One-Pan Marry Me Chicken

Named for the rumor that one bite could inspire a proposal, Marry Me Chicken sears juicy breasts in a single skillet before bathing them in a lush cream sauce. Sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan lend Italian warmth to this weeknight favorite.

Serves 4 · 12 min prep · 25 min cook

Estimate for one serving

• 480 cal
• 42g protein
• 9g carbs
• 30g fat

Every recipe here is free to read.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil
• 3/4 cup chicken broth
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 cups baby spinach

Instructions

1. 1Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. If breasts are very thick, slice horizontally into even cutlets so they cook uniformly.
2. 2Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken and sear 4 to 5 minutes per side until deep golden brown; transfer to a clean plate—the chicken will finish cooking in the sauce.
3. 3Reduce heat to medium. Mince the garlic and roughly chop the sun-dried tomatoes. Add both to the same skillet and cook 60 to 90 seconds until fragrant, scraping up browned bits.
4. 4Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a lively simmer, stirring to deglaze the pan completely. Let it reduce slightly for 2 minutes.
5. 5Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, and red pepper flakes. Simmer gently 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
6. 6Return the seared chicken and any accumulated juices to the skillet, nestling the pieces into the sauce. Spoon sauce over the tops.
7. 7Cover and cook over medium-low heat 6 to 8 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F in the thickest part and the sauce is silky.
8. 8Uncover, fold in the baby spinach and torn basil leaves, and cook 1 minute more just until the spinach wilts. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
9. 9Serve the chicken straight from the pan with plenty of creamy sun-dried tomato sauce spooned over each portion. Pair with crusty bread or pasta if desired.