There's something truly heartwarming about a dish that can bring everyone together at the dinner table. As the sun sets and the day winds down, my kitchen transforms into a haven where flavors meld and laughter echoes. Enter Whole30 Marry Me Chicken—a culinary creation that has a magical effect on all who taste it.

Picture this: tender chicken seeping in a rich, creamy coconut sauce, brightened by sun-dried tomatoes and a hint of garlic. This dish not only satisfies those comfort food cravings but also accommodates gluten-free and dairy-free diets without skimping on taste.

After a busy day, I find solace in whipping up this effortless meal, which transforms even the most chaotic evenings into something special. Perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying with loved ones, Whole30 Marry Me Chicken proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be bland or boring. Join me as we dive into this easy, flavorful recipe that might just become your new weeknight favorite!

Why is Whole30 Marry Me Chicken a Must-Try?

Deliciously Creamy: With its rich coconut sauce and sun-dried tomatoes, the flavor is positively irresistible.

Diet-Friendly: This dish fits effortlessly into Whole30, paleo, keto, and gluten-free lifestyles, making it perfect for a wide array of eaters.

Quick & Easy: Whip it up in no time, ensuring you save precious minutes during busy weeknights without sacrificing taste.

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this dish garners rave reviews and keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your choice of protein or add extra veggies to make it your own. This healthy chicken dinner delivers nothing but satisfaction!

Endearing Presentation: Serve it over cauliflower rice or vibrant veggies, and you’ve got a beautiful meal that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat!

Whole30 Marry Me Chicken Ingredients

• For the Sauce

Chilled full-fat unsweetened canned coconut cream – creates a luscious, creamy sauce; ensure only the solid part is used.
Chicken broth – provides depth and moisture; low-sodium broth is best for controlling salt content.
Nutritional yeast – imparts a cheesy flavor without dairy, making this a great addition for a Whole30 recipe.
Dried oregano – adds an aromatic touch; Italian seasoning can serve as a suitable alternative.
Arrowroot or potato starch – acts as a thickening agent for the creamy sauce; cornstarch can be substituted if necessary.

• For the Chicken

Olive oil or avocado oil – adds healthy fats for cooking; coconut oil can be a good substitute if preferred.
Boneless skinless chicken breast (1.5 lbs) – the main protein source, providing texture; use chicken thighs for a juicier bite.
Garlic salt – enhances flavor; regular salt can be used if garlic salt is unavailable.
Black pepper – adds a hint of spice; adjust to your taste preferences.
Fresh minced garlic – contributes aromatic flavor towards the end of cooking; garlic powder works as a substitute if needed.
Sun-dried tomatoes (1 jar, 8 oz) – provides a sweet-tart flavor; consider fresh tomatoes for a lighter option.

• For Serving (Optional)

Fresh basil – adds a fresh aroma and flavor; can be skipped if you don’t have it on hand.

How to Make Whole30 Marry Me Chicken

Heat the Skillet:
Begin by heating olive or avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This should take a minute or two—just enough to get it nice and glistening!
Cook the Chicken:
Add the cubed boneless, skinless chicken breast to the skillet. Season with 2 teaspoons of garlic salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Toss in the minced garlic in the last minute of cooking for an aromatic boost.
Whisk the Sauce:
While the chicken is cooking, grab a bowl and whisk together the chilled full-fat coconut cream, chicken broth, nutritional yeast, dried oregano, and 1 tablespoon of arrowroot or potato starch until smooth.
Prepare the Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
After draining and blotting, chop the sun-dried tomatoes to eliminate any excess oil. This step adds clarity to the flavors in your dish.
Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, followed by your whipped sauce mixture. Make sure to coat everything evenly!
Simmer and Thicken:
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer for about 5 minutes. You'll notice that the sauce begins to thicken—keep an eye on it and adjust the consistency with extra starch or broth as needed.
Serve:
Serve hot over a bed of cauliflower rice or alongside your favorite roasted veggies for a satisfying meal!

Optional: Garnish with fresh basil for a hint of brightness and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Whole30 Marry Me Chicken

Perfectly Cooked Meat: Ensure chicken pieces are uniformly cubed for even cooking, preventing some pieces from being overdone while others remain undercooked.
Sauce Consistency: If the sauce seems too thin at any point, mix 1 tablespoon of arrowroot or potato starch with a bit of broth before reintroducing it to the pan to thicken.
Flavor Boost: For extra umami, add a splash of coconut aminos or fish sauce while the sauce simmers, enhancing the flavor of your Whole30 Marry Me Chicken.
Resting Time: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juiciness. Covering it helps keep that warmth locked in.
Customize Easily: Feel free to swap chicken for firm tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist. This versatility makes it a fantastic dish for various diets!
Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stove to retain the creamy consistency of the sauce.

Make Ahead Options

These Whole30 Marry Me Chicken meal prep tips will simplify your busy weeknights! You can season and cube the chicken, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. For the sauce, whisk together the coconut cream, broth, nutritional yeast, oregano, and starch, and refrigerate it separately for up to 3 days. The sun-dried tomatoes can be chopped ahead of time as well. When you're ready to cook, simply heat the oil, sauté the chicken, mix in the tomatoes and sauce, and simmer until thickened for a deliciously easy dinner that’s just as creamy and flavorful!

What to Serve with Whole30 Marry Me Chicken?

There's nothing quite like a well-rounded meal that complements the delightful flavors of your savory dish.

Steamed Cauliflower Rice: This low-carb option is the ideal base for the creamy chicken, soaking up every delicious drop of the sauce.
Zesty Roasted Veggies: A vibrant mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots adds a beautiful contrast of colors and sweetness, creating a visually appealing plate.
Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy quinoa tossed with fresh herbs enhances the meal's overall texture, contributing an earthy, nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the dish.
Crispy Green Salad: A refreshing assortment of mixed greens, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken, brightening up the dining experience.
Mango Salsa: Sweet and spicy, this vibrant salsa brings a burst of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite.
Coconut-Lime Mocktail: For a delightful drink, this tangy beverage mirrors the dish's coconut elements, offering a refreshing way to cleanse your palate between bites.
Dark Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert, this rich, dairy-free option adds a decadent finish that satisfies any sweet tooth while remaining aligned with the Whole30 philosophy.

Enjoy each bite of your Whole30 Marry Me Chicken and let these side dishes take your dinner to the next level!

Storage Tips for Whole30 Marry Me Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact and preserves the creamy sauce.

Freezer: Freeze portions of Whole30 Marry Me Chicken in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring often to prevent the sauce from breaking. If needed, add a splash of chicken broth to restore creaminess.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving cooked chicken out for more than 2 hours to prevent foodborne illnesses.

Whole30 Marry Me Chicken Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists that can make this dish uniquely yours and heighten your dining experience.

Vegetarian Option:
Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas for a hearty plant-based meal. It’s always fun to explore meatless options!
Different Proteins:
Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a juicier alternative. They add a richer flavor to the dish that’s hard to resist.
Herb Swap:
Use fresh thyme or rosemary instead of oregano for an aromatic adventure. Changing up your herbs can redefine the entire flavor profile!
Extra Veggies:
Incorporate vibrant veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to boost nutrition and color in the dish. The texture will be delightful!
Creamy Alternatives:
For a nut-free alternative, use cashew cream instead of coconut cream. It offers a different flavor while maintaining that luscious creamy consistency.
Spice It Up:
Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat that enhances the existing flavors in the sauce. It's a fun way to kick things up a notch!
Add Nuts:
Toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an unexpected crunch and an extra nutty flavor that complements the creaminess beautifully.
Zesty Finish:
Mix in a splash of fresh lemon juice before serving. The tanginess lifts the flavors and adds a refreshing finish to this stunning dish.

Whole30 Marry Me Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for Whole30 Marry Me Chicken?
I recommend using boneless skinless chicken breasts for a lean option, but chicken thighs can be an excellent alternative if you prefer a juicier, more flavorful bite. Both will work wonderfully in the creamy sauce!

How do I store leftovers of Whole30 Marry Me Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure the container is sealed well to keep the flavors intact and prevent the creamy sauce from separating.

Can I freeze Whole30 Marry Me Chicken?
Absolutely! Freeze portions of Whole30 Marry Me Chicken in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply place the container in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Why is my sauce too thin, and how can I fix it?
If the sauce ends up too thin, don’t worry! Simply mix 1 tablespoon of arrowroot starch with a bit of chicken broth until smooth, and add it back to the pan. Heat gently, stirring until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

Is Whole30 Marry Me Chicken suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Indeed! This dish is gluten-free, dairy-free, paleo, and keto-friendly, making it an excellent choice for various dietary needs. If you’re accommodating allergies, always double-check ingredient labels, especially on items like chicken broth or nutritional yeast.

How long does cooked chicken last at room temperature?
It's best not to leave cooked chicken out for more than 2 hours to prevent any risk of foodborne illness. Always refrigerate it sooner to ensure safety and maintain freshness!