Marry Me Chicken

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Marry Me Chicken-Tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich garlic cream sauce with herbs and spices—so good, it might just inspire a proposal

Introduction

This Marry Me Chicken recipe is a viral sensation for a reason. It’s bold, creamy, and comforting, with juicy chicken thighs seasoned to perfection and nestled in a luscious garlic butter sauce. Whether you’re cooking for date night, family dinner, or just treating yourself, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor in one skillet.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 6 chicken thighs (boneless or bone-in)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Onion powder (to taste)
  • Garlic powder (to taste)
  • Cajun seasoning (to taste)
  • Black pepper (to taste)
  • Paprika (to taste)
  • Italian herbs (to taste)

For the Sauce

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp fresh minced garlic
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (optional but traditional)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Season and Sear

  • Pat chicken dry and season generously with all spices.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Sear chicken thighs for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

  • In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
  • Add chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits.
  • Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 3: Return Chicken and Simmer

  • Nestle chicken back into the sauce.
  • Spoon sauce over the chicken and simmer for 10–15 minutes, until chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Step 4: Garnish and Serve
  • Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley.
  • Serve hot over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice.

Tips for Success

  • Use bone-in thighs for extra flavor, or boneless for quicker cooking.
  • Don’t skip the sear—it locks in flavor and gives great texture.
  • Sun-dried tomatoes add sweetness and depth, but you can omit or replace with roasted red peppers.
  • Make it lighter: Use half-and-half or coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with garlic mashed potatoes or buttered noodles
  • Pair with roasted asparagus or sautéed spinach
  • Add a glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon

Variations to Try

  • Creamy Mushroom Version: Add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce
  • Spicy Kick: Increase Cajun seasoning or add extra red pepper flakes
  • Cheesy Twist: Stir in mozzarella or fontina for extra meltiness
  • Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles

Final Thoughts

This Marry Me Chicken is creamy, dreamy, and totally unforgettable. Whether you’re cooking for love or just loving what you cook, it’s a dish that delivers every time.

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