I’ve cooked up a creamy, savory dish known as Marry Me Chicken—pan-seared chicken simmered in a sun-dried tomato cream sauce that’s rich, flavorful, and absolutely unforgettable. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a love letter in dinner form.

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love this dish because it’s indulgent yet surprisingly easy to make. The creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce is infused with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs, wrapping each bite of juicy chicken in warmth and depth. It’s a restaurant-worthy meal that comes together in one pan and feels like a special occasion—even on a weeknight.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
olive oil
garlic, minced
sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), chopped
heavy cream
chicken broth
grated Parmesan cheese
Italian seasoning or dried thyme and oregano
salt and black pepper
red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

directions

Sear the chicken:
I season the chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, I heat olive oil and sear the chicken for about 4–5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. I transfer it to a plate and keep it warm.
Make the sauce:
In the same skillet, I sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds, then stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes. I pour in chicken broth and let it reduce slightly, then add the cream, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
Simmer and return chicken:
I let the sauce simmer gently until thickened, about 3–5 minutes. Then I return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top and letting it simmer another few minutes to absorb flavor.
Garnish and serve:
Just before serving, I sprinkle fresh basil or parsley over the top. I serve it hot, with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up every drop of sauce.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: ~10 minutes
Cook time: ~20 minutes
Total time: Around 30 minutes

Variations

I use chicken thighs for a richer, juicier version.
I swap cream for half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free option.
I stir in spinach or kale at the end for added greens.
I add a splash of white wine to the sauce for more depth.
I sprinkle crispy bacon or pancetta over the top for smoky crunch.

storage/reheating

Refrigeration: I store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: I reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Microwave works too, but I stir midway to keep the sauce from breaking.
Freezing: I freeze the chicken and sauce in a sealed container for up to 2 months. I thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes—I warm sliced pre-cooked chicken in the sauce. It won’t absorb as much flavor but still turns out delicious.

Is this spicy?

Only slightly, thanks to red pepper flakes. I adjust or omit them based on preference for heat.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes—I cook and store the chicken and sauce separately, then reheat and combine just before serving to keep everything fresh and saucy.

What sides go best with it?

I love serving it with pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or garlic bread—anything that can soak up the sauce.

What cheese works best?

Parmesan is classic, but I sometimes mix in asiago or Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor twist.

Conclusion

I adore Marry Me Chicken because it feels luxurious and comforting without being complicated. With its creamy sun-dried tomato sauce and perfectly seared chicken, it’s a dinner that always wins hearts—mine included. Whether it’s a date night or a cozy family meal, this dish never fails to impress.