Marry Me Chicken with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce is a rich, comforting dish made with tender chicken breasts cooked in a creamy sauce filled with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and a hint of cheese. The sauce feels thick and silky, coating the chicken perfectly, and bursting with flavor from the tomatoes and herbs.
I love making this dish when I want something special but easy enough for a weeknight. The sun-dried tomatoes give the sauce a lovely tangy sweetness that balances the creaminess just right. Whenever I make it, everyone always asks for seconds, which I take as a pretty good sign it’s a winner. Plus, it’s one of those recipes where the smell alone gets you excited to eat.
My favorite way to serve Marry Me Chicken is over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or buttery pasta to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce. It’s great for a cozy dinner, and I’ve even brought it along to share at potlucks where it always disappears fast. This recipe has a way of making ordinary nights feel a little more special, which is why I keep coming back to it time and again.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless breasts cook evenly and stay tender. If preferred, thighs work too and add extra flavor.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These bring a tangy, chewy bite. If you don’t have oil-packed tomatoes, use dry ones but soak them in warm water first.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and smooth. For a lighter version, try half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds saltiness and depth. Grate fresh Parmesan if you can—it melts better and tastes fresher than pre-grated.
Italian Seasoning: A handy mix of herbs that gives flavor without fuss. You can also use a blend of dried oregano, basil, and thyme separately.
How Can I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy and Tasty?
Cooking chicken breasts without drying them out can be tricky. Here are my tips to keep them juicy:
- Pat the chicken dry and season well before cooking.
- Cook over medium-high heat to get a nice golden crust quickly, which seals in juices.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give chicken space to brown instead of steaming.
- Flip the chicken only once and cook about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness.
- Let chicken rest a few minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute.
Following these steps will help your chicken stay tender under that creamy, flavorful sauce.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for browning chicken and simmering the creamy sauce all in one pan.
- Wooden spoon – helps you stir the sauce gently without scratching your skillet.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate seasoning and sauce ingredients.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – to chop garlic and sun-dried tomatoes easily and safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs if you like juicier, more flavorful meat.
- Add fresh spinach or kale at the end for a boost of color and nutrients.
- Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat that pairs well with creamy sauce.
- Use goat cheese instead of Parmesan for a tangier, creamier sauce texture.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably packed in oil)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional, for garnish)
Time You’ll Need:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for a weekday dinner or any time you want something creamy and flavorful fast.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Cook the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts well with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Then, remove the chicken and set it aside.
2. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until you smell the lovely aroma. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for a minute or two to mix the flavors. Pour in the chicken broth and gently scrape the bottom of the pan to lift up any tasty browned bits. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
3. Finish the Sauce and Combine:
Stir in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let it thicken for about 3-5 minutes. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over the top, and let it simmer together for a couple more minutes so the chicken absorbs all the creamy goodness.
4. Serve:
Taste the sauce and adjust with more salt or pepper if you wish. Garnish with fresh parsley and, if you like, a sprig of rosemary. Serve hot, spooning plenty of sauce on each plate. This dish goes great with mashed potatoes, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up every bit of the sauce.
Enjoy your delicious Marry Me Chicken with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. The best way is to leave it in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can thaw it in cold water in a sealed bag, changing the water every 30 minutes until thawed.
What Can I Substitute for Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, try using chopped roasted red peppers for a similar sweet and smoky taste. Alternatively, fresh cherry tomatoes can work but will create a lighter sauce without the same concentrated flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, and add a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Swap heavy cream for coconut cream or a creamy plant-based milk, and replace Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast to keep that cheesy flavor.
