Name: Marry Me Chicken Creamy Parmesan
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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; 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 apple cider vinegar; 50 grams freshly grated Parmesan or Italian hard cheese; Salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Dried Italian herbs, to taste

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Marry Me Chicken is the kind of dish that feels both luxurious and comforting. The combination of creamy parmesan sauce, aromatic sun-dried tomatoes, and perfectly seasoned chicken thighs is irresistible. The rich flavors are balanced with a hint of sweetness from the tomatoes and a touch of acidity in the sauce, making it a showstopper on your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this dish will never disappoint.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:
6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

Seasonings:
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

Cooking Oil:
Olive oil, for sautéing

For the Sauce:
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 apple cider vinegar
50 grams freshly grated Parmesan or Italian hard cheese
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Dried Italian herbs, to taste

Directions

Step 1 – Season the Chicken:
Generously season both sides of the chicken thighs with onion powder, garlic powder, Cajun seasoning, black pepper, paprika, and dried Italian herbs.

Step 2 – Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer the seared chicken to a separate baking dish.

Step 3 – Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 3 minutes or until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, sun-dried tomatoes, and heavy whipping cream. Stir to combine, then add the apple cider vinegar. Season with additional salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring steadily.

Step 4 – Add the Cheese:
Gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan or Italian cheese, whisking constantly to ensure a smooth and cohesive sauce.

Step 5 – Bake the Chicken:
Pour the finished sauce evenly over the seared chicken thighs in the baking dish. Place the dish in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 6 – Serve:
Remove the chicken from the oven and serve with the pan sauce over a base of mashed potatoes, rice, or a side of your choice.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

Add Vegetables: Serve this dish with roasted vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus for extra flavor and texture.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative for a dairy-free version of the sauce.
Chicken Breast Option: You can also make this dish with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce as it thickens over time.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but thighs tend to be juicier and more tender, especially in this creamy sauce.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.

Can I make the sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently before pouring it over the chicken.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that the chicken broth and other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I use jarred sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes, jarred sun-dried tomatoes work just as well as dried ones in this recipe. Just drain and chop them before adding to the sauce.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Creamy Parmesan is an irresistible dish that combines tender chicken, a rich parmesan sauce, and a gooey caramelized tomato layer. The balance of savory, creamy, and slightly tangy flavors makes this meal truly unforgettable. Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side, this dish will quickly become a favorite on your dinner table. With its rich, savory flavors and ease of preparation, Marry Me Chicken is a perfect choice for any occasion.