This Easy Marry Me Chicken is a delicious dish featuring tender chicken breasts in a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and spices. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner!
You won’t believe how tender the chicken turns out! I love serving it with pasta or rice to soak up that creamy goodness. Trust me, it will wow your loved ones! ❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for an alternative, you could use chicken thighs for extra juiciness. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a burst of flavor. If you can’t find them, roasted red peppers or fresh cherry tomatoes can work. Just keep in mind that the sauce won’t be quite the same without their unique taste.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, half-and-half or a dairy-free cream can be used. Keep in mind that the sauce may be less rich.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for flavor. If you’re lactose intolerant, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor as a substitute, but the texture will differ.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking the chicken just right ensures it stays juicy and tender. Follow these steps to make it foolproof:
- Pat the chicken dry to help it sear nicely and achieve a golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this allows the chicken to brown rather than steam. Cook in batches if needed.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness—chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) internally.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it moist; this allows the juices to redistribute.
Using these tips, you’ll have a delightful Marry Me Chicken that’s sure to impress!
Easy Marry Me Chicken with Creamy Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably oil-packed, drained)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Marry Me Chicken takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to cook, giving you a total time of about 35-40 minutes. It’s a quick and easy meal to impress someone special, perfect for a cozy dinner at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them sear well. Season both sides with salt and black pepper to taste.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. After cooking, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Flavor Base:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté everything for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Next, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for about a minute to mix the flavors together.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken slightly.
6. Combine and Simmer:
Return the cooked chicken breasts back to the skillet, spooning some of the delicious sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for an additional 3-5 minutes so the chicken heats through and absorbs some of the flavors.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the chicken for a pop of color and flavor. You can serve this creamy Marry Me Chicken over pasta, mashed potatoes, or enjoy it with some crusty bread to soak up all that tasty sauce.
Enjoy your cozy, flavorful meal! This dish is sure to impress anyone you share it with.
FAQ for Easy Marry Me Chicken Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s essential to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for a quick method. Pat it dry before seasoning and cooking to ensure proper browning.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of cornstarch to help thicken the sauce. A dairy-free alternative like coconut cream can also work, though it may change the flavor profile slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Marry Me Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Sure! You can prepare the creamy sauce and cooked chicken ahead of time, refrigerating them separately. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce and then add the chicken to warm it up. This way, you’ll have a quick meal ready to go!
