This Easy Marry Me Chicken is a delightful dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs. It’s bursting with flavor!
Who could resist this dish? It’s so good that it might just lead to a proposal. Just kidding, but your taste buds will be singing! 😄 I love pairing it with pasta or rice for a tasty meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they stay moist and tender. If you prefer dark meat, you can use boneless thighs instead for more flavor and juiciness.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a wonderful tangy flavor. If you can’t find oil-packed, dry sun-dried tomatoes will work too—just soak them in warm water for 20 minutes first. You can also substitute with roasted red peppers for a different taste!
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy, but you can use half-and-half for a lighter version or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just remember, it may change the flavor slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan brings a nice sharpness to the dish. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a dairy-free option) can provide a similar flavor profile.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken just right is crucial for this dish. Here’s how to ensure it’s juicy and flavorful:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps create a nice golden crust.
- Cook the chicken without moving it for about 5-6 minutes, then flip it. This ensures browning on both sides.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
Following these steps will give you perfectly cooked chicken every time, adding to the overall success of your Marry Me Chicken!
Easy Marry Me Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably oil-packed)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes. It’s a quick and easy meal that feels special!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and black pepper. This simple step adds flavor to the chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook them until they are golden brown on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Seasoning:
Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 1 minute to combine the flavors.
5. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer, using a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These add great flavor!
6. Stir in the Cream and Parmesan:
Next, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook the sauce for about 3-5 minutes, stirring continuously until it thickens slightly. This creamy sauce is what makes this dish so special!
7. Return the Chicken to the Skillet:
Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning some sauce over the top. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes. Check to make sure the chicken is cooked through (165°F or 75°C).
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish the chicken with freshly chopped basil. This adds a refreshing touch to the dish!
9. Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Marry Me Chicken hot, accompanied by pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up all that amazing sauce. Enjoy every bite!
Enjoy your rich and creamy Marry Me Chicken! It’s a perfect dish for a romantic dinner or just a cozy night at home.
FAQ for Easy Marry Me Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it is completely thawed before cooking. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker results. This will ensure even cooking and prevent the chicken from being tough.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, use coconut milk or almond milk, though this may slightly change the flavor. Just note that the sauce might be less creamy than using heavy cream.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stove, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Just follow the recipe up to step 7. Store the chicken and sauce separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat gently in the skillet until warmed through, then garnish with basil!
