Marry Me Chicken is a delicious and creamy dish that’s said to be so good, it might just inspire a marriage proposal! With tender chicken thighs cooked in a rich, savory sauce of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese, this dish is perfect for a romantic dinner or any special occasion. The blend of spices and herbs adds a depth of flavor that makes this dish truly irresistible.
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken
For the Chicken:
- 6 Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs work best for a juicy and flavorful dish.
- Onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Garlic powder: Enhances the savory flavor of the chicken.
- Cajun seasoning: Adds a bit of heat and complexity to the dish.
- Pepper: For seasoning and adding a slight kick.
- Paprika: Adds a smoky flavor and rich color.
- Italian herbs: A blend of basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme for an earthy, aromatic flavor.
- Olive oil: Used for searing the chicken to a golden brown.
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp Butter: Adds richness and helps form the base of the sauce.
- 2 Tbsp fresh minced Garlic: Adds a robust, aromatic flavor to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup Chicken broth: Provides a savory base for the sauce and helps deglaze the pan.
- 1/3 cup Heavy whipping cream: Adds creaminess and richness to the sauce.
- Sun-dried Tomatoes: Adds a tangy sweetness and a burst of flavor.
- 1 Tbsp White cooking wine: Adds acidity and depth to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup Fresh Shredded Parmesan or Italian cheese: Adds a nutty, salty flavor that melts beautifully into the sauce.
- Salt: To taste, for seasoning.
- Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
Instructions: How to Make Marry Me Chicken
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
- Season the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides of the chicken with onion powder, garlic powder, Cajun seasoning, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs.
- Sear the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5 minutes on the other side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- Sauté the Garlic:
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the fresh minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Add the Chicken Broth and Wine:
- Pour in the chicken broth and white cooking wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add the Cream and Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
- Stir in the heavy whipping cream and sun-dried tomatoes. Let the sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Add the Parmesan Cheese:
- Stir in the fresh shredded Parmesan or Italian cheese, and continue to cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Combine and Cook the Chicken
- Return the Chicken to the Skillet:
- Place the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top of each thigh.
- Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve Hot:
- Serve the Marry Me Chicken hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
Cook’s Notes & Tips
- Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs provide the best flavor and texture, but you can use boneless, skinless thighs or even chicken breasts if you prefer.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: If using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drain them well before adding to the sauce. The oil can add extra flavor, so feel free to use a little of it in the sauce if desired.
- Wine: If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute with additional chicken broth.
Variations of Marry Me Chicken
Here are some ways to customize your Marry Me Chicken:
- Mushroom Marry Me Chicken: Add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce for an earthy flavor.
- Spicy Marry Me Chicken: Increase the Cajun seasoning or add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Herb Marry Me Chicken: Add a splash of lemon juice and extra fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary for a bright, zesty flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, Marry Me Chicken can be made ahead of time and reheated. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, so add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating to thin it out.
3. Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze Marry Me Chicken. Let the dish cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
4. What can I serve with Marry Me Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. A side salad or garlic bread would also complement the rich flavors.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use other types of cheese like mozzarella, Asiago, or Romano, but Parmesan adds the best flavor and texture to the sauce.
Conclusion: A Dish to Impress
Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress your family or guests. With tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich garlic, sun-dried tomato, and Parmesan sauce, this dish is both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a cozy dinner at home, Marry Me Chicken is a recipe you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.
So gather your ingredients and enjoy this deliciously rich and satisfying dish that might just inspire a proposal!
