The Original Marry Me Chicken: A Love-Affair on Your Plate

Last Updated on February 13, 2026 by Sebastian Recipes Team

There s something absolutely enchanting about the scent of garlic and thyme sizzling in a pan, especially when it mingles with the richness of cream and the savory notes of sun-dried tomatoes. This is exactly how I discovered the magic of The Original Marry Me Chicken. It all started when I was preparing for a casual weeknight dinner, searching for a dish that could please both my picky family and my taste for something gourmet.

What I stumbled upon was not just a meal; it was a ticket to culinary bliss! Juicy, golden-brown chicken breasts enveloped in a luscious sauce worked wonders at the dinner table, leaving everyone asking for seconds and maybe even proposing! Whether you re winding down after a long day or setting the mood for a romantic evening, this quick yet indulgent dish promises to deliver pure comfort in every bite. Let s dive into creating this unforgettable chicken dinner that s sure to impress!

Why Is The Original Marry Me Chicken Irresistible?

Flavor Explosion: The Original Marry Me Chicken features a delicious blend of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs that create an irresistible sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Quick and Easy: In just under 30 minutes, you can whip up this dish, making it a perfect option for those busy weeknights or spontaneous dinner parties.

Family-Friendly Appeal: With rich, creamy goodness, it s a surefire hit among both kids and adults, transforming even the pickiest eaters into fans!

Gourmet Touch: Elevate your dinner experience with this gourmet entrée that feels fancy yet is simple enough for any home cook to master.

Versatile Options: You can customize it with substitutions and variations, like adding mushrooms or changing up the veggies, making it adaptable to your family s tastes.

The Original Marry Me Chicken Ingredients

For the Sauce
Extra-virgin olive oil Essential for searing the chicken and enhancing the dish s rich flavor.
Low-sodium chicken broth Adds moisture and depth; opt for vegetable broth for a lighter sauce.
Heavy cream Creates a decadent, creamy sauce that embraces the chicken; half-and-half or dairy-free cream are great alternatives.
Finely grated Parmesan cheese Infuses an umami flavor that complements the creaminess; nutritional yeast works well for a dairy-free option.

For the Chicken
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts The star of the dish; can be swapped with chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
Kosher salt Enhances the chicken s overall flavor; adjust according to taste preferences.
Freshly ground black pepper A key seasoning that adds depth; tweak to your liking.

For the Flavoring
Garlic cloves, finely chopped Brings aromatic brightness to the sauce; garlic powder can substitute if needed.
Fresh thyme leaves Provides a lovely herby note; use dried thyme for convenience (just adjust the amount).
Crushed red pepper flakes For a hint of heat; tailor the quantity based on your spice tolerance.
Finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes Adds sweetness and texture to the dish; fire-roasted or diced tomatoes can also work.

For Garnishing
Torn fresh basil Offers a refreshing burst when sprinkled on top; can be omitted if unavailable.

Dive into creating The Original Marry Me Chicken with these carefully selected ingredients, and watch your dinner guests fall in love at first bite!

How to Make The Original Marry Me Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 400 °F (200 °C). This will ensure a perfectly cooked chicken that s tender and juicy.

2. Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.

3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the finely chopped garlic and fresh thyme, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until aromatic.

4. Pour in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Add the finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it reduce slightly, about 3-5 minutes, until it thickens.

5. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over it. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165 °F).

6. Serve hot, garnished with torn fresh basil for a burst of freshness and color. Enjoy as your family swoons over this delicious dish!

Optional: Serve with a side of garlic bread for a truly comforting meal.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These make ahead options for The Original Marry Me Chicken are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen. You can prepare the sauce (olive oil, garlic, thyme, broth, cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan) up to 3 days in advance; just refrigerate it in an airtight container. To maintain its delicious quality, be sure to reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if necessary to regain that creamy consistency. When you re ready to serve, simply sear the chicken, return it to the skillet with the reheated sauce, and bake until cooked through. This way, you ll have a restaurant-quality dish ready with minimal effort!

Storage Tips for The Original Marry Me Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors locked in while maintaining the rich creaminess of the sauce.

Freezer: If you want to prolong its life, freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to restore the sauce s creaminess and prevent it from thickening too much.

Serving Suggestions: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but with proper storage, The Original Marry Me Chicken can still capture hearts and taste buds upon reheating!

What to Serve with The Original Marry Me Chicken?

Enhance your dining experience with delightful pairings that complement the rich flavors of this creamy chicken dish.

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic harmonize beautifully with the sauce, soaking up every delicious bite.

• Steamed Broccoli: This crisp vegetable adds a refreshing contrast and vibrant color to your plate, balancing the dish s richness.

• Pasta Aglio e Olio: Lightly tossed in garlic and olive oil, it s a perfect pairing that won t overshadow the chicken s flavors. The simplicity lets the chicken shine.

• Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a crunchy texture and bright flavors, cutting through the dish s creamy goodness.

• Roasted Asparagus: Slightly charred, this earthy green vegetable pairs wonderfully, adding a delightful crunch and subtle sweetness.

• Crusty Garlic Bread: A must-have for mopping up the luscious cream sauce, this warm and toasty side is comforting and delightful.

• Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay complements the dish s richness and enhances the meal s elegant vibe.

These pairings not only provide variety but also elevate the dining experience, making every meal a special occasion!

Expert Tips for The Original Marry Me Chicken

• Sear Well: Ensure your chicken is seared on both sides until golden brown. This step locks in moisture and amplifies flavor, making every bite irresistible.

• Sauce Thickness: For a richer, thicker sauce, consider using a 1:1 ratio of heavy cream to broth and double the Parmesan. This will elevate the creaminess significantly.

• Season to Taste: Don t be afraid to adjust the salt and pepper according to your family s preference. The balance in The Original Marry Me Chicken is key to achieving that perfect bite!

• Fresh Herbs: If available, always use fresh thyme and basil. Their vibrant flavors dramatically enhance the dish; however, if not, dried herbs can work in a pinch.

• Oven Timing: Keep an eye on the chicken in the oven. Using an instant-read thermometer is a foolproof way to ensure the chicken reaches 165 °F without overcooking.

Marry Me Chicken Variations

Customize this exquisite dish and explore new flavor realms to keep dinner exciting and fresh!

• Chicken Thighs: Swap boneless breasts with thighs for juicier and more flavorful meat.

• Dairy-Free Cream: Use coconut cream or almond milk for those looking to make this dish dairy-free without losing richness.

• Veggie Boost: Toss in spinach or kale for added nutrition and vibrant color in the sauce.

• Mushroom Medley: Introduce sliced mushrooms to the sauté for a lovely earthy note, enhancing the sauce s depth.

• Roasted Red Peppers: Replace sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a sweet, smoky twist that s simply delightful.

• Gluten-Free Option: Pair the chicken over quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of pasta, making this dish gluten-friendly.

• Spice It Up: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for heat, perfect for those who love a fiery kick.

• Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh oregano or rosemary in place of thyme for a unique herby flavor that elevates the dish.

Embrace these variations to delight your family and friends sometimes with familiar comfort and at other times with exciting twists!

The Original Marry Me Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken for The Original Marry Me Chicken?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are fresh and free of any dark spots. If you prefer juiciness, chicken thighs are an excellent option as they tend to retain more moisture when cooked.

What s the best way to store leftovers of The Original Marry Me Chicken?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the dish fresh while maintaining the delicious creamy sauce. Just be sure to let it cool before sealing to avoid excess moisture buildup.

Can I freeze The Original Marry Me Chicken?
Yes, you can definitely freeze it! Place the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container and it will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture and flavor.

What should I do if the sauce turns out too thick when reheating?
Very! If your sauce thickens upon reheating, simply add a splash of water or broth in a skillet over low heat. Stir gently until the sauce returns to its creamy consistency. This little trick works wonders!

Is The Original Marry Me Chicken safe for people with dietary restrictions?
While the recipe contains common allergens like dairy and chicken, you can make adjustments for dietary needs. For dairy-free options, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. Always check for allergies as ingredients can vary.

What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes in The Original Marry Me Chicken?
If you re looking for an alternative to sun-dried tomatoes, try using fire-roasted or even diced canned tomatoes. These options will provide a lovely flavor impact while adding some juicy texture to the dish.