If you’re craving a comforting, creamy, and bursting-with-flavor dish that fits perfectly within your Whole30 lifestyle, look no further than this Whole30 Marry Me Chicken. It’s a beautiful harmony of tender chicken cubes bathed in a luscious, coconut cream-based sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. This recipe feels indulgent without any guilt, making it a fast favorite for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. Prepare yourself to fall in love as each bite delivers that cozy, crave-worthy experience that will have you thinking about your next meal before you even finish this one.

Whole30 Marry Me Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Whole30 Marry Me Chicken lies in its simplicity and the fresh, wholesome ingredients that bring the dish to life. Each component plays a key role in creating the creamy texture, vibrant flavor, and delightful aromas that keep this recipe on repeat in my kitchen.

Olive oil (or avocado oil): A heart-healthy fat that’s perfect for searing the chicken beautifully to a golden finish.
Boneless skinless chicken breast (1.5 pounds, cubed): The star protein that soaks up all the gorgeous sauce flavors while staying juicy.
Garlic salt (2 teaspoons, divided): Essential for seasoning, balancing savory garlic and salt to enhance every ingredient.
Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle heat and depth that complements the garlic and herbs.
Fresh minced garlic (1 tablespoon): Brings that unmistakable punch of aromatic freshness to the sauce and chicken.
Full-fat unsweetened canned coconut cream (1 can, chilled): The secret to a velvety, luscious sauce that is both dairy-free and compliant with Whole30.
Chicken broth (1 cup): Adds savory body and helps meld all the sauce ingredients together effortlessly.
Nutritional yeast (1/4 cup): Gives a subtle cheesy, nutty richness without any dairy involved.
Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Infuses the sauce with a fragrant, herbaceous note that’s simply irresistible.
Arrowroot or potato starch (1-2 tablespoons): A natural thickener that helps you achieve that perfectly creamy sauce texture.
Sun-dried tomatoes (1 jar, about 8 ounces): Brings bursts of tangy sweetness and chewy texture that make every spoonful exciting.
Fresh basil (0.5 ounces, optional but recommended): A fresh, peppery herb that adds a beautiful final flourish to the dish.

How to Make Whole30 Marry Me Chicken

Step 1: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to get that perfect sizzle. Once hot, add the cubed chicken and season with half the garlic salt and all the black pepper. Cooking the chicken until golden brown locks in juicy flavors and creates a nice crust. Toss in the minced garlic at the last minute of cooking to release that fragrant punch without burning it — this step makes a huge difference in the final taste.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Flavorful Sauce Base

While your chicken is cooking, grab a medium bowl and whisk together the chicken broth, nutritional yeast, dried oregano, the remaining garlic salt, and one tablespoon of your chosen starch. This mixture is the backbone of your creamy sauce, delivering savory depth and a slight cheesy note without dairy.

Step 3: Prepare Your Sun-Dried Tomatoes with Care

Don’t rush this step! Drain your sun-dried tomatoes well and blot them dry to avoid excess oil, which could overpower the sauce’s delicate creaminess. Chop them finely if your family prefers, or keep them chunkier for more texture—the choice is yours. These tomatoes lend that unmistakable tang and sweetness that perfectly balances the rich sauce.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in the Pan

Once the chicken is cooked through and beautifully browned, stir in the sun-dried tomatoes right into the pan to combine all those flavors. Next, add only the white solid part of the chilled coconut cream—reserving the liquid for another use like a smoothie. Stir it in until it melts into the chicken, then pour in your chicken broth mixture to bring it all together.

Step 5: Simmer Until the Sauce is Just Right

Raise the heat just enough to bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce it to a gentle simmer. Let it thicken slowly, about five minutes, stirring occasionally so it doesn’t stick. If the sauce seems too thin, you can mix an additional tablespoon of starch with a bit more broth and add it in to reach that velvety consistency. If it turns out too thick, just splash in a bit more chicken broth and stir—it’s all about finding your perfect balance.

Step 6: Final Taste and Serve

Give your sauce a final taste and add salt if needed to enhance the flavors even more. Now your Whole30 Marry Me Chicken is ready to enjoy! Serve it alongside your favorite veggies or over steamed cauliflower rice to keep it Whole30-friendly and extra comforting.

How to Serve Whole30 Marry Me Chicken

Garnishes

Adding fresh basil leaves just before serving not only brightens the dish visually but also complements the creamy, tangy flavors with a pop of herbal freshness. You could also sprinkle a bit more nutritional yeast on top for a subtle cheesy finish that elevates every bite.

Side Dishes

This dish is a star on its own, but pairing it with cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables keeps it light and nourishing. Sautéed green beans, steamed broccoli, or even a crisp side salad offer the perfect contrast to the silky sauce, making your meal feel balanced and full of variety.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling fanciful, try serving your Whole30 Marry Me Chicken in individual small cast-iron skillets or charming shallow bowls for a cozy, restaurant-style touch. Or, spoon it over a colorful bed of spiralized zucchini noodles for a fresh, vibrant plate that looks just as delightful as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after sitting, making your next meal just as delicious, if not better!

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to leave some headspace for expansion and thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at medium power, stirring occasionally to ensure the sauce stays creamy and doesn’t separate. If the sauce thickened too much in the fridge, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a bit more fat and richness, which pairs well with the creamy sauce and may even enhance the overall flavor. Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.

Is nutritional yeast necessary in this recipe?

While not mandatory, nutritional yeast adds a subtle cheesy note that truly rounds out the sauce’s depth. If you can’t find it or don’t want to use it, you can omit it, but expect a slight difference in flavor complexity.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free but not Whole30?

Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free thanks to the coconut cream and nutritional yeast, making it perfect for anyone avoiding dairy regardless of their Whole30 status.

How do I ensure the sauce doesn’t break when reheating?

Reheat slowly over low heat and avoid boiling the sauce again. Stirring gently helps maintain its smooth texture, and adding a little extra broth can bring it back together if needed.

What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?

If sun-dried tomatoes aren’t your favorite, try roasted red peppers or fresh cherry tomatoes lightly sautéed. They add similar sweetness and color but will change the texture slightly.

Final Thoughts

This Whole30 Marry Me Chicken recipe is that rare kind of weeknight meal that dazzles both your taste buds and your soul with its creamy texture and flavorful punch, all while keeping things clean and simple. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in food form, inviting you to sit down, relax, and savor every bite. I hope you try it soon and discover your own love affair with this delightful, wholesome classic!