Marry Me Chicken with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce is a dish that’s full of rich flavors and creamy goodness. The tender chicken breasts are smothered in a luscious sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes, cream, garlic, and a touch of herbs. It’s hearty but still feels special, perfect for when you want a comforting meal that looks and tastes fancy without too much fuss.
I love making this recipe because the sauce comes together so quickly and has just the right balance of tangy sun-dried tomatoes and smooth creaminess. One little trick I’ve learned is to let the chicken cook gently in the sauce so it soaks up all those delicious flavors. It always surprises me how a simple dish can taste so indulgent in the best way.
My favorite way to serve Marry Me Chicken is over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to catch every drop of that amazing sauce. It also pairs nicely with some steamed greens or a simple salad to lighten things up. Whenever I bring this to the table, people ask for seconds, and honestly, I don’t blame them—it’s just that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts keeps the dish tender and easy to eat. If you prefer dark meat, thighs are a great alternative—they stay juicy and add more flavor.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes bring intense, tangy flavor and a chewy texture. If you only have dry-packed, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before chopping.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and silky. For a lighter version, try half-and-half or coconut cream (if dairy-free), but the sauce may be a bit thinner.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoothly into the sauce and adds a nutty taste. You can substitute with Pecorino Romano or Asiago if you like a sharper flavor.
Fresh Basil: Adds a fresh, herbal note that balances the rich sauce. If fresh basil isn’t available, a small sprinkle of dried basil or Italian seasoning will still work.
How Do You Get Tender, Juicy Chicken Every Time?
Searing and simmering the chicken properly is key. Here’s how I do it:
- Season well: Salt enhances the chicken’s natural flavor and helps with browning.
- Preheat the pan: Heat oil in the skillet until shimmering before adding chicken for a flavorful crust.
- Sear without moving: Let the chicken cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes per side to develop a golden crust.
- Simmer gently in sauce: After searing, reduce heat, cover, and let the chicken finish cooking in the creamy sauce. This keeps it moist and infuses the flavors.
Patience here pays off with juicy, flavorful chicken that melts in your mouth.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for searing chicken and simmering the sauce all in one pan.
- Tongs – make flipping the chicken easy without piercing the meat and losing juices.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring the sauce without scratching your pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons – help keep flavors balanced and portions right.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for chopping garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil quickly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs for a juicier, more flavorful dish.
- Add sliced mushrooms to the sauce for earthiness and extra texture.
- Stir in a handful of spinach or kale just before serving to add a fresh, healthy touch.
- Use goat cheese instead of Parmesan for a tangy, creamy twist on the sauce.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed preferred, drained)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced (plus extra for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 20 minutes to cook, totaling approximately 30 minutes. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Sear the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear it until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Make the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until you smell its aroma. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you like a little spice. Stir everything together and cook for 1-2 minutes to let the flavors blend.
3. Add Cream, Cheese & Simmer the Chicken:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to loosen any browned bits from the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to thicken for about 3-4 minutes. Place the chicken breasts back into the skillet, spoon some sauce over them, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 5-8 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Finish and Serve:
Just before serving, stir in the fresh basil for a bright, fresh flavor. Serve your chicken smothered with the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce and garnish with extra basil if you like. This dish goes wonderfully with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes to soak up all that delicious sauce.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. The best way is to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. This ensures even cooking and helps prevent extra moisture in the pan.
How Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free creamer, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor. Keep in mind the sauce may have a slightly different taste and texture.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and sauce, then cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce if needed.
What Are Good Side Dishes to Serve with Marry Me Chicken?
This creamy chicken pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. A crisp green salad is also a great way to balance the richness of the sauce.
