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  1. Food and Cooking
  2. Recipes
  3. Marry Me Chicken

Marry Me Chicken

You've got the dreamiest dinner in 30 minutes.

By Ree DrummondUpdated: Apr 23, 2025
Star FillStar FillStar FillStar FillHalf Star
4.3
11 Ratings
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the pioneer woman's marry me chicken recipe
C. W. Newell
Yields:
4 - 6 serving(s)
Prep Time:
15 mins
Total Time:
30 mins
the pioneer woman's marry me chicken recipe

Did you know Ladd proposed to me over a plate of lasagna? Okay, he didn't really but he might as well have. This is another recipe someone, maybe your very own Marlboro Man, would consider dropping to one knee over. It's really simple and comes together in about half an hour, yet the sauce is absolutely dream-worthy. The sun-dried tomatoes really make it, and the heavy cream and parmesan only contribute to the cause. Go forth and conquer dinnertime, friends. This is one of the best one-pan meals and chicken dinner recipes of all time. It may not get you a proposal, but it will most definitely leave everyone at the table full and happy!

Why is it called Marry Me Chicken?

The idea is that the chicken is so unbelievably good, it could cause a person to propose to the cook right there on the spot. Different versions have been floating around the internet for some time now, but the original Marry Me Chicken recipe came from Delish. I love that this rendition only takes 30 minutes and is made with pantry and fridge staples. It's easy to whip up for family meals any night of the week!

How to do you cook moist and tender chicken breasts?

Dry chicken? Not here... not now... not ever, folks. There's a few steps you can take to make sure the chicken doesn't dry out. The first is making sure the chicken is of even thickness. If needed, grab a meat mallet (or even a rolling pin) and pound the chicken out a little until it's about the same thickness throughout. This will ensure even cooking! Next, cook the chicken over moderate heat. (High heat will dry the chicken out.) Last but not least, use a meat thermometer. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Can you use chicken thighs for Marry Me Chicken?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. Chicken thighs typically cook a little slower than breasts, so you may want to use an instead-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. All chicken should be cooked to a minimum of 165 degrees.

What can you use instead white wine?

There are lots of white wine substitutes you can try, but if you want to keep things easy, just replace it with extra chicken broth. Works like a charm!

Can you use milk instead of heavy cream?

No, milk isn't a good substitute in this dish. The heavy cream is what makes the sauce so thick and dreamy! That being said, half-and-half can be used, but keep in mind the sauce will be a little thinner and less creamy.

What do you serve with Marry Me Chicken?

This saucy dish would be excellent with any classic side dishes for chicken like creamy mashed potatoes or a bowl of pasta. Just don't forget the garlic bread! For something lighter, try oven-roasted asparagus or quick and easy garlic green beans.

How long does Marry Me Chicken last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until warmed through. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of chicken stock or water to thin it out.

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Ingredients

  • 4

    (9- to 10-oz.) boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • Kosher salt, to taste

  • Ground black pepper, to taste

  • 1/2 cup

    all-purpose flour

  • 6 Tbsp.

    salted butter, divided

  • 2 Tbsp.

    vegetable oil, divided

  • 1/2

    small yellow onion, finely diced (about 1/2 cup)

  • 4

    garlic cloves, grated or minced

  • 1/4 tsp.

    crushed red pepper

  • 2 Tbsp.

    tomato paste

  • 1/2 cup

    dry white wine

  • 2 cups

    chicken broth

  • 2/3 cup

    dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes, sliced

  • 1/2 tsp.

    Italian seasoning

  • 1 cup

    heavy cream

  • 1/2 cup

    freshly grated parmesan, plus more for serving

  • Flat leaf parsley, finely chopped, for serving

Directions

    1. Step 1Prepare the chicken breasts: Starting from the thickest end, slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to end up with a total of 8 cutlets. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper, to taste. 
    2. Step 2Spread the flour in a shallow dish. Working with 1 cutlet at a time, dredge the chicken in flour, shaking gently to remove the excess and transfer to a plate.
    3. Step 3Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons butter and 1 tablespoon oil, and let the butter melt. Once the foam has subsided, add the first 4 cutlets to the pan, and cook until golden brown, 4 to 5 minutes per side. Transfer to a clean plate and repeat the process with 2 tablespoons butter, 1 tablespoon oil, and the remaining 4 cutlets. (Do not wipe out the pan between batches unless flour is burning). Reduce the heat to medium-low.
    4. Step 4In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Add the onion, and cook until it is translucent, about 2 minutes. Add the garlic, red pepper flakes, and tomato paste to the pan. Stir and cook for until the garlic is fragrant and the tomato paste has turned darker in color, 1 minute. Pour in the wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits. Let the wine reduce by half, about 2 minutes.
    5. Step 5Stir in the chicken stock, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning, and bring to a simmer. Once the sauce is simmering, add the chicken and any accumulated juices back into the pan; cook for 5 minutes. (The sauce should be thickened slightly.) Stir in the cream and parmesan, and let simmer for 5 minutes more to make sure the chicken is tender and all the flavors have melded.
    6. Step 6Top with parsley and extra parmesan, and serve alongside mashed potatoes or any short cut pasta you like. 
Love this recipe? Try one of these next!
  • Chicken Piccata
  • Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
  • Ranch Chicken
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