Marry Me Chicken Dip

Recipe Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this marry me dip.

Cream Cheese and Sour Cream: Together, they create a rich, creamy base with a smooth texture.

Chicken: Use precooked, chopped chicken for a quick and easy dip—rotisserie, deli, or leftover chicken all work well.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes: We use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for the right flavor and texture. Be sure to drain them to avoid excess oil in the dip.

Red Pepper Flakes: A signature ingredient in this classic dish, red pepper flakes add a subtle kick. Add more if you like a spicier dip.

Italian Cheese Blend: We tested several shredded cheese options and found that an Italian blend delivers the best melty texture and taste. This blend typically includes mozzarella, Monterey Jack, provolone, asiago, Parmesan, and Romano.

Seasonings: Italian seasoning and garlic powder bring a Tuscan profile, while salt adds balance.

Optional Toppings: Cooked bacon and fresh basil leaves add a tasty finish.

Cookware You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this marry me chicken dip recipe.

8-Inch Glass Baking Dish: We like to use this size because it holds the perfect ratio of dip base to melty cheese. We prefer glass over metal as it absorbs heat slower, providing a more even bake.

Mixing Bowl: A large bowl gives you enough space to blend all the ingredients together.

Other Cookware You’ll Need: Measuring cups and spoons, small strainer, chef’s knife, cutting board, large bowl, and mixing spoon.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Dip

Here’s how to easily make this marry me chicken dip recipe.

1. Mix the Dip Ingredients

This dip comes together quickly with a little prep. Measure and chop ingredients ahead so you can simply dump and stir. Soften the cream cheese by letting it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, or microwave in 10-second intervals if you're short on time. Reserve 1/2 cup of cheese for the topping. Mix the cream cheese and sour cream first, then combine everything else until well blended.

2. Assemble and Bake

Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Top with the reserved 1/2 cup of cheese and bake until the edges are bubbly and the cheese is melted.

3. Top and Serve

Let the dip rest a few minutes—it’ll be hot. Roll basil leaves into a cigar shape and slice into thin ribbons (called chiffonade). Top with basil and chopped cooked bacon.

Possible Variations

Here are our favorite ways to give this appetizer a twist.

Seasoning Variation: Substitute dried basil, oregano, or thyme for the Italian seasoning. Add extra garlic powder (up to 1 teaspoon) or 1/2 teaspoon onion powder. Want more zip? Toss in extra red pepper flakes.

Change the Cheese: Instead of using an Italian cheese blend, try shredded sharp cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, or fontina—or mix a few together for extra melty, cheesy goodness.

Add Veggies: Stir in up to 1/2 cup of thawed, well-drained frozen spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers for extra flavor, texture, and color.

What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Dip

Besides crostini, this creamy dip pairs wonderfully with baguette slices, chunks of focaccia, assorted crackers, and crispy pita chips. Fresh veggies like carrot sticks, celery, cucumber rounds, cherry tomatoes, and mini bell peppers work great for scooping and adding crunch to every bite.

However you serve it, this marry me chicken dip recipe won’t last long. Browse our full collection of game-day dips and party dips to find more delicious dips to pair with this crowd-pleaser.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftover dip, lucky you! Storing and reheating this leftover easy marry me chicken dip is simple.

Refrigerator

Allow the dip to cool to room temperature before storing in a covered container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Store in a covered container for up to 2 months.

How to Thaw

Remove the container from the freezer the day before. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating from Refrigerator

• Microwave: Scoop out an individual portion into a microwavable bowl, cover, and heat in 20- to 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place the dip in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake 15 to 20 minutes until hot and bubbly.

Reheating from Freezer

After thawing, follow the same microwave or oven instructions above to enjoy it again.