Marry me chicken dip
Marry Me Chicken Dip is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting appetizer that’s packed with tender chicken, a blend of cheeses, and a hint of sun-dried tomatoes. It’s the kind of…
Tip: save now, cook later.Marry Me Chicken Dip is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting appetizer that’s packed with tender chicken, a blend of cheeses, and a hint of sun-dried tomatoes. It’s the kind of dip that’s warm, gooey, and just begging to be scooped up with some crispy chips or fresh veggies.
I love making this dip when friends come over because it always disappears so fast, and people always ask for the recipe. The combination of flavors is simple but feels special—like a little celebration in every bite. Plus, it’s silly to call it “Marry Me” but honestly, it’s so good I wouldn’t be surprised if it inspired some big romantic moments!
My favorite way to serve it is right out of the oven, with a big platter of crackers, crunchy celery sticks, and bright red bell pepper slices. It’s perfect for sharing and always makes the party feel cozy and fun. If you like dips that are rich but not too complicated, you’re going to love this one as much as I do.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is super convenient and adds great flavor, but you can use leftover cooked chicken or even canned chicken for a quicker option.
Cream cheese: This gives the dip its creamy base. If you want a lighter version, try using reduced-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt, though the texture will be a bit different.
Sun-dried tomatoes: These add a lovely tang and depth. If you can’t find them, try chopped roasted red peppers, but the flavor won’t be as rich.
Cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully and Parmesan adds a nutty kick. You can swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack or cheddar and Parmesan for Pecorino Romano if needed.
Mayonnaise and sour cream: Both help balance cream cheese and add moisture. Greek yogurt can work as a healthier substitute for sour cream with a tangier taste.
How Do I Get the Dip Hot and Gooey Without Drying It Out?
Baking the dip just right is key to keeping it creamy and scoopable. Follow these tips:
- Use an oven-safe dish that fits your dip closely to avoid spreading too thin.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for even cooking.
- Bake uncovered so the top gets slightly golden and bubbly without becoming too dry.
- Check at around 20 minutes and test the center with a spoon to ensure it’s warm all the way through.
- If you want extra cheesy on top, add a sprinkle of cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Let the dip rest a few minutes after baking; it thickens slightly and is easier to scoop without falling apart.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven-safe baking dish (1-quart size) – perfect for baking the dip evenly without spreading too thin.
- Mixing bowl – large enough to combine all ingredients comfortably.
- Spoon or spatula – for mixing the dip thoroughly and spreading it in the baking dish.
- Knife and cutting board – to chop sun-dried tomatoes, green onions, and bacon.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your ingredients just right for balanced flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked sausage for a spicier, meatier dip perfect for game day.
- Add chopped spinach or kale to sneak in some greens and give a fresh twist.
- Mix in shredded pepper jack cheese to boost the heat and flavor.
- Stir in some cooked corn or black beans for a Southwest-style dip that’s colorful and hearty.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Dip?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed and drained)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
- 3 slices cooked bacon, crumbled for garnish (optional)
- Toasted baguette slices or crackers, for serving
Time Needed:
This dip will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. So in about 35 minutes, you’ll have a warm, cheesy dip ready for dipping and sharing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Mix:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream until nice and smooth.
2. Add the Delicious Stuff:
Stir in your shredded chicken, mozzarella, Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well so the flavors come together.
3. Bake the Dip:
Spread the mixture evenly in a 1-quart oven-safe baking dish. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the dip is bubbling and the top has a light golden color.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, sprinkle the sliced green onions and crumbled bacon on top. Serve your dip warm with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh veggies. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Dip?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the chicken completely before shredding. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or speed things up by placing the sealed package in cold water for a couple of hours.
How Do I Store Leftover Marry Me Chicken Dip?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warm and bubbly again.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the dip up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, just bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
What Can I Use Instead of Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes are good alternatives. Just chop them finely and drain any excess liquid to keep your dip from getting watery.
