<!--
SEO Title Tag: Marry Me Chicken: Creamy Skillet Recipe You’ll Love
Meta Description: Try this Marry Me Chicken recipe for a creamy, flavorful dish that brings romance to your dinner table. Perfect for any home cook!
-->

Marry Me Chicken: Creamy Skillet Recipe

Imagine biting into a tender chicken breast, drenched in a creamy, savory sauce that sings with garlic and herbs. This Marry Me Chicken recipe is not just a dish; it’s a meal that brings a smile to your family table. Originating from a popular internet phenomenon, this creamy skillet creation has made its way into many hearts—and stomachs! After testing this recipe multiple times to get the flavors just right, I can confidently say this is the version you won’t want to miss. So, let’s get cooking!

Why This Recipe Works

Flavor Balance: The combination of cream, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a complex yet comforting flavor profile.
Quick and Easy: With a total time of just about 30 minutes, this dish fits perfectly into busy weeknights.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily modify the recipe based on what you have at home or to suit dietary needs.
One-Pan Cooking: Less cleanup is always a plus; everything happens in one skillet!

Ingredients Breakdown

4 (150 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The main protein; tender and juicy when cooked correctly.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning; always taste as you go.
2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil: Helps brown the chicken and adds rich flavor.
4 cloves garlic (minced): Packs a punch of flavor and aroma.
1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth: Provides moisture and depth to the sauce; homemade or store-bought works.
1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream: Adds creaminess; you can use half-and-half for a lighter version, but expect a less rich sauce.
½ cup (75 g) sun-dried tomatoes (chopped): Adds sweetness and tang; opt for oil-packed for extra flavor.
1 teaspoon (5 g) Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the dish’s flavor.
Fresh basil (for garnish): Brings freshness and color to the finished dish; dried basil can substitute but lacks vibrancy.

Essential Equipment

Large skillet (12-inch): Choose one that conducts heat well for even cooking.
Meat thermometer: Ensures chicken is perfectly cooked—ideal temperature is 74°C (165°F).
Cutting board and knife: Necessary for prepping ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Use about ½ teaspoon of each. This step builds the base flavor for the dish.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 5–7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (74°C / 165°F). Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. This step enhances the flavor without burning the garlic.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and stir to deglaze the skillet, scraping any brown bits from the bottom. Add the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the chicken to the skillet. Let it simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot. This dish pairs beautifully with pasta or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

Expert Tips & Pro Techniques

Don’t crowd the pan: Cook chicken in batches if your skillet is too small; otherwise, it won’t sear properly.
Adjust the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it a bit longer, or mix in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water).
Make-ahead option: Prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before adding cooked chicken.
Avoid dryness: Chicken can become dry if overcooked; use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect cooking.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the chicken is cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezer: This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the cream sauce, which can separate. If necessary, freeze cooked chicken separately.

Reheating: Reheat in a 175°C (350°F) oven for 10–12 minutes. To keep the sauce creamy, cover the skillet with a lid or foil while reheating.

Variations & Substitutions

Keto Version: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and serve over zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta.
Vegetarian Option: Use cooked mushrooms and firm tofu instead of chicken for a satisfying meatless meal.
Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the garlic sauté for a spicy note that complements the dish.
Herb-Infused: Use fresh thyme or rosemary instead of Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Serve with a side of garlic bread or over a bed of spinach.
Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc for an added touch of elegance.
For a hearty meal, consider a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

Nutrition Information

Per serving (1 chicken breast with sauce):

Calories: 524
Total Fat: 38 g
Saturated Fat: 22 g
Cholesterol: 162 mg
Sodium: 932 mg
Total Carbohydrates: 9 g
Dietary Fiber: 1 g
Sugars: 1 g
Protein: 48 g

Nutrition values are estimates. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did my Marry Me Chicken turn out dry?
Make sure to monitor the cooking time with a thermometer. Overcooking the chicken is the main reason it becomes dry.

Can I make this without chicken?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with firm tofu or a mixture of your favorite vegetables for a vegetarian option.

Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure your skillet is large enough, or cook in batches for even cooking.

Can I prepare this the night before?
You can prepare the sauce ahead of time, but add the chicken close to serving to keep it juicy.

How long does this keep in the fridge?
Stored correctly in an airtight container, it will last up to 3 days in the fridge.