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This is the kind of dinner that wins hearts and turns an ordinary weeknight into something truly special. Marry Me Chicken features tender, golden brown chicken thighs smothered in a velvety parmesan and sun-dried tomato cream sauce with just enough savory depth and tang to make every bite irresistible.
The first time I made this, my husband kept sneaking spoonfuls of the sauce from the pan while it rested. Now my family requests it for birthdays and celebrations because it feels like true comfort food with a dash of romance.
Ingredients
- Bone-in skin-on chicken thighs: give the dish its juicy texture and pronounced flavor so look for pieces with plump pink flesh and crisp light gold skin
- Onion powder and garlic powder: create a savory foundation that soaks into the chicken
- Cajun seasoning: adds a little kick and complexity to the sauce try to use a blend with a touch of smokiness
- Fresh ground black pepper and paprika: bring warmth and subtle heat opt for sweet paprika for a gentle flavor or smoked for earthiness
- Italian herbs: lend the signature Mediterranean aroma good blends include oregano basil and thyme
- Extra-virgin olive oil: helps the seasonings stick and ensures golden skin choose a bottle with a grassy aroma and low acidity
- Unsalted butter: creates richness and binds the sauce
- Fresh garlic: elevates the sauce with real depth mince your own for best results
- Low-sodium chicken broth: keeps the sauce from being too salty yet full-bodied
- Heavy whipping cream: is what makes the sauce so decadent use the freshest cream possible for the best texture
- Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes: provide a bright tangy punch drain well and chop for even distribution
- Dry white cooking wine: lends acidity and helps balance the sauce a dry Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best
- Fresh shredded Parmesan or Italian cheese blend: melts smoothly into the sauce block cheese is best for shredding at home
- Salt and pepper to taste: let you adjust the seasoning at every stage
- Extra Italian herbs: for a lovely finishing touch
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare and Season the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken thighs dry using paper towels ensuring a crisp sear once they hit the pan Rub both sides generously with onion powder garlic powder Cajun seasoning black pepper paprika and Italian herbs Drizzle olive oil all over to help the spices stick Press seasonings in for even coating
- Brown the Chicken:
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high and add olive oil Lay the chicken skin-side down Cook undisturbed for a solid six minutes until the skin is crisp and golden Flip and repeat for another six minutes Remove chicken to a plate and set aside
- Start the Sauce Base:
- Lower heat to medium Add the butter and let it melt fully Toss in the minced garlic and stir constantly for three minutes allowing it to soften and turn fragrant Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits leftover in the pan
- Deglaze and Build Flavor:
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir to loosen everything from the bottom Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and heavy cream Stir until slightly thickened about three minutes Sprinkle in more Italian herbs salt and pepper Simmer for another minute to blend flavors
- Melt the Cheese and Add Wine:
- Slowly add shredded Parmesan or cheese blend by the handful Stir continuously so the cheese melts smoothly and the sauce becomes glossy Pour in white wine letting it bubble for about one minute so the alcohol cooks off and the sauce melds
- Bake Everything Together:
- Nestle the chicken thighs back into the skillet Spoon the sauce to partially cover each piece Make sure everything is surrounded by sauce Slide the skillet into a preheated 400 degree oven Bake uncovered for thirty to thirty five minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbling thick
- Rest and Serve:
- Let the skillet cool for at least five minutes so juices settle Spoon extra sauce generously over each serving Garnish with more Italian herbs Serve with mashed potatoes pasta or rice
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My favorite part is always the sun-dried tomatoes Their concentrated flavor brings brightness to the creamy sauce One time my mom made this for a big family dinner and everyone fought over who could get the most sauce So now she always doubles the recipe
Storage Tips
To save leftovers cool the chicken and sauce completely before storing in an airtight container The flavors intensify overnight making the next day’s meal even richer Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave and add a bit of chicken broth to bring back the silky consistency Never let the sauce boil after reheating to avoid curdling the cream
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use boneless skinless chicken breasts if thighs are not available just shorten the baking time to prevent dryness For a lighter option substitute half and half for heavy cream but keep in mind the sauce will be less luxurious Roasted red peppers chopped small work as a worthy substitute for sun-dried tomatoes If you must go dairy free a rich coconut cream can be used though the taste will shift
Serving Suggestions
This is best with mashed potatoes egg noodles or fluffy rice so the sauce has something to soak into For a special touch serve with buttered garlic bread and a crisp green salad Or spoon it over sauteed spinach for a lighter take My kids love it with plain pasta shells for extra soaking power
Cultural Context
While the name Marry Me Chicken is playful dishes like this have roots in Italian and Tuscan cuisine combining aromatics cream and cheese for a sauce that feels both rustic and luxurious It is a classic example of American home cooks adapting Italian flavors for hearty family meals
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What cut of chicken works best for this dish?
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are ideal, offering maximum juiciness and flavor, but boneless thighs or breasts may be substituted.
- → Can I use something besides sun-dried tomatoes?
Roasted red peppers are a great alternative, bringing a sweet, slightly tangy element to the sauce.
- → What can I serve alongside this chicken?
Popular choices include mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- → How can I achieve the creamiest sauce texture?
Shred your own Parmesan for smooth melting, and stir the cheese in gradually until completely blended.
- → Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheat best with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.
- → Can I make this lighter?
Swap half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich and thick.