When you need a dependable dinner that feels special without being complicated, Marry Me Chicken delivers every time. This recipe pairs juicy chicken breasts with a rich parmesan cream sauce, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil for a dish that tastes restaurant-worthy but fits right into a busy weeknight. It cooks in under an hour, uses familiar ingredients, and always draws compliments. Whether you cook for family or guests, this is one chicken dinner that earns repeat requests and a permanent spot in your rotation.
Story
I first made Marry Me Chicken for a casual weekend dinner, expecting leftovers for the next day. Instead, every bite disappeared straight from the skillet. The combination of tender chicken and a silky parmesan cream sauce felt indulgent yet balanced, thanks to the brightness of sun-dried tomatoes and basil. Since then, Marry Me Chicken has become my go-to recipe whenever I need a dependable, comforting meal that still feels impressive. It works just as well for a quiet night at home as it does for serving guests, and Marry Me Chicken never fails to bring people back to the table.
Ingredients
For the chicken and sauce, gather these ingredients before you start so the cooking process stays smooth and relaxed.
• 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream, room temperature
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil and drained
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Fresh basil, chiffonaded, for serving
• Extra grated Parmesan, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Ingredients
Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts, then pound them gently until they reach an even thickness. This step helps the chicken cook evenly and stay juicy. Pat each piece dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper so the flavor carries through the entire dish.
Cooking Instructions
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil once the pan feels warm. When the oil shimmers, sear the chicken breasts for three to four minutes per side until lightly golden, then transfer them to a plate. Lower the heat slightly, melt the butter in the same skillet, and whisk in chicken broth, cream, Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the sauce thickens, return the chicken to the skillet, and let everything simmer until the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature and the sauce coats each piece beautifully.
Tips for Perfect Results
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing the chicken, since crowded chicken steams instead of browns. Skipping the pounding step can also cause uneven cooking, leaving some pieces dry while others stay underdone. Finally, keep the heat moderate once the cream enters the pan to prevent the sauce from breaking.
Pro Tips for Better Flavor
Use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-shredded cheese for a smoother sauce and cleaner taste. Let the cream reach room temperature before adding it to the skillet to help it blend easily. For extra depth, finish the dish with a small knob of butter stirred in just before serving.
Serving and Storage
How to Serve
Serve this chicken breast dinner over pasta, mashed potatoes, or fluffy rice so the sauce has something to cling to. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables make excellent sides, while extra basil and Parmesan add freshness and texture at the table.
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid high heat during reheating to keep the sauce smooth.
Conclusion
If you want a reliable recipe that feels comforting, rich, and celebratory all at once, this crowd-pleaser belongs in your kitchen. The balance of creamy sauce, savory chicken, and bright herbs makes it unforgettable. Try it once, and you will understand why this dish keeps earning its romantic name.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and sear the chicken earlier in the day, then finish simmering everything together just before serving. This approach saves time while keeping the chicken tender and the sauce fresh.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless thighs work well and add extra richness. Adjust cooking time slightly, since thighs may need a few extra minutes to cook through.
Is this recipe spicy?
The red pepper flakes add gentle warmth rather than strong heat. You can reduce or omit them for a milder dish, or add more if you enjoy a bolder kick.
Print
Marry Me Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Juicy chicken breasts cooked in a rich parmesan cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil, perfect for an easy yet impressive dinner.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Fresh basil, chiffonaded, for serving
- Extra grated Parmesan, for serving
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from chicken breasts and pound to even thickness
- Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet and sear chicken until golden on both sides, then remove
- Lower heat, add butter, and whisk in chicken broth, cream, Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes
- Return chicken to skillet and simmer until cooked through and sauce thickens
Notes
- Pound chicken evenly to prevent dry spots
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smooth sauce
- Reheat leftovers gently over low heat
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 48g
- Cholesterol: 185mg