Hey y'all! If you're searching for a meal that's rich, creamy, and guaranteed to impress, look no further than Marry Me Chicken (In Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce). This mouthwatering dish features tender chicken breasts simmered in a dreamy sauce bursting with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan—making it the ultimate comfort food for weeknights, date nights, or family gatherings. Ready to wow your loved ones? Let’s get cooking!
Why You'll Love Marry Me Chicken (In Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)
- Rich, creamy flavor with just the right touch of tang from sun-dried tomatoes.
- Quick and easy, ready in under 40 minutes—perfect for busy nights.
- Pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
- Versatile—dress it up for a romantic dinner or keep it casual for family meals.
- Simple ingredients, big restaurant-quality taste!
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken (In Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¾ cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), drained and sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil (plus more for garnish)
How to Make Marry Me Chicken (In Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add chicken breasts and cook 4-5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C). Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
- In the same skillet, lower heat to medium, add minced garlic and sliced sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté 1 minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in dried thyme (or Italian seasoning) and red pepper flakes.
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping any brown bits from the bottom of the pan, then allow to simmer for 2 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer 3-5 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Sauce
- Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 6-8 minutes, or until chicken is warmed through and sauce is creamy.
- Stir in fresh basil before serving.
Notes for the Best Marry Me Chicken (In Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)
- For maximum flavor, use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes as they add richness to the sauce (Bon Appétit Guide to Sun-Dried Tomatoes).
- If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or pasta water to adjust the consistency.
- Double the sauce ingredients if you plan to serve with lots of pasta or rice!
Marry Me Chicken Variations
- Mushroom Version: Add 1 cup sliced mushrooms to the pan with sun-dried tomatoes.
- Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to amp up the heat.
- Lighter Option: Use half-and-half or whole milk in place of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
Required Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Meat thermometer
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Storage Instructions for Marry Me Chicken
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
- Not recommended for freezing, as the cream sauce may separate.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings for Marry Me Chicken (In Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)
- Serve over fettuccine, spaghetti, or orzo for a classic Italian-style meal.
- Pair with mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or steamed rice for extra comfort.
- Add a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad to round out your dinner.
Pro Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken (In Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)
- For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check doneness (165°F/74°C).
- Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoother and adds more flavor than pre-shredded varieties. (Serious Eats: Cheese Grating Guide)
- Don’t crowd the pan when searing chicken—work in batches if necessary for golden, juicy results.
FAQ: Marry Me Chicken (In Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless thighs work just as well and add extra juiciness. Just adjust cooking time by a few minutes. - How can I make this dairy-free?
Use full-fat coconut milk and vegan Parmesan cheese alternatives for a creamy, dairy-free version.
Learn more about dairy-free swaps here: Dairy-Free Cooking Guide. - Is Marry Me Chicken kid-friendly?
Yes! Omit the red pepper flakes for a milder taste perfect for kids and picky eaters.
This Marry Me Chicken (In Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce) will quickly become a go-to recipe for special occasions or easy weeknights alike. Give it a try, and savor every creamy, savory bite!