Pioneer Woman Marry Me Chicken: The Creamy Tuscan Recipe That Wins Hearts

This isn’t just chicken; it’s a culinary proposal on a plate. Creamy Tuscan Chicken, often dubbed “Marry Me Chicken” for its irresistible allure, is a dish that promises deliciousness and delivers every single time. Imagine tender chicken breasts swimming in a luscious, creamy Parmesan sauce, vibrant with juicy tomatoes, fresh spinach, and aromatic herbs. All crafted in one skillet for minimal fuss and maximum flavor. This is comfort food elevated, and it’s easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for company.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken in skillet on table.

You might be wondering about the name – “Marry Me Chicken.” The legend goes that this dish is so incredibly delicious, so utterly captivating, that anyone who tastes it will immediately want to propose marriage. While we can’t guarantee a proposal, we can guarantee a truly unforgettable meal. And if you’re a fan of Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman, you know she’s all about heartwarming, flavorful, and approachable recipes. This Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe embodies that spirit perfectly, making it a dish that would undoubtedly earn a spot in her repertoire. It’s the kind of food that brings people together, makes weeknights feel special, and leaves everyone asking for seconds.

Serve this creamy chicken masterpiece over a bed of perfectly cooked pasta, creamy mashed potatoes, or soft polenta to soak up every drop of that incredible sauce. Pair it with a side of Parmesan roasted broccoli or some crusty garlic bread to complete the comforting Italian-inspired experience. Trust us, this Pioneer Woman-esque “Marry Me Chicken” is about to become a new family favorite.

What Makes This “Marry Me Chicken” So Special?

The beauty of this Tuscan chicken recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmonious blend of classic Italian flavors. It’s not about complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. Instead, it’s about using fresh, quality components to create a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. The term “Tuscan chicken” itself evokes the rustic charm and rich flavors of Tuscany, a region in Italy celebrated for its olive oil, tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs – all stars in this recipe.

This particular “Marry Me Chicken” recipe captures the essence of Tuscan cooking with ingredients like olive oil, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and a medley of fragrant herbs. The creamy sauce, enriched with chicken broth and heavy cream, binds everything together into a symphony of flavors and textures. It’s a dish that’s both deeply satisfying and surprisingly light, thanks to the fresh spinach and tomatoes.

And about that name again – “Marry Me Chicken.” It’s a testament to the dish’s ability to impress and delight. Whether you’re cooking for a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or simply a weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to win hearts and spark conversations. It’s a dish that says “I care,” “I can cook,” and “Prepare to be amazed!” It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for anyone who appreciates good food and simple pleasures, just like the Pioneer Woman herself champions.

The Key Ingredients for Irresistible Marry Me Chicken

To create this magical “Marry Me Chicken,” you’ll need a handful of fresh, flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the dish’s signature taste and texture:

All-Purpose Flour: A light dusting of flour before cooking gives the chicken cutlets a beautiful golden crust and helps to slightly thicken the creamy sauce as it simmers.
Thin-Sliced Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Thin cutlets cook quickly and evenly, ensuring tender and juicy chicken in every bite. You can buy them pre-sliced or easily slice thicker breasts in half yourself.
Olive Oil: The foundation of many great Italian dishes, olive oil adds richness and flavor. Butter can be used for a richer taste, but olive oil keeps it closer to that authentic Tuscan feel.
Fresh Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with its pungent and aromatic essence. Freshly minced cloves are key for the best flavor – skip the pre-minced jars if possible.
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Broth enhances the savory depth of the sauce. Low-sodium allows you to control the saltiness of the final dish.
Heavy Cream: The secret to the “marry me” magic! Heavy cream creates the lush, velvety sauce that coats the chicken and vegetables. It provides richness, body, and that beautiful creamy color.
Fresh Basil and Oregano: These quintessential Italian herbs bring a burst of freshness and aromatic complexity. You can use dried herbs if fresh aren’t available, but fresh herbs will elevate the dish’s flavor.
Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a salty, nutty, and savory dimension to the sauce. Use good quality Parmesan and grate it finely for smooth melting.
Fresh Spinach: Spinach adds a pop of color, subtle earthy flavor, and healthy greens to the dish. It wilts down beautifully into the creamy sauce.
Cherry or Grape Tomatoes: These little tomatoes offer a burst of sweetness and acidity that balances the richness of the cream sauce. They also add vibrant color and visual appeal.
Optional Pasta or Orzo: Serve over pasta, orzo, mashed potatoes, or polenta to make it a complete and satisfying meal.
Fresh Parsley: A final sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a touch of freshness and restaurant-style flair just before serving.

Woman using tongs to dredge chicken in flour.

How to Make Pioneer Woman “Marry Me Chicken” – Step-by-Step

This recipe is surprisingly simple and comes together in just about 45 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special.

Prepare the Chicken: In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the floured chicken cutlets to the skillet in a single layer (work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan). Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and just cooked through. The chicken should still be slightly pink in the center at this stage as it will continue to cook in the sauce. Transfer the seared chicken to a plate and set aside.
Sauté Garlic and Deglaze the Pan: Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This “deglazing” process adds a ton of flavor to the sauce.

Sauteing garlic and adding chicken stock to pan on stove.

Create the Creamy Tuscan Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, dried basil, and dried oregano (or fresh, if using). Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, sprinkling it slowly while stirring to ensure it melts smoothly into the sauce. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
Add Spinach and Tomatoes: Stir in the fresh spinach and halved cherry tomatoes. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are slightly softened and heated through.

Adding cherry tomatoes and spinach to creamy pan sauce and stirring.

Return Chicken to the Sauce: Gently nestle the seared chicken cutlets back into the skillet with the creamy sauce, along with any juices that may have accumulated on the plate. Ensure the chicken is mostly submerged in the sauce.
Simmer and Finish: Continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and cooked completely. The sauce will further thicken and the flavors will meld together beautifully.
Serve and Garnish: Serve the Creamy Tuscan Chicken immediately over your choice of pasta, orzo, mashed potatoes, or polenta. Garnish with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Plate of Creamy Tuscan Chicken over noodles.

Variations to Make It Your Own

One of the great things about this “Marry Me Chicken” recipe is its versatility. Feel free to adapt it to your preferences and what you have on hand:

Sun-Dried Tomatoes: For an even more intense Tuscan flavor, add ½ cup of oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped, along with the fresh cherry tomatoes.
Italian Seasoning: If you don’t have fresh or dried basil and oregano, you can substitute 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning blend.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick of heat.
Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for added earthiness and texture.
Different Greens: Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a different leafy green option. Just be sure to cook heartier greens a bit longer until tender.
Wine Infusion: For a richer sauce, deglaze the pan with ½ cup of dry white wine before adding the chicken broth. Let it reduce slightly before proceeding with the recipe.

Serving Suggestions for Pioneer Woman Marry Me Chicken

This creamy Tuscan chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides:

Pasta: Classic pasta shapes like spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or farfalle are all excellent choices for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Orzo: Orzo pasta, with its rice-like shape, is another fantastic option that works beautifully with creamy sauces.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting and satisfying base for the rich chicken and sauce.
Polenta: Soft and creamy polenta is a wonderful Italian alternative to mashed potatoes.
Rice: Serve over white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa for a lighter option.
Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread is perfect for scooping up every last bit of the creamy sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted broccoli, asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy and balanced meal. A simple side salad also works well.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Leftover “Marry Me Chicken” is just as delicious the next day! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To reheat: Gently reheat the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat until heated through. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce slightly. Avoid overheating, as the cream sauce can sometimes separate if heated too aggressively. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.

FAQs About Marry Me Chicken

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

While heavy cream is key to the richness of the sauce, you can substitute with half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk for a slightly lighter version. The sauce won’t be quite as thick or decadent, but it will still be delicious.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried herbs if fresh aren’t available. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano in place of the fresh amounts. Remember that dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor, so you need less.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the creamy Tuscan sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and then cook the chicken and add the spinach and tomatoes as directed in the recipe. For the best results, it’s recommended to cook the chicken closer to serving time to maintain its tenderness.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

As written, this recipe is not gluten-free due to the all-purpose flour used to dredge the chicken. To make it gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or simply omit the flour dredging step altogether. The chicken will still be delicious, just without the crispy crust. Ensure your pasta or side dish is also gluten-free if needed.

Enjoy creating this Pioneer Woman-inspired “Marry Me Chicken” in your own kitchen! It’s a recipe that’s sure to impress and satisfy, bringing a taste of Tuscan sunshine to your table.

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Creamy Tuscan Chicken in a skillet.

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Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe

By: Katie Workman

Tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich and creamy Parmesan sauce with tomatoes, spinach, and herbs. A one-skillet wonder!

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 people

Ingredients

½ cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons kosher salt (plus more to taste)
1 teaspoon ground black pepper (plus more to taste)
1 ½ pounds thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1/2 inch thick)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon finely minced garlic
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
¾ cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (or 2 teaspoons dried)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried)
½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
2 cups chopped fresh spinach
1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes (halved or quartered if large)
½ pound orzo or cooked hot pasta (optional)
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Combine the flour, salt, and pepper in a shallow bowl or tray.
Heat the olive oil in a very large skillet over medium-high heat. Dredge the chicken cutlets in the seasoned flour mixture, and once the oil is hot, cook the cutlets in the pan for about 2 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and almost but not quite cooked through (a bit pink in the center). Transfer the cutlets to a large plate as they are cooked.
Turn the heat down to medium and add the garlic. Stir for just one minute until you can smell the garlic. Add the chicken broth and stir so that any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan are released into the liquid. Stir in the cream, basil, and oregano, and gradually add the Parmesan, sprinkling it slowly as you stir. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 4 minutes.
Stir in the spinach and tomatoes, and simmer for another 2 minutes or so, until the spinach is wilted and everything is well combined. Tuck the chicken back in the pan with any juices that may have collected, making sure it is at least mostly covered by the sauce. Cook for 2 more minutes until the chicken is hot and cooked through.
Either serve the chicken over the hot pasta or transfer it to a serving dish. Sprinkle with the parsley, and serve hot with extra Parmesan passed on the side.

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Notes

Serve this over pasta or starch of your choice — rice, quinoa, or polenta would also be great.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days and then reheated over low heat in a skillet until hot throughout.

Nutrition

Calories: 553kcal, Carbohydrates: 22g, Protein: 45g, Fat: 32g, Saturated Fat: 14g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g, Monounsaturated Fat: 11g, Trans Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 170mg, Sodium: 1851mg, Potassium: 1125mg, Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 5g, Vitamin A: 3193IU, Vitamin C: 39mg, Calcium: 214mg, Iron: 4mg

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