Introduction
Marry Me Chicken is the internet sensation that lives up to its romantic name. This dish is characterized by tender, perfectly seared chicken breasts swimming in a rich, creamy sauce infused with savory sun-dried tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and sharp Parmesan cheese. While the exact origin is debated, it gained massive popularity for its incredible flavor profile and surprising simplicity. It’s the ultimate comfort food that feels gourmet—a weeknight meal impressive enough for a special occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless Chicken Breasts (approx. 600g / 1.3 lbs)
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tbsp Butter
- Salt and Black Pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes, packed in oil, drained and chopped (approx. 75g)
- 1 cup Chicken Broth (240 ml)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream (240 ml)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan Cheese (approx. 50g)
- 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
- Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for heat)
Step-by-step Preparation
- Prepare and Sear the Chicken (10 minutes): Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and almost cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan; sear in batches if necessary to ensure a deep, golden crust.
- Build the Sauce Base (5 minutes): Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the same skillet. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits (fond) stuck to the bottom of the pan—this adds tremendous flavor.
- Simmer and Thicken the Sauce (5 minutes): Stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Tip: Ensure the sauce does not come to a rolling boil once the cream is added, as this can cause it to separate or curdle.
- Finish the Dish (5–10 minutes): Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nesting them into the sauce. Allow the chicken to simmer gently for 5–10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the sauce has further reduced and coated the chicken. Serve immediately.
Nutritional Information
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Per serving, Marry Me Chicken is high in protein (around 45g) and rich in healthy fats, largely due to the heavy cream and cheese. An estimated calorie count per serving is between 450–550 calories, depending on the exact amount of cream used. Health benefits include high levels of Vitamin K from the sun-dried tomatoes and essential amino acids from the lean chicken protein.
Storage
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, the best method is gently on the stovetop over low heat. If the sauce appears too thick after refrigeration, add a splash of milk or chicken broth while reheating to restore its creamy consistency. Avoid aggressive microwaving, as high heat can sometimes cause the cream sauce to separate.
Conclusion
Marry Me Chicken is a testament to the power of simple ingredients combined beautifully. Its rich, velvety texture pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. We highly recommend serving this dish over a bed of fettuccine pasta, creamy mashed potatoes, or fluffy white rice to soak up every last drop of the decadent sauce. For a simple variation, feel free to toss in a handful of fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms alongside the garlic and tomatoes.