Name: Marry Me Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into halves); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 slices bacon, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

There’s something truly magical about a dish that not only tastes incredible but also has a name as charming as Marry Me Chicken. This creamy, savory, and slightly smoky dish is packed with flavors that will make anyone fall in love at first bite. The combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich, garlicky parmesan cream sauce is simply irresistible.

I love making Marry Me Chicken for special occasions, but it’s just as perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. It comes together in under an hour and uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. If you’re looking for a dish that feels fancy but is actually super easy to make, this is the one!

Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Chicken

Rich and Creamy – The luscious parmesan cream sauce is velvety and indulgent.
Easy to Make – Comes together in just one pan with minimal effort.
Full of Flavor – A perfect balance of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and bacon.
Perfect for Date Night – The name says it all—it’s a meal that impresses!
Great for Meal Prep – It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For the best Marry Me Chicken, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the most popular choice. They cook quickly and absorb the creamy sauce beautifully. However, if you prefer a juicier option, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work just as well. They have a bit more fat, which makes them extra flavorful and tender. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a little longer to cook through.

If you only have bone-in chicken, you can still use it—just brown it well and finish cooking it in the sauce over low heat to ensure tenderness.

Options for Substitutions

If you’re missing an ingredient or want to make this dish your own, here are some great substitutions:

Chicken – Swap chicken breasts for thighs or even turkey cutlets.
Heavy Cream – Use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a lighter alternative.
Parmesan Cheese – Romano or Asiago cheese can work in place of parmesan.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes – If you don’t have these, try roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes for a different twist.
Bacon – Pancetta or turkey bacon are great substitutes if you prefer something leaner.
Chicken Broth – Vegetable broth or white wine can be used for a slightly different depth of flavor.

These swaps allow you to tailor the dish to your taste or dietary preferences without losing its signature richness.

Ingredients for This Marry Me Chicken

Each ingredient in Marry Me Chicken plays a key role in creating its rich, creamy, and flavorful profile. Here’s why you need them:

Chicken Breasts – The star of the dish, providing a tender and juicy bite.
Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.
Garlic Powder & Paprika – Adds depth and a hint of smokiness to the seasoning.
Olive Oil – Helps sear the chicken to golden perfection.
Bacon – Crispy, smoky goodness that enhances the dish’s flavor.
Garlic Cloves – Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with a rich aroma.
Chicken Broth – Forms the base of the creamy sauce, adding depth.
Heavy Cream – Makes the sauce luxuriously smooth and velvety.
Parmesan Cheese – Provides a salty, nutty richness to the sauce.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Adds a sweet-tangy contrast to the creamy sauce.
Red Pepper Flakes – A touch of heat to balance the richness.
Italian Seasoning – Brings in a blend of herbs for extra flavor.
Fresh Parsley – A pop of color and freshness to finish the dish.

These simple yet flavorful ingredients come together to create an unforgettable meal!

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel, then season them generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Once done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered fat in the pan. Lower the heat and add the minced garlic, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up the browned bits from the pan—this adds so much flavor! Stir in the heavy cream, parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Simmer the Chicken in the Sauce

Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, along with any juices from the plate. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and let it simmer for another 8–10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens beautifully.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with the crispy bacon and fresh chopped parsley. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes, and get ready for compliments!

How Long to Cook Marry Me Chicken

Cooking time will depend on the thickness of your chicken breasts. After searing, the chicken should simmer in the sauce for about 8–10 minutes until fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfectly juicy chicken. If using chicken thighs, they may take a few minutes longer.

Tips for Perfect Marry Me Chicken

Pound the Chicken Evenly – If your chicken breasts are thick, pound them slightly for even cooking.
Use Fresh Garlic – It adds a more robust flavor than garlic powder.
Don’t Skip Searing – This step locks in moisture and creates a golden crust.
Simmer Gently – Avoid boiling the sauce to keep it creamy and smooth.
Adjust Consistency – If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of chicken broth.
Let It Rest – Allow the chicken to sit for a few minutes before serving to retain its juices.
Crispy Bacon on Top – Add the bacon at the end to keep it crispy rather than soggy.

Following these tips ensures that every bite of Marry Me Chicken is tender, flavorful, and completely irresistible!

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the Chicken – Chicken breasts dry out quickly, so use a thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (75°C).
Skipping the Searing Step – This adds depth of flavor and helps the chicken hold up in the sauce.
Letting the Sauce Get Too Thick – If it reduces too much, stir in a little extra broth to loosen it up.
Adding Bacon Too Soon – Sprinkle it on at the end to keep it crispy.
Not Deglazing the Pan – Scraping up the browned bits after searing adds amazing flavor to the sauce.
Boiling the Sauce – Keep the heat low to prevent the cream from separating.
Underseasoning – The sauce should be well-seasoned to complement the richness of the cream and parmesan.
Forgetting to Rest the Chicken – Let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving to keep it juicy.

What to Serve With Marry Me Chicken?

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with fluffy, buttery mashed potatoes.

2. Roasted Vegetables

A side of roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots balances the richness of the dish.

3. Pasta

Serve over fettuccine or penne to soak up all that delicious sauce.

4. Rice

Steamed white or brown rice makes a simple yet satisfying base.

5. Crusty Bread

A warm baguette or garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.

6. Green Salad

A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette adds freshness to the meal.

7. Sauteed Spinach

A quick side of garlicky spinach enhances the flavors without overpowering.

8. Cauliflower Mash

For a low-carb alternative, try mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes.

These side dishes will turn Marry Me Chicken into a complete and unforgettable meal!

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, Marry Me Chicken stores beautifully! Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing – Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the cream sauce may separate slightly upon thawing.
Reheating – Warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring back the sauce’s smooth texture. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories – 450–500 kcal
Protein – 40g
Fat – 30g
Carbohydrates – 6g
Fiber – 1g
Sugar – 2g

These numbers may vary depending on portion size and ingredient substitutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Make Marry Me Chicken Without Heavy Cream?

Yes! You can use half-and-half for a lighter version or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

2. Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will be juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time as they take a bit longer.

3. How Do I Make the Sauce Thicker?

If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.

4. Can I Make This Dish Spicy?

Yes! Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for more heat.

5. What If My Sauce Is Too Thick?

Simply add a splash of chicken broth or a little more cream to loosen it up.

6. Can I Prep This Dish in Advance?

You can sear the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. When ready to serve, reheat everything gently and simmer until warmed through.

7. Is Marry Me Chicken Gluten-Free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth and ensure your parmesan cheese has no additives containing gluten.

8. Can I Add Vegetables to the Dish?

Of course! Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers make great additions to the sauce.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken is a dish that lives up to its name—rich, flavorful, and completely irresistible! Whether you’re making it for a romantic dinner or a cozy family meal, it’s guaranteed to impress. Don’t forget to save this recipe on Pinterest and share it with your friends and family—they’ll thank you for it!