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If you’re searching for a delicious, creamy, and flavorful dinner that comes together in just one pan, look no further than Marry Me Chicken!
This viral dish, featuring juicy chicken in a rich sun-dried tomato and parmesan cream sauce, is the perfect weeknight meal.
Whether you’re a busy parent, a home cook looking for quick meals, or just someone who loves indulging in a comforting dish, these 10 one-pan Marry Me Chicken recipes will become your go-to dinners.
Why is it Called Marry Me Chicken?
The name Marry Me Chicken comes from its irresistible taste—so good that it might just inspire a marriage proposal!
The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and bold flavors makes this dish a must-try.
And when cooked in just one pan, cleanup is a breeze, making it even more appealing for weeknight dinners.
10 One-Pan Marry Me Chicken Recipes
1. Classic One-Pan Marry Me Chicken

This traditional recipe sticks to the basics: seared chicken breasts simmered in a creamy parmesan sauce with garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.
Serve it over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated parmesan
- ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sear until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté garlic, then add chicken broth, cream, parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Return chicken to the pan, cover, and simmer until cooked through.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
2. One-Pan Marry Me Chicken with Spinach

Adding spinach to Marry Me Chicken is a fantastic way to boost its nutritional value while keeping the creamy, indulgent texture intact.
Spinach is rich in iron, fiber, and antioxidants, making this dish both satisfying and wholesome.
Why Add Spinach?
- Nutrient-Rich: Spinach is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and iron.
- Balances the Creaminess: The slight bitterness of spinach complements the rich, cheesy sauce.
- Easy to Incorporate: Spinach wilts quickly, so it blends effortlessly into the dish.
How to Make It:
- Follow the classic Marry Me Chicken recipe, searing the chicken and making the creamy sauce.
- Just before returning the chicken to the pan, stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach.
- Let it wilt for about 1-2 minutes, then return the chicken to the skillet and let everything simmer together.
- Serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
💡 Tip: You can also swap spinach for kale if you prefer a heartier green!
3. Keto-Friendly Marry Me Chicken (Low-Carb & Gluten-Free)

If you’re on a keto diet or simply want to reduce your carb intake, this low-carb Marry Me Chicken recipe is the perfect solution.
By making a few easy swaps, you can enjoy all the creamy goodness without breaking your macros.
What Makes This Recipe Keto-Friendly?
✅ No flour or cornstarch: Instead of dredging the chicken in flour, simply sear it in olive oil for a crispy crust.
✅ Low-carb thickener: Use xanthan gum (about ½ teaspoon) instead of flour to thicken the sauce.
✅ Heavy cream & parmesan: These keto-friendly ingredients add rich flavor without the carbs.
✅ Pair with low-carb sides: Serve with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or roasted asparagus instead of pasta or rice.
How to Make It:
- Season and sear the chicken in olive oil, then remove it from the pan.
- Make the sauce by sautéing garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, then adding heavy cream and parmesan.
- Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of xanthan gum, stirring well to thicken the sauce.
- Return the chicken to the pan and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked.
- Serve with low-carb sides and enjoy a delicious, guilt-free Marry Me Chicken!
💡 Tip: If you love extra crunch, sprinkle crumbled crispy bacon on top before serving.
4. One-Pan Marry Me Chicken with Mushrooms

For a heartier, more earthy variation of Marry Me Chicken, mushrooms are the perfect addition.
They add an umami-rich depth of flavor while soaking up the creamy sauce beautifully.
Best Mushrooms for This Recipe:
- Cremini (Baby Bella): Slightly richer in flavor than white mushrooms.
- Portobello: A meatier texture, great for a filling meal.
- Shiitake: Earthy and slightly smoky, adding gourmet flair.
- White Button: A mild flavor that blends well with the sauce.
How to Make It:
- Follow the classic Marry Me Chicken recipe, but before making the sauce, sauté 1 cup of sliced mushrooms in the pan with olive oil.
- Once the mushrooms are softened, add garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, and parmesan.
- Stir everything together, return the chicken to the pan, and let it simmer until fully cooked.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot!
💡 Tip: For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine while sautéing the mushrooms.
5. Spicy One-Pan Marry Me Chicken

If you love dishes with a bit of heat, this spicy version of Marry Me Chicken will be your new favorite!
By adding extra spices and heat-enhancing ingredients, you can give this creamy dish a bold, fiery kick without overpowering the flavors.
How to Add Spice to Marry Me Chicken
🔥 Red Pepper Flakes: Increase the amount to 1 full teaspoon or more for extra heat.
🔥 Cayenne Pepper: Add ½ teaspoon for a smoky, lingering spice.
🔥 Hot Sauce: A splash of Sriracha, Tabasco, or Cholula intensifies the heat.
🔥 Jalapeños or Chili Peppers: Sauté sliced fresh jalapeños in the sauce for added spice and texture.
How to Make It:
- Follow the classic Marry Me Chicken recipe, but increase the red pepper flakes and add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper when seasoning the chicken.
- For even more spice, add a few splashes of hot sauce directly into the creamy sauce while it simmers.
- Optional: Sauté fresh jalapeño slices or crushed chili peppers with the garlic for an extra fiery twist.
- Return the chicken to the pan, simmer until fully cooked, and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
- Serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes and enjoy the spicy, creamy goodness!
💡 Tip: If you love smoky heat, swap regular paprika for smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
6. Dairy-Free Marry Me Chicken

Whether you’re lactose-intolerant or simply avoiding dairy, you can still enjoy a rich, creamy, and flavorful Marry Me Chicken without using traditional cream and cheese.
With a few simple swaps, you can make this dish completely dairy-free while keeping all the indulgent flavors intact.
Best Dairy-Free Substitutes for Marry Me Chicken
🥥 Coconut Cream: The best replacement for heavy cream, offering a thick, rich texture with a mild flavor.
🌰 Cashew Cream: Soaked and blended cashews create a creamy consistency without overpowering the dish.
🧀 Nutritional Yeast: A great alternative to parmesan cheese, adding a slightly cheesy, umami flavor.
🥛 Almond or Oat Milk: If you prefer a lighter version, unsweetened almond or oat milk works well as a substitute.
How to Make It:
- Sear the chicken as usual and remove it from the pan.
- Make a dairy-free sauce by replacing heavy cream with 1 cup of coconut cream or cashew cream and swapping parmesan cheese for 2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast.
- Let it simmer until thickened, then return the chicken to the pan and cook through.
- Serve with roasted vegetables, rice, or a dairy-free pasta alternative.
💡 Tip: If using coconut cream, choose unsweetened, full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest texture without a strong coconut flavor.
7. One-Pan Marry Me Chicken with Broccoli

For a healthier, veggie-packed version, try adding broccoli to Marry Me Chicken!
This not only makes the meal more nutritious but also ensures you get a well-balanced dinner in just one pan.
Why Add Broccoli?
🥦 Nutrient-Rich: Broccoli is high in vitamins C, K, and fiber, making your meal healthier.
🥦 Perfect for One-Pan Cooking: It steams beautifully in the creamy sauce, soaking up all the flavors.
🥦 Adds Texture: The slight crunch of broccoli balances the softness of the chicken and creaminess of the sauce.
How to Make It:
- Follow the classic Marry Me Chicken recipe, but before adding the chicken back to the pan, toss in 1½ cups of broccoli florets.
- Cover and let the broccoli steam in the sauce for 5-7 minutes until tender but still slightly crisp.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and allow everything to simmer together for maximum flavor absorption.
- Serve over pasta, quinoa, rice, or mashed potatoes for a well-rounded meal.
💡 Tip: If you prefer extra crispy broccoli, sauté it separately in olive oil before adding it to the dish.
8. Marry Me Chicken with Cajun Seasoning

If you love bold flavors and a bit of smoky heat, Cajun-style Marry Me Chicken is the perfect twist on the classic dish.
Cajun seasoning adds a rich depth of flavor with its blend of paprika, garlic, onion, and a hint of spice, making this dish irresistible.
What Makes Cajun Marry Me Chicken Special?
🌶 Smoky & Spicy Flavor: The Cajun spice blend gives the creamy sauce a bold and slightly fiery kick.
🍗 Extra Seasoned Chicken: Instead of just salt and pepper, Cajun seasoning enhances the flavor of the chicken itself.
🧄 Garlic-Infused Sauce: The Cajun twist pairs beautifully with the creamy, parmesan-infused sauce.
How to Make It:
- Season the chicken generously with Cajun seasoning (1 tbsp) before searing.
- Sear the chicken in olive oil over medium heat, then remove it from the pan.
- In the same pan, sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, then add chicken broth, heavy cream, and parmesan to create a rich sauce.
- Stir in ½ teaspoon extra Cajun seasoning for a smoky kick.
- Return the chicken to the pan, let it simmer, and serve over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice.
💡 Tip: For even more Louisiana flair, add sautéed bell peppers and onions to the dish!
9. Lemon-Garlic Marry Me Chicken

For a zesty and refreshing twist, try adding lemon and extra garlic to Marry Me Chicken!
The bright acidity of lemon juice balances the rich, creamy sauce, making this version a lighter yet equally indulgent meal.
Why Lemon & Garlic Work Well in Marry Me Chicken
🍋 Cuts Through the Richness: The citrusy acidity of lemon juice balances the creamy sauce, preventing it from feeling too heavy.
🧄 Boosts Flavor Naturally: Extra garlic enhances the savory depth of the dish.
🌱 Pairs Well with Herbs: Lemon-garlic flavors blend beautifully with fresh basil, thyme, or parsley.
How to Make It:
- Season and sear the chicken in olive oil, then remove it from the pan.
- Sauté 4 cloves of minced garlic in the pan for a more intense garlicky flavor.
- Make the sauce by adding chicken broth, heavy cream, and parmesan, then squeeze in the juice of one fresh lemon (about 2 tbsp).
- Return the chicken to the skillet, let it simmer, and serve with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.
- Garnish with fresh basil, parsley, or thyme for an extra fresh touch.
💡 Tip: If you love extra zest, add lemon slices to the pan while the chicken simmers for a beautiful presentation and more citrusy flavor.
10. One-Pan Marry Me Chicken with Bacon

Because everything is better with bacon, right?
This bacon-infused version of Marry Me Chicken takes the classic recipe to another level by adding crispy, smoky bacon for extra texture and flavor.
Why Bacon is the Perfect Addition
🥓 Smoky & Savory: The crispy bacon adds a deep, smoky flavor that enhances the cream sauce.
🤩 Crunchy Texture: Bacon provides a satisfying contrast to the creamy sauce and tender chicken.
🍗 Pairs Perfectly with Parmesan & Garlic: The salty bacon complements the cheesy and garlicky elements of the dish.
How to Make It:
- Cook 4-5 slices of bacon in a large skillet until crispy, then remove and chop into small pieces.
- In the same pan (using some of the bacon grease for extra flavor), sear the chicken until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Make the creamy sauce by adding garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, and parmesan.
- Stir in the crispy bacon bits, then return the chicken to the skillet.
- Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
💡 Tip: For even more indulgence, top the finished dish with extra bacon crumbles and shredded parmesan!
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken

One of the best things about Marry Me Chicken is how versatile it is when it comes to serving options.
Whether you’re looking for a hearty, indulgent meal or a lighter, low-carb option, there’s a perfect pairing for every preference.
Here are some of the best ways to serve Marry Me Chicken to make the most of its rich, creamy sauce and juicy, flavorful chicken.
1. Over Pasta – A Classic Pairing 🍝
Why It Works: The creamy parmesan sauce coats pasta beautifully, making it one of the most popular ways to enjoy Marry Me Chicken.
✅ Best Pasta Choices:
- Fettuccine – Its thick, flat shape holds onto the creamy sauce well.
- Penne – A great option if you want every bite to capture the sauce.
- Linguine or Spaghetti – Long pasta strands work well with this dish.
- Rigatoni – The ridged surface helps soak up the sauce.
💡 Pro Tip: Cook the pasta al dente, then toss it directly into the sauce before serving for the best flavor.
2. With Mashed Potatoes – Pure Comfort Food 🥔
Why It Works: The rich, velvety sauce of Marry Me Chicken pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty, comforting meal.
✅ Mashed Potato Variations:
- Classic Buttery Mashed Potatoes – Smooth and fluffy with a hint of garlic.
- Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes – Extra indulgent with parmesan and roasted garlic.
- Mashed Sweet Potatoes – A slightly sweet and healthier alternative.
- Cauliflower Mash – A low-carb, keto-friendly swap for traditional potatoes.
💡 Pro Tip: Make a shallow well in your mashed potatoes and pour extra sauce on top for the perfect bite every time.
3. Served with Rice – A Hearty & Filling Option 🍚
Why It Works: Rice absorbs all the delicious creamy sauce, making every bite flavorful and satisfying.
✅ Best Rice Options:
- Steamed White Rice – A neutral base that lets the sauce shine.
- Garlic Butter Rice – Infused with extra flavor to complement the dish.
- Brown Rice – A whole-grain option for added fiber and nutrients.
- Coconut Rice – Adds a hint of sweetness that balances the richness of the dish.
💡 Pro Tip: Cook your rice in chicken broth instead of water for extra depth of flavor.
4. With Roasted or Steamed Vegetables – A Healthy Balance 🥦🥕
Why It Works: Adding vegetables to your plate balances out the richness of the dish while providing extra nutrients.
✅ Best Vegetables to Serve with Marry Me Chicken:
- Roasted Broccoli or Asparagus – Slightly crisp with a nutty flavor.
- Steamed Green Beans – A light and fresh option.
- Sautéed Spinach or Kale – Wilts beautifully and soaks up the sauce.
- Zucchini Noodles – A great low-carb alternative to pasta.
💡 Pro Tip: Toss roasted vegetables with a little olive oil, garlic, and parmesan to enhance their flavor and complement the dish.
5. With Crusty Bread – Perfect for Soaking Up Sauce 🥖
Why It Works: A slice of crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce, ensuring you don’t waste a drop of that delicious flavor.
✅ Best Bread Options:
- Garlic Bread – Buttery, garlicky, and perfect for dipping.
- French Baguette – Crispy on the outside, soft inside.
- Ciabatta – Absorbs the sauce beautifully without getting too soggy.
- Dinner Rolls – Soft and pillowy, ideal for pairing with rich dishes.
💡 Pro Tip: Lightly toast the bread with olive oil and garlic for extra flavor.
6. Over Gnocchi – A Unique & Indulgent Option 🍽
Why It Works: Soft, pillowy potato gnocchi pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy sauce of Marry Me Chicken, making for an ultra-indulgent meal.
✅ Why You Should Try It:
- Gnocchi’s soft texture soaks up the sauce like a dream.
- It feels gourmet and special, yet it’s still easy to prepare.
- You can use classic potato gnocchi or cauliflower gnocchi for a lower-carb alternative.
💡 Pro Tip: Lightly pan-fry the gnocchi before adding it to the sauce for a slightly crispy, golden exterior.
7. With Quinoa – A Protein-Packed, Healthy Option 🍲
Why It Works: Quinoa is a high-protein, gluten-free grain that makes this dish a bit lighter while still keeping it satisfying.
✅ Benefits of Quinoa with Marry Me Chicken:
- More protein than rice or pasta.
- Adds a slight nuttiness that enhances the dish’s flavor.
- Keeps the meal gluten-free and nutritious.
💡 Pro Tip: Cook quinoa in chicken broth instead of water to infuse it with extra flavor.
8. Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly Options 🥑
For those on a low-carb or keto diet, Marry Me Chicken can still be enjoyed by pairing it with these healthier options:
✅ Best Low-Carb Pairings:
- Cauliflower Rice – A great swap for traditional rice.
- Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles) – A pasta alternative that soaks up the creamy sauce.
- Mashed Cauliflower – A lighter, keto-friendly option instead of mashed potatoes.
- Sauteed Greens (Spinach, Kale, Swiss Chard) – Nutritious and pairs well with creamy sauces.
💡 Pro Tip: If you want a thicker sauce for a keto version, use xanthan gum instead of flour as a thickening agent.
These 10 one-pan Marry Me Chicken recipes prove that you can enjoy gourmet-quality meals with minimal effort and cleanup.
Whether you prefer the classic version or want to try a creative twist, this dish is sure to impress.
Try one tonight and see why Marry Me Chicken has become a must-have in home kitchens everywhere!

One-Pan Marry Me Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Large Skillet (cast-iron or stainless steel works best)
- Tongs (for flipping chicken)
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
- Knife & Cutting Board
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for spice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
Sear the Chicken:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
- In the same pan, sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the sun-dried tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pan.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the parmesan cheese, oregano, paprika, red pepper flakes, and black pepper.
Simmer the Chicken:
- Return the chicken to the pan and let it simmer in the sauce for 8-10 minutes.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with fresh basil and serve hot over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Serving Suggestions:
- Classic: Over fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti for a comforting pasta dish.
- Low-Carb: Pair with zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or steamed greens.
- Rustic Style: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Other Option:
- Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and replace parmesan with nutritional yeast.
- Low-Carb Version: Serve with cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower instead of pasta or rice.
- Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a bolder flavor.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~480
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 32g
Notes
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