Marry Me Chicken & Rice: A One-Pan Dinner That Won My Family Over

There’s a running joke in my house that I could propose to my husband again with this dish—and he’d say “yes” even faster. This Marry Me Chicken and Rice is creamy, comforting, and deeply satisfying… and the best part? It’s all done in one pan in under 35 minutes.

I first tried something like this years ago when I was newly married, juggling two jobs and a tiny budget. We didn’t have a dishwasher, so anything one-pan was gold. One chilly evening, I threw together some chicken, rice, pantry spices, and a splash of cream. My husband took one bite, looked up, and said, “If you made this on our first date, we would’ve been engaged sooner.” I laughed—and wrote the recipe down.

Years later, this dish still hits the table at least twice a month. It’s simple, hearty, and tastes way fancier than it costs.

Ingredients (Feeds 4–6)

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-size cubes (budget tip: thighs work just as well—and they’re cheaper!)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp EACH: onion powder, garlic powder
• ½ tsp EACH: salt, pepper, oregano, thyme
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (get the kind packed in oil—it’s more flavorful!)
• 1 cup long grain white rice, rinsed
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• Parmesan cheese & parsley for garnish (optional but pretty)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the chicken.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add butter and cubed chicken. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, onion powder, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the chicken is browned and nearly done.

2. Add the flavor punch.
Stir in garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Let it sizzle for about 1 minute.

3. Make it creamy & cozy.
Add rinsed rice and chicken broth. Stir, bring to a gentle boil, then cover and reduce to medium-low. Simmer for 15–20 minutes or until rice is cooked through, stirring once or twice.

4. Stir in the good stuff.
Pour in the heavy cream and ¾ cup of mozzarella. Stir gently to melt.

5. Top & finish.
Sprinkle with the remaining cheese and cover for 5 minutes or pop under the broiler to get that bubbly, golden finish.

6. Garnish & serve.
Top with Parmesan and dried parsley. Serve with peas, green beans, or a simple salad.

Tips & Substitutions

• Rice options: White rice cooks evenly, but brown rice needs longer. Add 10-15 minutes and more broth if subbing.
• Dairy-free? Sub the cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative.
• No sun-dried tomatoes? Roasted red peppers or sautéed mushrooms work beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This

• One pan = fewer dishes
• Kid-approved, husband-devoured
• Cozy comfort food that tastes like a hug
• Freezes well & reheats like a dream

Final Thoughts: One Skillet, A Whole Lotta Love

There’s just something magical about a meal that brings everyone to the table—without breaking the bank or leaving you with a sink full of dishes. Marry Me Chicken & Rice isn’t just a recipe; it’s one of those feel-good meals that sticks—in your memory, in your recipe box, and yes, probably on your weekly meal plan.

Whether you’re feeding your family, cooking for date night, or just trying to make leftovers worth looking forward to, this dish delivers all the comfort of a home-cooked meal with the ease of a one-pan wonder. It’s creamy, cozy, and packed with flavor—no ring required.

So next time you’re staring at that pack of chicken and wondering what to make, just remember: dinner doesn’t have to be complicated to be unforgettable.

FAQ: All About Marry Me Chicken (and Rice!)

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