Ina Garten Marry Me Chicken – Creamy, Rich, and Full of Flavor

If you’re looking for a show-stopping chicken dish that’s elegant, quick, and utterly irresistible, Ina Garten–style Marry Me Chicken fits the bill. Known for its creamy sun-dried tomato sauce and rich garlic-herb flavor, this dish earned its romantic nickname because it’s said to be so good, it could inspire a marriage proposal.

What Is Marry Me Chicken?

Marry Me Chicken is a skillet-seared chicken breast dish, smothered in a luxurious sauce of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, parmesan, and fresh herbs. Ina Garten’s version would likely use high-quality ingredients, minimal fuss, and balanced seasoning for a deeply flavorful, creamy main course.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten Chicken Milanese
• Ina Garten Chicken Marsala

Reasons to Try Ina Garten–Inspired Marry Me Chicken

• Elegant but easy – Great for weeknights or entertaining
• One-pan recipe – Minimal cleanup
• Rich, flavorful sauce – Made with pantry staples
• Ready in 35 minutes – From prep to plate
• Pairs with many sides – Pasta, potatoes, or veggies
• Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better the next day
• Perfect for date nights – Or impressing guests

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten’s Marry Me Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), sliced
• ¾ cup chicken stock
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for tang)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil (for garnish)

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten’s Marry Me Chicken

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden and just cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Flavor Base

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.

Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer the Sauce

Pour in the chicken stock and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits. Bring to a simmer and reduce slightly, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Cheese

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, parmesan, Dijon mustard (if using), and thyme. Let the sauce simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Return Chicken to the Pan

Place the seared chicken back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over each piece. Simmer for 5 more minutes on low heat until the chicken is heated through and coated in sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh basil and serve immediately.

What to Serve With Marry Me Chicken

• Buttered pasta or fettuccine – To soak up the sauce
• Mashed or roasted potatoes – Comforting and classic
• Steamed asparagus or green beans – Bright and crisp
• Garlic bread or focaccia – For extra indulgence
• Rice pilaf or couscous – Light and fluffy pairing
• Zucchini noodles – Low-carb option
• Simple arugula salad – With lemon vinaigrette

Expert Tips for Mastering the Recipe

• Don’t overcook the chicken – Use a thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F
• Use sun-dried tomatoes in oil – They add better texture and flavor
• Grate parmesan fresh – For best melting and taste
• Let the sauce simmer, not boil – Prevents separation
• Adjust sauce consistency with stock or cream – Add as needed
• Taste and season last – Parmesan and sun-dried tomatoes are salty
• Serve immediately for best results – Though leftovers are delicious too

Variations of the Recipe

• Add spinach or kale at the end – For extra greens
• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts – For deeper flavor
• Add mushrooms with the garlic – Earthy, savory addition
• Include white wine with stock – For extra acidity
• Make it spicy – Increase red pepper flakes or add chili oil
• Use coconut cream for dairy-free version – Adjust seasoning
• Top with mozzarella or provolone before serving – Cheesy twist

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerate in an airtight container – Keeps 3–4 days
• Reheat gently on the stove or microwave – Add broth if needed
• Freeze only if necessary – Sauce may separate slightly
• Use airtight containers and label – For meal prep ease
• Avoid boiling cream sauce – Reheat slowly
• Best served fresh, but leftovers are flavorful – Great for lunch

How Do I Reuse Leftover Marry Me Chicken?

• Slice over pasta with sauce – Instant dinner
• Serve with risotto or polenta – Elegant comfort
• Stuff into wraps or sandwiches – With greens or pesto
• Chop and add to a creamy soup – Enriches broth
• Top on a grain bowl – With roasted vegetables
• Turn into a baked pasta dish – Mix with noodles and cheese
• Serve over toast or English muffins – For a rich brunch

Nutritional Value (per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 510
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Sugar: 3g

FAQs

What makes Ina Garten’s Marry Me Chicken so flavorful?

The combination of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan, fresh herbs, and cream creates a rich and balanced sauce that infuses the chicken with savory, tangy, and slightly sweet notes.

Can I make Marry Me Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the dish fully and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and often stay juicier. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may take a few more minutes to cook through.

What can I serve with Ina Garten’s Marry Me Chicken?

Serve it with pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. Add a green vegetable or simple salad to balance the richness.

Final Words

Ina Garten–style Marry Me Chicken is rich, flavorful, and full of personality—just like the perfect partner. It’s the kind of meal that makes people ask for seconds and the recipe.

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