This Marry Me Chicken is a cozy dish made with juicy chicken breasts, creamy sauce, and sun-dried tomatoes. It’s perfect for dinner, and who wouldn’t want a recipe that can lead to proposals? 😄
I love making this because it’s simple yet impressive! Just cook the chicken, mix in the sauce, and serve it over pasta or rice. Trust me, your hungry loved ones will be asking for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work perfectly in this dish. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier option.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even a non-dairy cream like coconut cream.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They provide flavor and texture. If you don’t have these on hand, fresh cherry tomatoes sautéed can also work well.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan enhances the creamy sauce. If you need a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast could be a good alternative.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a burst of flavor. Garlic powder can substitute in a pinch, but fresh is always best for taste.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
It’s essential to avoid overcooking the chicken. Here are a few tips:
- Using a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute.
- Cooking the chicken on medium-high heat helps to brown the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
Remember, it’s okay if the chicken looks a little undercooked when you take it off the heat. The residual heat will finish the cooking!
Easy Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Fresh basil, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Marry Me Chicken recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes on prep and around 20 minutes on cooking. It’s a quick yet impressive meal that’s sure to please!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. This helps to build the flavor right from the start!
2. Brown the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, gently add the chicken breasts and cook them until they’re golden brown on both sides, which should take about 4-5 minutes per side. Once browned, 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 for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn; garlic can turn bitter quickly!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Add the heavy cream, chicken broth, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir everything together thoroughly to combine. This will be the delicious sauce that brings everything together!
5. Simmer the Sauce:
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until it starts to thicken. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Cook the Chicken:
Return the browned chicken breasts back into the skillet. Use a spoon to pour some of the sauce over the chicken. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked and the sauce is creamy, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh chopped basil for that burst of freshness. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or alongside some crusty bread to soak up all that lovely sauce!
Enjoy your delicious and easy Marry Me Chicken dinner! This meal is sure to impress any dinner guest or loved one!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking! Thaw frozen chicken breasts in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for a quicker thaw. Pat dry before seasoning and cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or milk with a bit of cornstarch to thicken. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream or cashew cream for a similar texture!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover Marry Me Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You might want to add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them alongside the garlic before adding the cream and other ingredients.
