Marry Me Chicken Dinner

This creamy sun-dried tomato chicken is a restaurant-worthy dinner that comes together in under forty minutes, making it perfect for both special occasions and cozy weeknights at home. Succulent chicken breasts simmer in a luscious sauce of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan—the kind of meal that earns recipe requests every time I serve it.

My husband took one bite of this and declared it his all-time favorite chicken dinner. Now I make it when I want to wow someone with minimal fuss.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: Halved horizontally so each piece cooks quickly and stays juicy. Fresh and plump breasts will work best
• Olive oil: Brings everything together with richness. Extra virgin adds the best flavor
• Italian seasoning: Layers herby notes into every bite. Choose a blend with oregano and basil up front
• Salt: Essential for enhancing savory elements
• Black pepper: Gives just enough warmth and depth
• Garlic: Fresh cloves offer unbeatable aroma and punch. Look for firm bulbs with no sprouting
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Add concentrated flavor and sweetness. Oil-packed varieties will blend more smoothly into the sauce
• Chicken broth: Acts as a savory base and helps deglaze the brown bits for rich taste. Low sodium is best for adjusting seasoning later
• Heavy cream: Delivers a silky luxurious texture
• Parmesan cheese: Brings umami and tang. Freshly grated is worth it for melting power
• Fresh basil: For garnish and fresh lift. Choose bright green leaves with no bruising

How to Make It

Prep the Chicken:

Pat both sides of the chicken breasts dry with paper towels this helps the seasoning stick and ensures browning. Halve each breast horizontally for cutlets about half an inch thick season on both sides with Italian seasoning salt and black pepper

Sear the Chicken:

Pour olive oil into a large skillet and heat over medium-high until shimmering Place chicken cutlets into the hot pan in a single layer let them cook undisturbed for five to seven minutes per side until both sides are golden brown and the center is cooked through Transfer chicken to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm

Start the Sauce Base:

Lower heat to medium Add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet Stir constantly for one minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned The tomato oil bits are flavor gold so scrape those too

Deglaze and Simmer:

Pour in chicken broth While whisking scrape the bottom of the pan to loosen all the caramelized bits Increase heat to bring to a simmer for about two minutes until the liquid reduces slightly

Finish the Sauce:

Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese Switch to low heat and stir often until the sauce thickens a bit this should be three to five minutes Do not boil or the cream can split

Return Chicken and Garnish:

Nestle the chicken cutlets back into the skillet Spoon sauce over the top Simmer for another two to three minutes so the flavors blend and the chicken heats through Sprinkle chopped basil all over right before serving

My favorite part is how the sun-dried tomatoes bring such rich tanginess without being overwhelming. I once made this for our anniversary and we laughed because it was the highlight of the night—someone may have even licked the plate.

Flavor Boosters

Cool any leftovers to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days this sauce does thicken as it sits but rewarms well with a splash of broth or cream. Avoid freezing for best texture since the creamy sauce may separate.

Serving Suggestions

Twirl this chicken and sauce over hot fettuccine or nestle it alongside seasoned rice. It is also heavenly with roasted potatoes and simple salads on the side. For an elegant touch top each portion with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper.

Creative Twists

If you only have chicken thighs they work well just adjust searing time for thicker pieces. Half and half can stand in for heavy cream but your sauce will be a bit lighter. If you are missing fresh basil a little parsley works nicely or try a pinch of dried Italian herbs. In winter use jarred sun-dried tomatoes for steady flavor. If it is summer toss some cherry tomatoes into the sauce for burstiness. Swap the fresh basil with chopped arugula for a peppery twist if basil is out of season.

Friends say this is their go-to meal for impressing in-laws or last-minute date nights. It gets rave reviews from picky eaters and reheats beautifully for lunch the next day.

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ What sides pair well with Marry Me Chicken?

Pasta, rice, or crusty bread absorb the creamy sauce beautifully. Steamed vegetables also complement the flavors.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs offer a juicier texture and work well with the sauce. Adjust cook time as needed.

→ Is there a substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?

Roasted red peppers can be used for a different flavor profile, though sun-dried tomatoes bring a distinct tanginess.

→ How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Simmer the sauce gently after adding cream and cheese, and avoid high heat to maintain a smooth, creamy texture.

→ Can this dish be made ahead?

Yes, prepare in advance and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.