Marry Me One Pan Chicken

The name alone made my skeptical roommate pause midway through chopping vegetables. Id found this recipe scrawled in the back of my grandmothers recipe box though knowing her practical nature she probably cut it from a magazine decades ago. That first evening I made it the sauce simmered away filling our tiny apartment with such an incredible aroma that we ended up eating straight from the pan standing around the stove.

I first made this for my sister who was visiting during a particularly stressful work week. She took one bite put down her fork and actually said okay this changes everything. Now whenever she comes over she jokingly asks if Im making the chicken that made her forgive her ex boyfriend.

Ingredients

• Boneless chicken breasts: Pat them completely dry before seasoning for the best golden sear
• Salt black pepper and garlic powder: This simple trio creates the classic flavor foundation
• Olive oil: Use a light neutral oil that can handle medium high heat without smoking
• Unsalted butter: Control your salt levels by starting with unsalted butter
• Fresh garlic: Dont use pre minced garlic here the fresh stuff matters
• Sun dried tomatoes in oil: Drain them well and slice them into thin strips
• Dried oregano and thyme: These Mediterranean herbs bloom beautifully in the cream sauce
• Chicken broth: Use a good quality broth you enjoy drinking on its own
• Heavy cream: The full fat version is essential for that velvety luxurious texture
• Freshly grated Parmesan: Pre grated cheese doesnt melt the same way so grate it yourself
• Red pepper flakes: Just a whisper of heat to balance the rich cream
• Fresh basil: Add this at the very end to maintain its bright fresh flavor

Instructions

Season the chicken:

Sprinkle both sides of each breast with salt pepper and garlic powder pressing gently so the seasoning adheres

Sear until golden:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat add chicken and cook 4 to 5 minutes per side until deeply golden brown but not cooked through

Build the sauce base:

Reduce heat to medium melt butter then stir in garlic cooking just 1 minute until fragrant but not brown

Add the tomatoes and herbs:

Toss in the sliced sun dried tomatoes oregano and thyme sautéing for 1 to 2 minutes to wake up their oils

Create the cream sauce:

Pour in chicken broth scraping up any browned bits then stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer

Thicken with cheese:

Add Parmesan and red pepper flakes stirring until cheese melts and sauce coats the back of a spoon about 3 minutes

Finish cooking together:

Return chicken to the pan reduce heat to low cover and simmer 8 to 10 minutes until chicken is cooked through

Add fresh basil:

Stir in chopped basil right before serving to preserve its vibrant color and flavor

Save

My partner proposed the night I served this though Id like to think it was the chicken not just the ring timing. Sometimes the best recipes are the ones that become part of your story.

Making It Your Own

Ive discovered that swapping in boneless chicken thighs makes the dish even more forgiving if you get distracted mid cook. The extra fat keeps everything incredibly tender.

Serving Suggestions

A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio cuts through the richness beautifully. I also love serving this over garlic mashed potatoes or simply with crusty bread to mop up every last drop of that sauce.

Storage And Reheating

This keeps remarkably well for up to three days though the sauce will thicken in the refrigerator. When reheating add a splash of cream or broth to bring it back to that silky consistency.

• Reheat gently over low heat stirring frequently
• The flavors actually develop and deepen overnight
• Avoid microwaving which can cause the sauce to separate

Save

Whether its for a special occasion or just because you deserve something wonderful this recipe has a way of making any evening feel like a celebration.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier texture. Adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure they cook through.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This creamy chicken pairs well with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to absorb the flavorful sauce.

→ How do I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce a few minutes longer to reduce and thicken or add a small amount of grated Parmesan cheese to enhance creaminess.

→ Is the dish gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients as listed are gluten-free, but always verify labels if you have a sensitive gluten intolerance.

→ Can I add spice to the sauce?

Yes, adding red pepper flakes during the sauce simmer adds a subtle heat without overpowering the flavors.