I first made this dish on an evening when I wanted something comforting but still a little dramatic. The name alone suggests a certain level of expectation, and I was curious whether a single skillet of chicken could really live up to it.

What drew me in was the balance promised by the ingredients: cream and Parmesan for richness, sun-dried tomatoes for depth, and just enough garlic and herbs to keep everything grounded. It felt like the kind of recipe that relied more on restraint than excess.

As it came together, I understood the appeal. The sauce thickened gently, clinging to the chicken without overwhelming it, and the flavors settled into something warm and cohesive. This is not a flashy recipe, but it is confident in what it offers.

Over time, it has become one of those dishes I turn to when I want to serve something that feels thoughtful, generous, and quietly impressive, whether for guests or a simple weeknight dinner.

Why You Will Love This Recipe?

• Creamy, well-balanced sauce with savory depth
• Tender chicken cooked quickly and evenly
• Made in a single skillet for easy cleanup
• Works well for both casual meals and special occasions
• Pairs easily with pasta, rice, or vegetables

Tips You Must Know!

1. Slice chicken evenly to ensure consistent cooking
2. Shake off excess flour to prevent a heavy coating
3. Do not rush the thickening step
4. Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother texture
5. Simmer gently to avoid separating the cream

How To Make the Recipe?

Ingredients

• 3 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin cutlets
• Salt and black pepper
• About 6 tablespoons of all-purpose flour for dredging
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan
• Chili flakes to taste
• A pinch of dried oregano
• A pinch of dried thyme
• 1/3 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• Fresh basil, chopped, for finishing

Instructions

1. Season the chicken cutlets on both sides with salt and black pepper. Lightly dredge each piece in flour, tapping off any excess.
2. Heat the olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the fat is hot, add the chicken in batches and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep warm.
3. Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook briefly for about one minute, stirring until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits.
4. Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Allow the mixture to simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the sauce begins to thicken.
5. Season the sauce with chili flakes, oregano, and thyme. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, then return the chicken to the skillet. Let everything simmer together for a few minutes so the flavors combine.
6. Finish with freshly chopped basil and serve hot.

Variations I Will Suggest You Try!

• Add sautéed mushrooms for extra earthiness
• Use spinach instead of basil for a softer finish
• Substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce
• Add lemon zest for brightness

Storage and Leftover Tips!

1. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
2. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat
3. Add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to loosen the sauce
4. Avoid freezing, as the cream sauce may separate

How I Like to Serve This Dish?

• Over pasta such as fettuccine or penne
• Paired with rice or mashed potatoes
• Served with crusty bread to soak up the sauce
• Alongside a simple green salad

Marry Me Chicken Recipe

This creamy sun-dried tomato chicken is rich, garlicky, and comforting, with tender chicken cutlets simmered in a Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights but fancy enough for guests.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Calories: 447

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

• 3 large boneless skinless chicken breasts sliced into thin cutlets
• Salt and black pepper
• About 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour for dredging
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan
• Chili flakes to taste
• A pinch of dried oregano
• A pinch of dried thyme
• 1/3 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• Fresh basil chopped for finishing

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Tongs
• Shallow bowl or plate (for flour dredging)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Method

 

1. Season the chicken cutlets with salt and black pepper on both sides. Lightly dredge in flour and shake off any excess.
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken in batches for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer gently until the sauce thickens.
6. Season with chili flakes, oregano, and thyme. Add the sun-dried tomatoes.
7. Return the chicken to the pan and simmer for a few minutes so it absorbs the sauce.
8. Finish with chopped fresh basil and serve hot over pasta or rice.

FAQs

1. Can chicken thighs be used instead of breasts?
   Yes, boneless skinless thighs work well but may require slightly longer cooking time.
2. Is this dish spicy?
   The heat level is mild and can be adjusted by increasing or reducing chili flakes.
3. Can pre-grated Parmesan be used?
   Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for the best texture and flavor.
4. Does this recipe work for meal prep?
   It can be prepared ahead, but the sauce is best enjoyed fresh or gently reheated.

Recipe Summary

Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, skillet-cooked dish featuring tender chicken cutlets simmered in a rich Parmesan cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs. It is comforting, balanced, and well-suited for both everyday meals and special occasions.