the kind of meal that sparks smiles and stories around the table, creating cozy memories without any fuss. If you ask me, that’s exactly the kind of recipe to keep on repeat in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Thighs stay juicy and have more flavor, but breasts work well if you prefer lean meat. Just watch the cooking time so breasts don’t dry out.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add great tang and depth. Oil-packed ones bring extra richness, but dry-packed work too—just rehydrate them a bit in warm water.
Heavy Cream: Essential for that creamy sauce. For a lighter option, try half-and-half or coconut cream if dairy-free, but the sauce will be less thick.
Herbs & Spices: Smoked paprika adds warmth and color. If you don’t have Italian seasoning, a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme works perfectly.
How Do I Get Perfectly Seared Chicken Every Time?
Searing chicken well locks in juices and builds flavor. Here’s how I do it:
- Pat chicken dry to prevent steaming.
- Heat olive oil until shimmering but not smoking.
- Place chicken in the pan without crowding it.
- Don’t move it around—let it form a golden crust, about 5-6 minutes per side.
- After searing, remove and set aside before making the sauce.
This method creates a nice crust that holds up during simmering and keeps the chicken tender inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for searing chicken and simmering the creamy sauce all in one pan.
- Wooden spoon – great for scraping up flavorful browned bits without scratching your skillet.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your cream, broth, and spices just right.
- Tongs – help you flip the chicken easily without losing that golden crust.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken thighs for breasts if you want a leaner option; just cook a bit less to keep juicy.
- Add sliced mushrooms with the garlic for extra earthiness and texture.
- Stir in fresh spinach near the end for a pop of color and mild flavor.
- Use goat cheese instead of cream for a tangier, slightly thicker sauce variation.
Easy Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed preferred)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- Fresh basil and fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in around 35 minutes – perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Sear the Chicken:
Pat the chicken dry and sprinkle salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and dried herbs on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown. Then remove the chicken and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the skillet to loosen browned bits. Add cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
3. Simmer and Serve:
Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon some sauce on top. Cover and let everything simmer on medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, or until chicken is fully cooked and sauce thickens. Taste and add more salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh basil and rosemary, then serve hot over pasta, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread to enjoy the creamy sauce.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw the chicken completely in the fridge overnight before cooking. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture for better searing.
What Can I Substitute for Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, diced roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes sautéed until soft make great alternatives and still add a nice tangy flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce if needed.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, though the sauce will be a little lighter in texture and different in flavor.
