Easy Marry Me Chicken Recipe: Delicious, and Ready Fast

When you hear the name “Marry Me Chicken,” you might expect a complicated gourmet dish fit only for special occasions. Despite its impressive flavor, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for anyone looking to wow their taste buds with minimal effort. Packed with rich flavors, creamy textures, and just the right amount of seasoning, this dish is designed to impress with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a date night, family dinner, or just craving something comforting, this version of Marry Me Chicken is one of the easiest you’ll ever make.

Why Is It Called “Marry Me Chicken”?

The name comes from the idea that this dish is so irresistibly good, it could inspire a marriage proposal on the spot. Its creamy, savory sauce and tender chicken combine into a meal that feels both luxurious and homey. While the exact origins of the name are unclear, one thing is certain—people love it for both its flavor and simplicity.

What Makes This Version the Easiest?

Traditional Marry Me Chicken recipes often involve multiple pans, long prep times, and specialty ingredients. This simplified version cuts through the complexity without sacrificing flavor. It’s made in one skillet, uses basic ingredients, and takes just 30 minutes from start to finish.

You’ll use boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese—ingredients that are easy to find and require little prep.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the easiest Marry Me Chicken, you’ll need:

• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), chopped
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning, or a blend of basil, oregano, and thyme.
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

These ingredients come together to create a creamy, tangy, and savory dish that’s full of depth and perfect served over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to help them brown more evenly. Next, sprinkle salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides to enhance the flavor.

Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 4–5 minutes on each side, allowing them to form a golden, crispy crust. They don’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage—just seared for flavor. Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes

Turn the heat down to medium in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until it releases its aroma. Then, mix in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes, if you prefer a bit of heat. Cook for an additional minute to allow the flavors to develop.

3. Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, stirring as you go to release any caramelized bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. These add amazing flavor to the sauce. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.

Afterward, add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and well combined. Add the Italian herbs and mix thoroughly. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.

4. Return the Chicken to the Pan

Place the chicken breasts back into the skillet, generously spooning the sauce over the top. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 8–10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is thick and creamy.

You can check doneness by inserting a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should be at least 165°F (74°C).

Serving Suggestions

Marry Me Chicken is incredibly versatile and complements a variety of side dishes. Here are a few popular options:

• Pasta – Fettuccine, penne, or linguine are perfect choices for soaking up the sauce.
• Mashed potatoes – Creamy potatoes provide a soft, neutral base that balances the rich flavors.
• Rice – Both white and brown rice are excellent gluten-free options.
• Roasted vegetables – Try asparagus, broccoli, or green beans for a healthier pairing.
• Garlic bread – Perfect for scooping up the sauce if you want to skip the carbs from pasta.

Tips for Success

Even though this recipe is simple, a few key tips can help you get the best results:

• Use sun-dried tomatoes in oil – They’re softer, more flavorful, and easy to chop.
• Let the sauce simmer – Give it time to develop its rich flavor; don’t hurry the process. Giving it a few extra minutes to thicken will make a big difference.
• Don’t overcook the chicken – Searing first and finishing in the sauce ensures juicy, flavorful meat.
• Double the sauce if needed – If you’re serving it over pasta or rice, make extra sauce to cover everything.

Easy Variations

Ready to adjust the recipe and make it your perfect dish? Here are a few easy modifications:

• Make it dairy-free by replacing the cream with full-fat coconut milk and using nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.
• Boost with spinach – Fold in a handful of baby spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for a burst of color and nutrients.
• Use thighs – Boneless chicken thighs remain extra juicy and are more forgiving if slightly overcooked.
• Make it spicy – Increase the red pepper flakes or add a spoon of Calabrian chili paste for bold heat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’ve never tried Marry Me Chicken before, now’s the time. Here’s why this version is a favorite:

• Quick and easy – Perfect for weeknights or last-minute guests.
• Comforting and delicious – Rich, creamy, and full of flavor.
• One-pan cleanup – Less mess means less stress.
• Elegant enough to impress – Despite its simplicity, it looks and tastes like a restaurant-quality dish.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken is the kind of dish that turns a regular dinner into something memorable. With just a handful of ingredients and one skillet, you can create a creamy, savory masterpiece that feels fancy without the fuss. Whether you’re hoping to impress someone special or just want an easy comfort meal, this version delivers every time.

Next time you’re wondering what to make for dinner, give this easy Marry Me Chicken a try. You might not get a proposal on the spot—but you’ll definitely get requests for seconds.

If you’re craving more delicious chicken dishes, be sure to check out our recipe for tender grilled chicken bites paired with a rich, creamy garlic sauce—it’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for any meal.