Description
Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich sauce of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan, finished with fresh basil. This easy oven-baked recipe combines bold flavors with a luscious creamy sauce for a comforting yet elegant meal perfect for any weeknight or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp. fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
- 3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- Torn fresh basil, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat and Sear Chicken: Arrange a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 375°F. In a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Generously season the chicken breasts with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook the chicken, turning halfway through, until golden brown on both sides, approximately 5 minutes per side. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce Base: Using the same skillet over medium heat, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir in finely chopped garlic, fresh thyme leaves, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook while stirring until the garlic is fragrant, about 1 minute. This infuses the oil with the aromatic flavors.
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the low-sodium chicken broth, finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Season with a pinch of salt to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the sauce to develop and thicken slightly.
- Return Chicken and Bake: Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet with any juices accumulated on the plate. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake until the chicken is fully cooked through and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F, about 10 to 12 minutes.
- Serve: Once done, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Arrange the chicken on a serving platter and spoon the creamy tomato sauce over the top. Garnish with torn fresh basil leaves for a bright, fresh finish. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use an ovenproof skillet such as cast iron to seamlessly transfer from stovetop to oven.
- Ensure chicken breasts are patted dry before seasoning to get a proper golden sear.
- Fresh thyme can be substituted with dried thyme—use about 1 tsp if dried.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for less heat.
- Serve with crusty bread, pasta, or a light green salad for a complete meal.
Keywords: Marry Me Chicken, creamy chicken recipe, sun-dried tomato chicken, easy baked chicken, chicken with creamy sauce