Irresistible Marry Me Chicken Thighs Recipe

Looking for a dish that will make everyone at the table fall head over heels? Look no further than these Marry Me Chicken Thighs. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, marrying the golden crispiness of seared chicken thighs with a luscious sun-dried tomato sauce that’s both comforting and elegant. From cozy family dinners to special celebrations, this dish has a way of bringing people together with its unforgettable flavors.

I still remember the first time I made Marry Me Chicken for my family. The aroma of garlic, thyme, and Parmesan wafting through the kitchen had everyone eagerly waiting at the table. From the crispy chicken skin to the creamy tang of the sun-dried tomato sauce, every bite is a harmonious blend of flavors that keeps you coming back for more. It’s no wonder this dish has earned its reputation as a modern classic, rumored to be so delicious it might just inspire a marriage proposal!

Whether you’re serving this delectable dish over garlic mashed potatoes, buttery noodles, or a bed of greens, each bite is a delightful mix of comfort and sophistication. So, why not treat your loved ones to a restaurant-worthy meal right at home? With these Marry Me Chicken Thighs, every bite is a declaration of love through food.

Quick Benefits

• Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs result in juicy texture and deep flavor in the dish.
• The recipe allows for flexibility with ingredient substitutions like replacing white wine with extra chicken broth or apple cider vinegar.
• Boneless thighs work well too, but may require adjustments in cooking time for optimal results.
• The creamy sauce made with heavy cream and fresh Parmesan delivers a smooth, velvety finish to the dish.

Why You’ll Love This Irresistible Marry Me Chicken Thighs Recipe Recipe

• Luxurious Flavors: The creamy sun-dried tomato sauce paired with perfectly seasoned seared chicken thighs creates a rich and indulgent flavor profile that feels like a special treat.
• Quick and Easy: Despite tasting like a dish from a fancy restaurant, this recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
• Crowd Pleaser: This dish has the power to convert even the pickiest eaters into fans, making it a great option for family meals or entertaining friends.
• Leftovers Welcome: The sauce holds up well in the fridge for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy the delicious flavors multiple times. It even freezes well for future meals.
• Versatile Options: You can customize the recipe by using boneless thighs, swapping ingredients like spinach for sun-dried tomatoes, or adjusting the creaminess level to suit your preferences.
• Restaurant-Quality Meal: Pairing this dish with garlic mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or a side salad creates a complete dining experience that feels like dining out at a high-end restaurant but in the comfort of your own home.
• Romantic Touch: Dubbed “Marry Me Chicken” for its rumored proposal-inducing flavors, this dish adds a touch of elegance and glamour to any meal, making it a perfect choice for celebrating special occasions or just showing love through a delicious dinner.

Ingredients for Irresistible Marry Me Chicken Thighs Recipe

Main

• Black pepper, to taste
• Garlic powder, to taste
• 900 grams bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Onion powder, to taste

Aromatics & Herbs

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 0.5 teaspoon dried basil
• 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 60 grams onion, finely chopped
• 5 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce

• 60 grams sun-dried tomatoes, finely minced
• 60 grams Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 60 millilitres dry white wine
• 180 millilitres chicken stock
• 120 millilitres heavy cream

To Finish

• Fresh parsley, chopped, to garnish

Pro Tips for Irresistible Marry Me Chicken Thighs Recipe

Pro Tip 1: To ensure juicy and flavorful chicken, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for this recipe. The skin will crisp up nicely while cooking, adding extra texture and flavor to the dish.

Pro Tip 2: If you prefer not to use white wine, you can substitute it with extra chicken broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar to maintain the acidity in the sauce. This tweak will still result in a deliciously balanced flavor profile.

Pro Tip 3: For a velvety and smooth sauce, opt for heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir them until fully melted and combined to achieve the perfect creamy consistency that complements the chicken thighs beautifully.

How to Make Irresistible Marry Me Chicken Thighs Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 190°C.

Step 2: Season Chicken Thighs

Dry chicken thighs and season with salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder on both sides.

Step 3: Sear Chicken

In a cast iron skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs, starting with the skin-side down, for about 4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare Aromatics

Discard excess oil from the skillet, leaving 2 tablespoons. Reduce heat to medium, then add onion, thyme, oregano, red pepper flakes, and basil. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Add Garlic

Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 6: Deglaze and Build Sauce

Add white wine to the pan and let it reduce slightly, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in chicken stock, heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer.

Step 7: Return Chicken and Bake

Place seared chicken thighs in the sauce, skin side up. Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of at least 74°C.

Step 8: Finish and Serve

Take the skillet out of the oven. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving hot with your choice of side dish.

Storage Tips

To store the finished Marry Me Chicken Thighs, allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. The creamy sun-dried tomato sauce can be refrigerated for up to three days. When ready to enjoy the leftovers, gently reheat them on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to maintain the best texture. If freezing, it’s recommended to separate the chicken from the sauce and thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Boneless chicken thighs or breasts can be used instead of bone-in thighs, but you may sacrifice some flavor and moisture. For a lighter version of the creamy sauce, consider using half and half. You can also swap sun-dried tomatoes for spinach or kale for a green twist. If you prefer to omit wine, you can increase the amount of chicken broth and add a dash of lemon juice for acidity. When serving, consider pairing the dish with garlic mashed potatoes, steamed rice, buttered noodles, or mashed cauliflower to soak up the delicious sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

To adapt this Marry Me Chicken Thighs recipe to suit dietary preferences or ingredient availability, here are some helpful substitutions you can consider. If you prefer not to use white wine, you can easily swap it out for extra chicken broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar to maintain the acidity in the dish. This substitution still adds depth of flavor without compromising the overall taste of the sauce.

While bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are recommended for their juicy texture and flavor, boneless thighs can be used as a substitute. Just keep in mind that boneless thighs may cook a bit faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through. Additionally, if you prefer a lighter cream sauce, you can try using half and half instead of heavy cream for a slightly lower fat option.

For a variation on the traditional recipe, consider swapping out the sun-dried tomatoes for spinach or kale for a green twist. This substitution adds a fresh, vibrant element to the dish while still maintaining the overall balance of flavors. Whether you choose to stick with the original ingredients or try these substitutions, this Marry Me Chicken Thighs recipe is sure to impress with its rich, creamy sauce and flavorful chicken.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try plating the Marry Me Chicken Thighs over a bed of creamy garlic mashed potatoes, allowing the savory sun-dried tomato sauce to seep into the fluffy potatoes for a burst of flavor in every bite. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Pair this dish with a side of sautéed greens or a crisp salad to balance out the richness of the creamy sauce.

Another delightful way to enjoy the Marry Me Chicken Thighs is to serve them alongside a bowl of buttery noodles, allowing the noodles to soak up the luscious sauce and enhance the overall dining experience. Add a side of crusty bread for dipping into the velvety sauce, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that feels like a special treat at home.

FAQs for Irresistible Marry Me Chicken Thighs Recipe

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?

Boneless thighs work well too but may cook a bit faster. Adjust baking time accordingly.

Can I replace white wine in the recipe?

Yes, you can replace white wine with extra chicken broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity.

Is it possible to prepare the dish ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare up to the baking step, refrigerate, then bake before serving for fresh flavor and texture.

What are some recommended side dishes to serve with Marry Me Chicken?

Garlic mashed potatoes, steamed rice, buttered noodles, or mashed cauliflower complement the savory sauce.

Conclusion

As you sit down to enjoy your tender, flavorful Marry Me Chicken Thighs, remember that food has a magical way of bringing people together. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a regular weeknight, this dish has a way of making every meal feel like a celebration. The creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, paired with perfectly seared chicken, is sure to win the hearts of your loved ones and turn any meal into a memorable experience.

So go ahead, invite your family and friends to the table, and savor each bite of this delightful dish. Let the rich flavors and comforting aromas fill your home with warmth and joy. Marry Me Chicken Thighs has a way of creating moments that are worth cherishing, and I hope it becomes a beloved recipe in your own kitchen, sparking smiles and maybe even a few marriage proposals along the way.