If you are searching for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Marry Me Chicken Creamy Parmesan Recipe is your perfect go-to. This luscious, tender chicken cooked in a rich and flavorful creamy Parmesan sauce will have you swooning with every bite. With sun-dried tomatoes adding a subtle tang and Italian herbs infusing the sauce with aromatic layers, this recipe balances indulgence and comfort beautifully. Whether you’re impressing a special someone or simply treating yourself, the Marry Me Chicken Creamy Parmesan Recipe will become a cherished classic in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in crafting the flavorful layers that make the dish unforgettable. From the spices that create a beautiful crust on the chicken to the cream and Parmesan that build a silky sauce, these simple staples come together to create something extraordinary.
- 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs: These are perfect for juicy, tender meat that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- Onion powder, garlic powder, Cajun seasoning, sweet paprika, and dried Italian herbs: A blend of spices that layer deep, savory, and slightly smoky flavors.
- Freshly ground black pepper and salt: Essential for seasoning and balancing the dish.
- Olive oil: For searing the chicken to a golden perfection and adding richness.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds a velvety richness to the sauce base.
- 2 tablespoons fresh garlic, finely minced: Provides an aromatic punch that wakes up the sauce.
- 120 millilitres chicken broth: Creates depth and moisture in the sauce.
- 80 millilitres heavy whipping cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and smooth.
- 50 grams sun dried tomatoes, chopped: A subtle tang and chewy texture that brightens the dish.
- 1 tablespoon dry white cooking wine: Adds a subtle acidity and complexity.
- 50 grams freshly grated Parmesan or Italian hard cheese: The star ingredient of the sauce that melts into irresistible creaminess.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Creamy Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Season Your Chicken
Start by generously seasoning both sides of your chicken thighs with onion powder, garlic powder, Cajun seasoning, black pepper, sweet paprika, and dried Italian herbs. This spice mix forms the flavorful crust that’s key to this recipe’s allure. Don’t rush this step—it’s where the magic begins.
Step 2: Sear to Golden Perfection
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until beautifully golden brown. This not only gives the chicken a gorgeous color but also locks in moisture, ensuring every bite is tender. Once seared, transfer the chicken to a separate baking dish—keeping that skillet handy for the sauce.
Step 3: Create the Flavorful Base
In the same skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat and add the freshly minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until fragrant, careful not to let it brown too much. This garlic butter base infuses the entire sauce with mouthwatering aroma and richness.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, chopped sun dried tomatoes, and heavy whipping cream. Stir everything together, then add the dry white wine. Season the sauce further with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs to enhance the flavor. Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes while stirring steadily. This step melds all the ingredients into a deliciously creamy and well-balanced sauce.
Step 5: Add the Star Ingredient—Parmesan Cheese
Gradually sprinkle in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, whisking constantly to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, cohesive sauce. The cheese melts seamlessly into the cream, creating a silky texture that defines this Marry Me Chicken Creamy Parmesan Recipe.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour the finished sauce evenly over the seared chicken thighs in the baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C for 30 to 35 minutes until the chicken is cooked through, juicy, and tender. The baking allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken beautifully.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the chicken from the oven and spoon the luscious pan sauce over the top. This dish is ready to be the star of your meal.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken Creamy Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil on top instantly elevates the dish with a pop of color and fresh flavor. A light sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese enhances the cheesy goodness and makes the presentation irresistible.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or garlic butter noodles, which soak up every bit of the decadent sauce. Roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad provide a fresh contrast, balancing the richness of the chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, serve the chicken on a bed of creamy polenta, garnished with sun-dried tomato slices and a drizzle of the creamy Parmesan sauce. Alternatively, layering the creamy chicken on top of toasted crusty bread makes a fantastic rustic open-faced sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Marry Me Chicken Creamy Parmesan Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the sauce covers the chicken well to keep it moist and flavorful.
Freezing
This dish freezes very well. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. This will revive the luscious texture without drying out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but thighs tend to stay juicier and more tender when baked in this creamy sauce. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook to avoid dryness.
What can I substitute for sun dried tomatoes?
If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, try using roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes for a milder, sweeter twist. They will still complement the creamy Parmesan sauce nicely.
Is it necessary to use white wine in the sauce?
White wine adds a lovely acidity and complexity, but if you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can substitute additional chicken broth with a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, use a non-dairy cream substitute and omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative. The flavor and creaminess will be different but still delicious.
Does this recipe work well for meal prep?
Absolutely! Marry Me Chicken Creamy Parmesan Recipe reheats beautifully, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping lunches or dinners during a busy week.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting and indulgent about the Marry Me Chicken Creamy Parmesan Recipe that keeps calling you back for more. Its combination of tender chicken, rich creamy sauce, and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes is truly unforgettable. I can’t wait for you to whip it up in your kitchen and see how effortlessly it earns its spot as a new favorite. Once you try this, it might just be the recipe you’ll want to “marry” forever.
Print
Marry Me Chicken Creamy Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich Parmesan and sun-dried tomato sauce. This comforting recipe combines a savory blend of Cajun spices, garlic, and Italian herbs, finished with a luscious creamy sauce baked to perfection. Perfect for an impressive yet easy dinner, it pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or your favorite side.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs
- Onion powder to taste
- Garlic powder to taste
- Cajun seasoning to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Sweet paprika to taste
- Dried Italian herbs to taste
- Salt to taste
Sauce
- Olive oil for sautéing
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh garlic, finely minced
- 120 millilitres chicken broth
- 80 millilitres heavy whipping cream
- 50 grams sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tablespoon dry white cooking wine
- 50 grams freshly grated Parmesan or Italian hard cheese
- Additional salt, freshly ground black pepper, and dried Italian herbs to taste
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Generously season both sides of the chicken thighs with onion powder, garlic powder, Cajun seasoning, freshly ground black pepper, sweet paprika, and dried Italian herbs, ensuring even coating and flavor development.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the chicken thighs for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and nicely caramelized. Transfer the seared chicken to a separate baking dish to prepare for baking.
- Prepare the Sauce Base: Using the same skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the finely minced garlic and sauté for about 3 minutes or until fragrant and golden, which enriches the sauce with aromatic depth.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and heavy whipping cream, stirring to combine well. Add the dry white cooking wine and season further with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes while stirring steadily to meld flavors.
- Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Gradually sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan or Italian hard cheese into the sauce while whisking constantly. This ensures the sauce becomes smooth, creamy, and cohesive without clumping.
- Bake the Chicken: Pour the finished creamy Parmesan sauce evenly over the chicken thighs in the baking dish. Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F) and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through, tender, and the sauce is bubbling and slightly thickened.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and serve immediately, spooning plenty of the luscious pan sauce over the chicken. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or your choice of sides for a hearty meal.
Notes
- For best results, use an oven-safe skillet to sear and make the sauce, then transfer chicken to a baking dish if needed.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially the Cajun seasoning for preferred spice level.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add tang and depth; use oil-packed for richer flavor or dry-packed rehydrated in warm water.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half for a lighter version, though sauce will be less rich.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) for food safety.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
