Marry me chicken dip
Marry Me Chicken Dip is exactly what it sounds like—a creamy, cheesy, and deliciously spiced dip that's so good, you might just want to ask someone to marry you after…
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Marry Me Chicken Dip is exactly what it sounds like—a creamy, cheesy, and deliciously spiced dip that’s so good, you might just want to ask someone to marry you after tasting it! It features tender cooked chicken shredded into a rich mix of cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and a touch of sun-dried tomatoes or red pepper flakes for a little kick. The result is a warm, bubbly dip that’s full of comforting flavors and perfect gooeyness.
I love making this dip when friends come over because it’s easy to prepare but always impresses. I usually bake it until the top is golden and bubbly, then bring it out with plenty of crunchy crackers or toasted bread on the side. It’s one of those recipes that disappears fast because everyone loves how creamy and flavorful it is. Plus, it feels fancy without needing lots of effort.
One of my favorite things about Marry Me Chicken Dip is that it’s a great conversation starter at any gathering. I’ve noticed people can’t stop talking about how addictively tasty it is and keep coming back for spoonfuls. If you’re looking for a dish to share that brings everyone to the table, this is a wonderful choice. I always make a double batch just so no one runs out too quickly!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to for ease and flavor, but leftover cooked chicken or even store-bought shredded chicken can work well. Just make sure it’s shredded finely for easy dipping.
Cream Cheese: This is the base for the creamy texture. Choose full-fat cream cheese for richness. You can substitute with Neufchatel cheese for a lighter option, but it won’t be quite as smooth.
Mozzarella & Parmesan: Mozzarella adds gooey meltiness, while Parmesan gives a sharp, salty bite. Use freshly grated Parmesan if you can—it makes a difference.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a lovely tang and slight sweetness. If you don’t have these, roasted red peppers or a bit of tomato paste can provide a similar touch.
Fresh Basil: Adds fresh, herbaceous notes. If you can’t find fresh, use 1 teaspoon of dried basil but add it earlier in the mix to activate flavor.
Red Pepper Flakes: Brings a gentle heat. Adjust up or down to suit your spice tolerance. You can substitute with a small pinch of cayenne pepper.
How Do I Get the Dip Perfectly Creamy and Bubbly?
The secret to a perfect Marry Me Chicken Dip is in the mix and bake process. Here’s what helps:
- Soften the cream cheese fully before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly so the cheese, chicken, and spices blend evenly.
- Spread the dip evenly in the baking dish for consistent cooking.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) until you see bubbly edges and a golden top—usually 25-30 minutes.
- Optional: A drizzle of olive oil on top before baking gives a nice golden crust.
Letting the dip cool for a few minutes helps it thicken slightly, so it clings well to chips or bread without falling off. Serve it warm and watch it disappear fast!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven-safe baking dish (8-inch round or similar) – perfect for baking and serving the dip warm.
- Mixing bowl – to easily combine all the creamy ingredients without a mess.
- Spoon or spatula – for mixing and spreading the dip evenly in the dish.
- Cheese grater – helps shred mozzarella and grate Parmesan fresh for better flavor.
- Knife and cutting board – to chop sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and basil finely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky, salty boost that pairs great with the creamy cheese.
- Add chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to turn up the heat for spice lovers.
- Swap sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a milder, sweeter flavor.
- Mix in chopped spinach or artichoke hearts for added texture and a touch of green freshness.
Marry Me Chicken Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped (packed in oil and drained)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil (optional, for drizzling before baking)
- Toasted baguette slices or crackers, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake, so in total, you’ll spend around 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and easy, perfect for last-minute gatherings or a fun appetizer for game day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Dip:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and heavy cream or sour cream until you get a smooth and creamy base.
2. Add All the Good Stuff:
Now, add the shredded chicken, mozzarella, Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until well combined and the flavors are evenly mixed.
3. Bake It to Perfection:
Spread the dip mixture evenly into an oven-safe baking dish, about 8 inches in size. If you like, drizzle a little olive oil on top for a nice golden finish. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, until the dip is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool a bit. Sprinkle fresh chopped basil on top for a lovely fresh touch. Serve warm with toasted baguette slices or your favorite crackers, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Dip?
Yes! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before shredding and mixing. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the quick thaw method by placing it in a sealed bag submerged in cold water.
Can I Prepare Marry Me Chicken Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dip and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, bake it as directed, adding an extra few minutes if needed since it will be chilled.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
You can substitute with roasted red peppers or a spoonful of tomato paste for a similar sweetness and tang. Just adjust the seasoning slightly to your taste.
