If you’re on the hunt for a dish that truly dazzles without demanding hours in the kitchen, the Easy Marry Me Chicken Recipe is your new best friend. This creamy, garlicky, sun-dried tomato chicken is bursting with rich flavors that feel luxurious yet come together with surprisingly little fuss. Every bite is like a warm hug, making it perfect for family dinners or impressing guests without breaking a sweat. Trust me, this dish lives up to its name and might just inspire a spontaneous celebration in your own home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white bowl in the middle with six pieces of raw pink chicken thighs with smooth texture stacked irregularly. Around the bowl, there are small dishes and items arranged neatly on a white marbled texture surface: a small white plate with three piles of dried spices in shades of green and red on the left side near the bowl, a clear glass bowl filled with finely shredded white cheese above the spice plate, and a clear bowl with dark reddish-brown sun-dried tomatoes at the top middle. Near the top right of the bowl, there is a small clear bowl with peeled white garlic cloves, a small white bowl with yellow melted butter beside it, and a small bunch of fresh green basil leaves. A bright yellow lemon is placed bottom left of the bowl, while a glass measuring cup with clear water is next to it. On the lower right is another glass measuring cup filled with creamy white liquid. Everything is arranged on a smooth white marble surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These straightforward ingredients are the backbone of the Easy Marry Me Chicken Recipe, each chosen to bring incredible layers of taste, texture, and color to the plate. From the juicy chicken thighs to the sunny burst of fresh basil and lemon zest, they’re all essential to create that signature creamy sauce and tender finish.

  • 2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These juicy pieces cook quickly and stay tender and flavorful.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Simple seasoning that brings out the best in the chicken.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps to sear the chicken beautifully for a golden crust.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with a fragrant and savory aroma.
  • 7 oz. jar sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped: Provides a tangy, sweet punch that brightens the creamy sauce.
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine: Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc both add acidity and complexity.
  • 1 1/4 cup heavy cream: The indulgent base that makes the sauce luxuriously smooth.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a subtle herbal note that complements the chicken perfectly.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Enhances the sauce with its warm, earthy flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds a gentle kick without overwhelming the dish.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melted into the sauce for that irresistible umami richness.
  • ¼ cup fresh basil, thinly sliced: Injects freshness and a vibrant aroma.
  • Zest of 1 lemon: Brightens the entire dish with citrusy zing.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Easy Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by generously seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides. This simple step is crucial for building layers of flavor. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken in a single layer. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, which helps the chicken get that perfect golden brown crust rather than steaming. Five minutes total, flipping halfway, is all it takes to lock in the deliciousness, then transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely to keep warm.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Lower the heat to medium, then toss in the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant and everything melds together—that intense aroma will fill your kitchen and get you even more excited for what’s to come.

Step 3: Deglaze with White Wine

Pour in the dry white wine, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the pan’s bottom; this is where the magic and deep flavor hide. Let the wine simmer and reduce by half quickly—this concentrates the flavor without overwhelming the dish.

Step 4: Add Cream and Herbs

Stir in the heavy cream, dried oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, but resist the urge to boil—it needs to thicken gently and marry all those lovely herbs without breaking.

Step 5: Melt in Parmesan and Adjust Seasoning

Once the sauce is smooth, melt in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until it blends perfectly. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed, balancing the creamy, tangy, and spicy elements just right.

Step 6: Return Chicken and Finish with Fresh Touches

Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with any resting juices. Let it simmer for 1 to 2 minutes to rewarm the chicken and allow the flavors to mingle beautifully. Right before serving, fold in the fresh basil and lemon zest to add a burst of brightness and freshness that takes this dish over the top.

How to Serve Easy Marry Me Chicken Recipe

A white pot with two handles holds a creamy orange sauce base, topped with about a dozen pieces of browned meat arranged evenly inside. Small green herb pieces are scattered lightly over the meat and sauce, adding color contrast. The pot sits on a white marbled surface, and the photo is taken from directly above, showing the dish clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The fresh basil and lemon zest aren’t just stirred in at the end; sprinkle a little extra over each serving for a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that complements the rich sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish shines when served over simple, comforting bases like creamy mashed potatoes, tender pasta, or fluffy rice. Each option soaks up the luscious sauce, making every mouthful utterly satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant touch, serve the chicken atop a bed of roasted vegetables or alongside a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette. Adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can also add texture and an extra layer of flavor that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from your Easy Marry Me Chicken Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to settle even more intensely.

Freezing

This dish freezes nicely too—just transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, making it perfect for batch cooking or saving for a busy weeknight.

Reheating

When reheating, do so gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave at medium power, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of cream or broth if the sauce thickens too much, ensuring it stays creamy and delicious just like freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs remain juicier and more forgiving during cooking, chicken breasts will work if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure not to overcook them to keep the meat tender.

Is it necessary to use white wine?

White wine adds important acidity and flavor depth, but if you prefer not to use alcohol, chicken broth or a splash of white grape juice mixed with lemon juice make good substitutes.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast. The sauce’s richness will be different but still tasty.

How spicy is this dish?

The red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth without overpowering the dish. You can easily adjust the amount to make it milder or add a touch more if you enjoy a bit of heat.

What’s the best way to serve the sauce?

Serve the sauce immediately over your chosen base, like pasta or mashed potatoes, so it’s at its creamiest and most flavorful. Avoid letting it sit too long as the sauce thickens as it cools.

Final Thoughts

There is something undeniably special about the Easy Marry Me Chicken Recipe that makes it a beloved favorite for good reason. It’s a dish that marries rich, creamy flavors with fresh, vibrant ingredients effortlessly, and it’s perfectly approachable for cooks of any skill level. If you want a meal that feels indulgent without a fuss, this recipe is definitely worth trying tonight.

Print

Easy Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Easy Marry Me Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 5 reviews

Easy Marry Me Chicken is a rich and flavorful skillet dish featuring tender chicken thighs cooked in a creamy sun-dried tomato and white wine sauce, finished with fresh basil and lemon zest. This comforting meal comes together in under an hour, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or special occasion.

  • Author: Paula
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, pat dry and cut into 23 inch chunks
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Cooking Fats

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Sauce

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 7 oz jar sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, drained, and chopped
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
  • 1 1/4 cups heavy cream (do not use anything lower in fat)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, preferably freshly grated

Finishing Touches

  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, sliced into thin strips
  • Zest of 1 lemon

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: Generously season the chicken thighs with salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides to enhance flavor.
  2. Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large stainless steel or enamel-coated skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer, working in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding, which prevents steaming. Cook for about 5 minutes total, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the browned chicken to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
  3. Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Reduce the heat to medium. Add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. These bits add rich flavor. Let it simmer and reduce by half, which should happen quickly.
  5. Add Cream and Herbs: Stir in the heavy cream, dried oregano, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer—avoid boiling—and reduce heat as necessary to maintain the simmer.
  6. Melt the Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  7. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the chicken along with any accumulated juices back into the skillet. Simmer for 1 to 2 minutes to rewarm the chicken and let the flavors meld together.
  8. Finish and Serve: Just before serving, stir in fresh basil strips and lemon zest to add a bright, fresh finish to the dish. Serve the chicken and sauce over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Use heavy cream with full fat content for best sauce consistency and flavor.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning chicken to ensure it crisps up nicely instead of steaming.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan contributes better melt and flavor than pre-grated varieties.
  • If you prefer less spice, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
  • This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides like garlic mashed potatoes, linguine, or steamed rice.

Similar Posts

0 0 votes
Article Rating
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments