This Marry Me Chicken Dip is creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and a hint of sun-dried tomatoes that give it just the right kick. It’s the kind of dip that grabs your attention right away with its rich flavors and smooth texture, making it perfect for parties or cozy nights in.
I love making this dip because it’s easy to whip up and always gets everyone asking for the recipe. I usually bake it until it’s bubbly and golden on top, then serve it warm so every bite feels comforting and satisfying. One tip I’ve learned: don’t skip the sun-dried tomatoes—they really bring this dish to life!
My favorite way to enjoy Marry Me Chicken Dip is with crunchy pita chips or fresh veggies on the side, but it’s also great spooned over crackers or even as a hearty sandwich spread. It’s the kind of snack that feels special but isn’t fussy, and it never fails to bring people together around the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken
- Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor. You can also use leftover roasted or grilled chicken for convenience.
- Cream Cheese
- This makes the dip rich and smooth. If you want a lighter version, try using Neufchâtel cheese or a mix of Greek yogurt and cream cheese.
- Sun
- Dried Tomatoes: They add a tangy sweetness that really lifts the dip. If you don’t have these, chopped roasted red peppers make a nice substitute.
- Cheese
- Mozzarella adds gooey meltiness, and Parmesan brings a sharp bite. Feel free to swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack or cheddar if preferred.
- Mayonnaise
- It helps keep the dip creamy and moist. You could switch it with Greek yogurt for a fresher taste.
- Fresh Basil
- Basil gives freshness and color. If unavailable, try fresh parsley or oregano instead—they still add that herby touch.
How Do You Get a Smooth and Creamy Dip That Bakes Perfectly?
Mixing and baking this dip right is key for great texture and flavor. Here’s what works best:
- Soften the cream cheese before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Use room temperature mayonnaise and cheeses to help everything blend smoothly.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly until you have a uniform, creamy consistency.
- Spread the mixture evenly in your baking dish for consistent baking.
- Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden—this ensures the cheese melts perfectly without drying out.
Once baked, let it cool slightly so it thickens a bit but still stays warm and scoopable. This dip pairs wonderfully with crunchy dippers like toasted baguette slices or fresh veggies.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking dish (8-inch round or similar) – perfect size for even cooking and easy serving.
- Mixing bowl – a large one helps you combine all ingredients smoothly without spills.
- Spoon or spatula – great for stirring and spreading the dip evenly in the dish.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your ingredient amounts just right.
- Oven mitts – for safely handling the hot baking dish when you take it out of the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky, crispy twist that pairs well with the creamy dip.
- Swap sun-dried tomatoes for chopped roasted red peppers for a milder, sweeter flavor.
- Mix in chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for some extra heat if you like it spicy.
- Stir in chopped spinach or artichoke hearts to boost the veggie content and add texture.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup jarred sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (drained if packed in oil)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Baguette slices, pita chips, or fresh vegetable sticks for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. So, in around 30-35 minutes, you’ll have a warm, cheesy, flavorful dip ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Mix
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the Flavor
Stir in the shredded chicken, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little spice. Season with salt and pepper to your taste, mixing everything well.
3. Bake the Dip
Transfer the mixture into an 8-inch round baking dish or one of similar size. Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the dip is bubbling and lightly golden on top.
4. Garnish and Serve
Take the dip out of the oven and sprinkle some fresh basil on top for color and freshness. Serve it warm with baguette slices, pita chips, or fresh veggies for a tasty, crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Dip?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken before shredding it. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave for quicker preparation.
Can I Prepare This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can mix all the ingredients and store the dip in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, bake as instructed and serve warm.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warm and bubbly.
What Can I Use Instead of Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, chopped roasted red peppers are a great substitute that will add a mild sweetness and vibrant color.