| |

Creamy Marry Me Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving a dinner that’s rich, comforting, and guaranteed to impress, then you’ve got to try this Creamy Marry Me Chicken Recipe. I absolutely love how this turns out every time — tender chicken bathed in a luscious, herb-infused cream sauce with a little kick from chili flakes. When I first tried this recipe, I was hooked instantly, and now it’s a go-to for weeknight meals and special occasions alike. Stick with me, and you’ll find that this dish is not only delicious but surprisingly easy to make right at home.

❤️

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Incredibly Creamy Sauce: The combination of heavy cream, Parmesan, and chicken broth creates a silky, indulgent sauce that clings perfectly to every bite.
  • Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: You don’t need a pantry full of fancy items—each ingredient works together beautifully for a restaurant-quality taste.
  • Quick and Easy To Prepare: From start to finish, this recipe comes together in about 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
  • Perfectly Balanced Heat: Just the right amount of chili flakes adds warmth without overpowering the creamy sauce or tender chicken.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Creamy Marry Me Chicken Recipe is in its harmony of simple pantry staples and fresh touches. Each ingredient has a role that brings out maximum flavor and creaminess, so don’t rush substitutions—though I’ll share some tweaks later!

Flat lay of three large boneless skinless chicken breasts sliced lengthwise into thin cutlets, a small mound of all-purpose flour on a simple white ceramic plate, two whole brown eggs with clean shells, three fresh garlic cloves unpeeled, a small white bowl of golden olive oil, a small white bowl of unsalted butter chunks, a small white bowl of pale chicken stock, a small white bowl of heavy cream, a small white bowl filled with grated parmesan cheese, a small white bowl containing bright red chopped sundried tomatoes, a small white bowl of vibrant fresh basil leaves, sprinkled dried chili flakes, dried oregano and dried thyme arranged symmetrically on the white surface, all ingredients fresh and natural, no packaging or utensils, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997 - Creamy Marry Me Chicken, Creamy Marry Me Chicken recipe, easy creamy chicken dinner, indulgent chicken dishes, best comfort food recipes
  • Chicken Breasts: I prefer boneless, skinless cutlets sliced thin for even cooking and tender texture.
  • Salt and Black Pepper: Basic seasoning that’s essential to enhance the flavors throughout the dish.
  • All-Purpose Flour: This helps create a lovely crust on the chicken and thickens the sauce.
  • Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil ensures a nice sear and flavor without overpowering the sauce.
  • Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps create a beautiful sauce base.
  • Garlic: Freshly minced for that irresistible aroma and gentle pungency.
  • Chicken Stock: The foundation of the sauce providing depth and savory notes.
  • Heavy Cream (Double Cream): This is what makes the sauce silky and indulgent.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh, it adds a wonderful nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
  • Chili Flakes: Balances the creaminess with a mild heat.
  • Oregano and Thyme: Classic Italian herbs that bring freshness and earthiness.
  • Sundried Tomatoes: Chopped for a burst of tangy sweetness and chewy texture.
  • Fresh Basil Leaves: Used as garnish, they add a pop of vibrant herbaceous flavor.
📝
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

This Creamy Marry Me Chicken Recipe can be a canvas for your creativity—over time, I’ve enjoyed tweaking it based on what’s in my fridge or my mood. Feel free to make it your own!

  • Make it spicy: I once doubled the chili flakes for a fiery kick that my family loved, but be cautious if you’re sensitive to heat.
  • Dairy-free version: Swap heavy cream for coconut cream and Parmesan for nutritional yeast; the flavor profile shifts but it still tastes rich and comforting.
  • Veggie boost: Add mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for added texture and nutrients—I often toss in baby spinach right at the end.
  • Herb variations: Fresh thyme or rosemary works beautifully in place of oregano and thyme if you want a different herbal touch.

How to Make Creamy Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Start by slicing your chicken breasts lengthwise into thin cutlets. This is a game changer because thinner pieces cook faster and more evenly, giving you juicy chicken without the dry edges. Season both sides with salt and pepper, then dredge them in flour—shake off any excess so your sauce doesn’t get too thick.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat until the butter melts and the pan is evenly coated. Carefully place the chicken cutlets without overcrowding—you may need to cook in batches. Cook each side for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. This browning not only seals in juices but adds amazing flavor to your sauce later. Once cooked, transfer to a plate, cover with foil, and set aside.

Step 3: Build Your Flavorful Sauce

In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about a minute until fragrant—don’t let it burn or it’ll turn bitter! Next, pour in the chicken stock and scrape the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. This step, called deglazing, lifts all those tasty browned bits into your sauce. Lower the heat to medium-low, then stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan. Let the sauce gently simmer for a few minutes to thicken and develop flavor.

Step 4: Season, Add Sundried Tomatoes, and Simmer Chicken

Now toss in the chili flakes, oregano, and thyme to infuse the sauce with herbaceous warmth and subtle heat. Add salt and pepper to taste, then mix in the chopped sundried tomatoes – these little bursts of tangy sweetness add amazing complexity. Return the chicken cutlets to the pan, spooning sauce over them, and let everything simmer together for a few minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens up perfectly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finish by sprinkling fresh chopped basil over the top. This bright herbal note cuts through the richness and makes the dish feel fresh and satisfying. Serve warm over your favorite pasta or fluffy rice, and get ready for compliments—you’re officially in the “best chicken dinner” club!

👨‍🍳

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Marry Me Chicken Recipe

  • Slice Evenly: Take your time slicing the chicken breasts evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate and stay juicy.
  • Don’t Skip Deglazing: This step is non-negotiable — it picks up all those tasty browned bits and builds your sauce’s depth.
  • Adjust Heat Gradually: Simmer your sauce on medium-low to prevent curdling and allow gentle thickening.
  • Add Sundried Tomatoes Carefully: Chop them finely and add toward the end to keep their tangy flavor vibrant, not overpowering.

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Chicken Recipe

The image shows a close-up of two thick pieces of cooked chicken stacked with creamy sauce on top and around them. The chicken is light brown with a slightly crispy texture on the outside and white inside. The creamy sauce is light yellow with visible chunks of red sun-dried tomatoes and small green herbs mixed in, giving it a rich and textured look. The layers show the thick sauce covering the entire surface of the chicken pieces, with some sauce pooling at the bottom. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Creamy Marry Me Chicken, Creamy Marry Me Chicken recipe, easy creamy chicken dinner, indulgent chicken dishes, best comfort food recipes

Garnishes

I love finishing this meal with fresh basil leaves because they add a lovely pop of green and a subtle freshness that balances the creaminess. Sometimes, I toss on a bit of extra grated Parmesan or a few more chili flakes for a personal touch.

Side Dishes

This creamy chicken pairs perfectly with simple buttered pasta, garlic mashed potatoes, or fluffy white rice to soak up every drop of that heavenly sauce. For veggies, I like to serve steamed green beans or a crisp arugula salad on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special dinner, I’ve plated the chicken over creamy polenta with a drizzle of extra sauce and garnished with basil and sundried tomato slices on top. It’s an effortless way to make the meal feel fancy without any extra fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After dinner, I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and consume them within 2-3 days. The sauce thickens as it rests, so just give it a good stir when reheating.

Freezing

I recommend freezing the chicken and sauce separately if possible, in portions. This way, you prevent the texture from becoming mushy. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of cream or stock if the sauce has thickened too much. This keeps the sauce silky and the chicken tender.

FAQs

  1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this Creamy Marry Me Chicken Recipe?

    Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great and tend to stay juicy and flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time slightly—they may take a bit longer to cook through compared to thinly sliced breasts. Keep an eye on the internal temperature to ensure they’re done.

  2. Is this recipe gluten-free if I want to avoid flour?

    You can make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for dredging the chicken. Just be sure to shake off excess to avoid thickening the sauce too much or making it gummy.

  3. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

    Yes! You can make the sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to eat, gently reheat and add the cooked chicken before serving to keep everything fresh and delicious.

  4. What’s the best way to reheat Creamy Marry Me Chicken without drying it out?

    Reheat slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently, and add a splash of broth or cream if it feels too thick. Microwave can work in a pinch, but do it in short bursts to avoid drying the chicken.

  5. Can I use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil or dry-packed?

    Both work well! If using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drain them well to avoid extra oil in the sauce. Dry-packed ones can be rehydrated in warm water before chopping if you prefer a softer texture.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Marry Me Chicken Recipe holds a special place in my heart — it’s my little secret weapon for turning ordinary chicken into something crave-worthy and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for a loved one (hint: it’s date-night worthy) or just treating yourself after a long day, I promise this recipe won’t disappoint. Give it a try, and I can’t wait to hear how much your family goes crazy for it too!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Creamy Marry Me Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 108 reviews
  • Author: Jaden
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Marry Me Chicken is a luscious and creamy skillet dish featuring tender chicken cutlets simmered in a rich sauce made with garlic, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, chili flakes, and sun-dried tomatoes, garnished with fresh basil. This flavorful meal pairs beautifully with pasta or rice and is known for its comforting, indulgent taste that’s perfect for a special dinner.


Ingredients

Chicken

  • 3 large chicken breasts (boneless and skinless, sliced lengthwise into thin cutlets)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour

For Cooking

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Sauce

  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup chicken stock
  • 1 cup heavy cream (double cream in the UK)
  • ½ cup parmesan cheese (grated)
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes
  • ¼ teaspoon oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon thyme
  • ⅓ cup sundried tomatoes (chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves


Instructions

  1. Season and Dredge Chicken: Season the chicken cutlets with salt and black pepper. Dredge each piece in the all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess to ensure an even coating.
  2. Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and the pan is evenly coated, add the chicken cutlets in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover to keep warm.
  3. Sauté Garlic and Deglaze: In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about one minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken stock and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits stuck to the pan, deglazing to enrich the sauce.
  4. Add Cream and Cheese: Reduce heat to medium-low, then stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for a couple of minutes, promoting thickening and melding of flavors.
  5. Season the Sauce: Add chili flakes, thyme, and oregano to the sauce, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Incorporate the chopped sundried tomatoes to add depth and richness.
  6. Simmer with Chicken: Return the chicken cutlets to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Let everything simmer together for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the chicken is fully coated and warmed through.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil leaves atop the dish just before serving. Present warm over your choice of pasta or rice for a satisfying meal.

Notes

  • Marry Me Chicken is richly creamy and bursting with flavor, making it a perfect dish to impress at a special dinner.
  • Its name alludes to how delicious and comforting this chicken recipe is – reportedly enough to inspire a proposal!
  • Work in batches when browning the chicken to ensure even cooking and a golden crust.
  • Use fresh herbs and quality parmesan for the best overall flavor in the sauce.
  • Serve immediately with pasta or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 447 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 601 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 13 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 31 g
  • Cholesterol: 147 mg

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star