One-Pan Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Okay, let’s be honest for a second. The name “Marry Me Chicken” sounds like something pulled out of a rom com, right?

But here’s the thing. This dish is so creamy, tender, and full of flavor that people joke it could win you a proposal. Now that’s some serious kitchen magic.

I made this recipe for a casual dinner one evening, thinking it would just be another creamy chicken dish. Let’s just say it didn’t make it to leftovers.

Ready to impress someone or just have a great dinner? Buckle up for this One Pan Marry Me Chicken Recipe.

What Is Marry Me Chicken Anyway?

Despite sounding like something your great aunt might say at your engagement party, this dish is actually pretty simple.

It’s a pan cooked chicken breast with a creamy sauce made from garlic, sun dried tomatoes, cream, and Parmesan.

So why the name? Some say one bite might make someone drop to one knee. I make no promises, just delicious food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One pan only means less mess and more couch time afterward.
• Rich and creamy without needing an entire dairy farm.
• Quick to make: from fridge to fork in about 30 minutes.
• Savory with a touch of sweetness thanks to those dreamy sun dried tomatoes.

Ingredients

The Essentials

• 4 boneless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 3 4 cup chicken broth
• 1 2 cup heavy cream
• 1 2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 3 cup chopped sun dried tomatoes (oil packed and drained)

Optional Extras

• Fresh basil for garnish (because pretty food tastes better)
• Pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up that sauce

How To Make Marry Me Chicken

Step 1: Prep That Chicken

Season your chicken on both sides with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy here. It’s your flavor base.

Step 2: Sear It Like You Mean It

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden on both sides. This usually takes about 4 to 5 minutes per side depending on thickness.

Take the chicken out and set it aside. Yes, you’ll bring it back later. No, it’s not abandoned.

Step 3: Build That Dream Sauce

In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Add the garlic, red pepper flakes, thyme, and oregano. Cook for about a minute or until your kitchen smells amazing.

Add the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pan to pull up all those flavorful bits. Bring it to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Slowly stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until it’s smooth and starts to thicken slightly. Then toss in those sun dried tomatoes for that sweet and tangy kick.

Step 5: Bring Back The Chicken

Place the chicken back in the sauce. Let it simmer gently for about 8 to 10 minutes. The sauce will thicken a bit more and the chicken will finish cooking through.

Spoiler alert. Your spoon is going to “accidentally” taste that sauce a few times during this part. Totally normal.

Step 6: Serve And Impress

Plate the chicken with a ladleful of sauce over the top. Sprinkle some chopped basil if you’re feeling fancy.

Pair it with pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or warm bread. The sauce is the star, so get something to help mop it up.

Tips For The Perfect Marry Me Chicken

• Do not overcook the chicken. Dry chicken ruins the romance here.
• Use oil packed sun dried tomatoes. They are softer and more flavorful than the dry kind.
• Shred your own Parmesan. The pre grated stuff won’t melt as well and also tastes weirdly like sawdust.

What To Serve With It

Anything that can grab onto this sauce and not let go is a win.

• Angel hair pasta
• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Steamed broccoli or roasted green beans for a little green on the plate
• Crusty sourdough or French baguette

Technically this could be low carb but come on. Do not skip the carbs. You’ll miss the sauce scooping magic.

Can I Make This Ahead Of Time?

Yes, but warm it slowly so the sauce does not split. Heat it low and stir often. It reheats best on the stove, not in the microwave.

You can cook the chicken a day ahead, make the sauce right before serving, and then combine everything at the end. Five star meal planning right there.

What If I Do Not Like Sun Dried Tomatoes?

Are we still friends?

Fine. You can swap in roasted red peppers or mushrooms. The vibe stays creamy and rich. You just lose a little sweetness.

Is This Actually Kid Friendly?

Short answer. Yes.

Long answer. Most kids love the creamy sauce and tender chicken. Just go light on the red pepper flakes if your kid thinks ketchup is spicy.

Closing Thoughts

This One Pan Marry Me Chicken Recipe proves that dinner does not have to be boring to be easy.

It has flavor, style, and easy cleanup. Whether you are cooking for someone special or just treating yourself on a Tuesday night, this one is a keeper.

No wedding ring needed. Unless you are into that kind of thing.

Hungry for more ideas? Check out easy dinner recipes and creamy chicken dishes to keep your cooking game strong.