Name: Marry Me Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Chicken:; 2 lb chicken thigh fillet (Note 1); 2 tbsp sun-dried tomato oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; For the Sauce:; 2 large cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (Note 2); 2 tbsp tomato paste; ½ tbsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth); 1 cup heavy cream (Note 3); ¼ cup fresh parsley, coarsely chopped, stems removed; Red chili flakes (optional, for heat)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Marry Me Chicken is the perfect dish to impress your loved one with a romantic, restaurant-quality meal. With tender chicken cooked in a luxurious garlic and sun-dried tomato creamy sauce, this dish is packed with rich, savory flavors that will have you saying “I do!” to every bite. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a quick and delicious dinner option for busy nights or special occasions. With its perfect balance of creaminess, herbs, and a slight kick, this dish is bound to become a new favorite!

Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

2 lb chicken thigh fillet (Note 1)
2 tbsp sun-dried tomato oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

2 large cloves garlic, minced
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (Note 2)
2 tbsp tomato paste
½ tbsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp dried oregano
1 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
1 cup heavy cream (Note 3)
¼ cup fresh parsley, coarsely chopped, stems removed
Red chili flakes (optional, for heat)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of sun-dried tomato oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sauté for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of sun-dried tomato oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom. Increase the heat to medium.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, dried oregano, sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste. Mix well.
Simmer the Chicken:
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan and gently toss to coat it evenly in the sauce. Once the sauce starts bubbling, reduce the heat to very low. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) on an instant-read thermometer.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Finish and Serve:
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a pinch of red chili flakes (if desired for heat). Serve immediately while steaming hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Chicken Breast Option: You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for chicken thighs. Chicken breasts cook faster but may dry out, so be careful not to overcook them.
Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, use full-fat coconut cream instead of heavy cream (note that it will add a delicate sweetness to the dish).
Spicy Version: Add more red chili flakes or fresh chili peppers to the sauce for a spicier kick.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts will work well in this recipe. Keep in mind that chicken breasts cook faster and can dry out more easily, so be sure to check the internal temperature.

Can I make this dish in advance?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it separately in the refrigerator. Reheat and add the chicken just before serving.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be fully cooked.

Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Absolutely! You can add spinach, mushrooms, or even zucchini to the sauce for more flavor and texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth and ensure the sun-dried tomatoes don’t contain any gluten.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken is a decadent and flavorful dish that’s perfect for date nights or any occasion where you want to impress. The tender chicken in a rich garlic and sun-dried tomato creamy sauce is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or treating yourself, this dish is sure to win hearts and leave everyone asking for the recipe!