Marry Me Chicken Recipe (Creamy One-Pan Dinner)

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s rich, comforting, and surprisingly easy to make, Marry Me Chicken deserves a place on your menu. This popular one-pan recipe features tender chicken breasts simmered in a creamy garlic parmesan sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and Italian herbs. The result is a restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners but impressive enough for guests.

Despite its name, the recipe is simple and uses everyday ingredients. Everything comes together in one skillet, which means less cleanup and more flavor. The chicken develops a golden crust before finishing in a creamy sauce that’s perfect for spooning over Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, or fluffy rice.

The balance of savory parmesan, garlic, herbs, and the slightly sweet tang of sun-dried tomatoes makes every bite rich without feeling heavy. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a special dinner, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan recipe with easy cleanup
• Rich, creamy garlic parmesan sauce
• Ready in about 35 minutes
• Family-friendly and beginner-friendly
• Perfect for weeknight dinners or date nights
• Great with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes
• Leftovers reheat beautifully

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ¾ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Ingredient Notes

• Chicken breasts: Slice very thick breasts in half horizontally so they cook evenly.
• Parmesan: Freshly grated parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Oil-packed tomatoes add the best flavor. Drain excess oil before using.
• Heavy cream: Creates a smooth, rich sauce that won’t easily curdle.

Equipment

• Wooden spoon
• Large skillet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs

Instructions

Step 1 – Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.

Step 2 – Sear

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown. It doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet.

Transfer the chicken to a plate.

Step 3 – Make the Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium.

Add butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the heavy cream, parmesan cheese, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and sun-dried tomatoes. Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce begins to thicken.

Step 4 – Finish Cooking

Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over each piece.

Cover and simmer for 8–10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) according to the USDA.

Stir in the fresh basil just before serving and garnish with chopped parsley.

Pro Tips

• Pat the chicken dry before cooking to help it brown.
• Don’t boil the cream sauce; keep it at a gentle simmer.
• Use freshly grated parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
• Taste the sauce before adding extra salt, as parmesan is naturally salty.

Common Mistakes

Overcrowding the Pan

Cook in batches if needed so the chicken browns instead of steams.

Using High Heat for the Sauce

High heat can cause dairy-based sauces to separate.

Overcooking the Chicken

Use a meat thermometer if possible. Chicken is done at 165°F (74°C).

Variations

• Add fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Replace chicken breasts with boneless chicken thighs.
• Stir in sliced mushrooms for extra flavor.
• Add cooked bacon pieces for a smoky twist.

What to Serve With Marry Me Chicken

• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Fettuccine or linguine
• Buttered rice
• Roasted broccoli
• Steamed asparagus
• Caesar salad
• Crusty artisan bread

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freeze for up to 2 months, though the cream sauce may separate slightly when thawed.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freeze for up to 2 months, though the cream sauce may separate slightly when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken combines juicy pan-seared chicken with a creamy garlic parmesan sauce that’s rich, comforting, and easy to make. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a meal for guests, this one-pan recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Pair it with your favorite side dish, and you’ll have a dinner that’s sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation.

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love our Garlic Butter Chicken Bites and Easy Chicken Tacos.

Marry Me Chicken

Juicy chicken breasts cooked in a creamy garlic parmesan sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs. An easy one-pan dinner that's perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 people

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 545

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Chicken

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp paprika
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 garlic cloves minced
• ¾ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs
• Wooden spoon

Method

 

1. Season the chicken.
2. Sear until golden.
3. Remove from the skillet.
4. Make the garlic parmesan sauce.
5. Return the chicken to the pan.
6. Simmer until cooked through.
7. Garnish with basil and parsley.
8. Serve warm.

Notes

• Freshly grated parmesan melts best.
• Simmer the sauce gently to keep it smooth.
• Serve with pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice.