Name: Marry Me Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme); ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

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If you’ve been searching for a dish that tastes like a dream and promises to wow anyone lucky enough to try it, look no further than Marry Me Chicken. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a luxuriously creamy sauce infused with garlic, Parmesan, and Italian herbs, creating a comfort food masterpiece that feels like a celebration every time you make it. The balance of flavors is irresistible, making Marry Me Chicken a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that could very well be your next favorite weeknight dinner or special occasion centerpiece.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the simplicity of this ingredient list fool you—each component plays a vital role in building the rich, savory layers of flavor in Marry Me Chicken. From the fresh garlic that tickles your senses to the creamy Parmesan sauce that wraps everything in warmth, these essentials come together effortlessly to create an unforgettable dish.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Perfectly lean and quick-cooking, they form the succulent base of the dish.
4 cloves fresh garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant, savory punch that lifts the entire sauce.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, velvety texture that makes the sauce so indulgent.
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Balances the richness and brings depth to the sauce without overwhelming it.
1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme): These aromatic herbs infuse the dish with classic Mediterranean flavors.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce adding umami and a slightly nutty undertone.
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Essential for searing the chicken perfectly and adding a subtle fruity note.
Salt and pepper to taste: Simply seasons the chicken and sauce to bring all the flavors together.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken

Step 1: Prepare and Season Your Chicken

Start by gathering all your ingredients so you have everything on hand. This step ensures a smooth cooking process without rushing or scrambling for what’s next. Then, pat your chicken breasts dry and season them generously with salt and pepper—it might seem basic, but this simple seasoning is key to enhancing the chicken’s natural flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken breasts and sear them for about 6 minutes on each side. This golden crust locks in juices and creates a beautiful color contrast that makes the dish as appealing visually as it is delicious.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base with Garlic and Herbs

After the chicken has a gorgeous sear, add the minced fresh garlic and dried Italian herbs right into the skillet. Stir them in and cook for about 1 minute or until fragrant. This brief but crucial step releases the aroma of the garlic and herbs, infusing the dish with warmth and complexity.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth while scraping up any leftover browned bits from the bottom of the pan—these are flavor gold! Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, which will melt into the silky sauce, thickening it slightly and adding that umami-rich depth that makes Marry Me Chicken truly unforgettable.

Step 5: Simmer Until the Chicken is Tender and Juicy

Carefully return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes. This gentle cooking time allows the chicken to absorb the sauce’s flavors while ensuring it reaches that perfect juicy tenderness that is the hallmark of a great chicken dish.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken

Garnishes

To elevate Marry Me Chicken even further, finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh, chopped herbs like parsley or basil. These bright pops of green not only add a fresh flavor contrast but also make your plate look vibrant and inviting—presentation matters as much as flavor!

Side Dishes

This creamy chicken pairs beautifully with simple, comforting sides. Think al dente pasta tossed in olive oil or lightly buttered to soak up every drop of sauce. Crusty bread is another fantastic companion, perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce, or serve alongside steamed vegetables to add a fresh crunch and color contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special twist, serve your Marry Me Chicken over a bed of creamy polenta or garlic mashed potatoes. If you want to impress guests, plate each chicken breast atop a swirl of sauce with a little extra Parmesan and fresh herbs on top. A drizzle of balsamic glaze could also add a lovely tangy finish that balances all the creaminess.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Marry Me Chicken keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the creaminess of the sauce and the juiciness of the chicken. When you’re ready to eat, just heat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish, but because of the cream sauce, it’s best to consume it sooner rather than later for the best texture and flavor. Portion the chicken and sauce into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Reheating

The key to reheating Marry Me Chicken without losing its charm is to use low heat. Warm it slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce creamy and smooth. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream while reheating can help revive the sauce’s luscious texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through before simmering with the sauce.

Is there a dairy-free way to make Marry Me Chicken?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to keep that cheesy flavor without dairy.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

You can make the sauce in advance and refrigerate it separately. When ready to serve, warm the sauce gently and add freshly cooked chicken to maintain the best texture.

What wines pair well with Marry Me Chicken?

Try a crisp Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir. Both wines have the right acidity and body to complement the creamy, herb-infused flavors beautifully.

Is Marry Me Chicken a spicy dish?

No, this recipe is more about rich, savory, and aromatic flavors. If you love spice, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you cook the garlic for a subtle kick.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Marry Me Chicken—it’s the kind of recipe that feels like a hug on a plate, combining simple ingredients into a dish that feels both luxurious and homey. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try, whether for a cozy night in or when you want to impress someone dear. Once you taste this creamy, flavorful masterpiece, it might just become your go-to meal for years to come!

Marry Me Chicken Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 23 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich sauce made with garlic, Italian herbs, Parmesan cheese, and a blend of heavy cream and chicken broth. Perfect for a special dinner, this recipe offers a comforting yet elegant meal that pairs wonderfully with pasta or crusty bread.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste

Sauce

4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients: Gather all the ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Heat Oil and Season Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Sear Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet and sear for about 6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside temporarily.
Sauté Garlic and Herbs: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and dried Italian herbs. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
Create Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to incorporate any flavorful browned bits. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and cheese is melted.
Simmer Chicken in Sauce: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let everything simmer for about 10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens slightly.
Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve hot alongside your choice of pasta or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Notes

For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
To enhance flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for a subtle heat.
Make sure to not overcrowd the pan when searing chicken to get a proper golden crust.
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best texture and flavor.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently to avoid curdling the sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Searing and Simmering
Cuisine: Italian-American