Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, delicious dish that features tender chicken cooked in a rich sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs. It’s simply irresistible!
You might want to keep some extra pasta on hand, because this dish is so good, it might just inspire a proposal! 💍 I love serving it with some crusty bread to soak up that tasty sauce!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to cook and stay juicy. You might substitute with chicken thighs for a richer flavor, as they stay moist even if slightly overcooked.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a sweet, tangy flavor. If you don’t have them, fresh cherry tomatoes can work too! Just sauté them until they’re soft. Alternatively, you can use roasted red peppers for a different taste.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its rich texture. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream like coconut milk, but keep in mind the flavor might change slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: It adds a salty, nutty flavor. If you want a dairy-free version, nutritional yeast can offer a cheesy taste. Grated Pecorino or Asiago cheese are also great substitutes if you have them on hand!
How Do You Get Juicy Chicken Every Time?
Cooking the chicken perfectly can be tricky! Start by letting it rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper generously before cooking, as this enhances the flavor.
- Heat the olive oil until it shimmers, then add the chicken. Sear it for about 6-7 minutes on each side without touching it. This helps develop a nice golden crust.
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken should be cooked to 165°F to ensure it’s safe and tender.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (in oil, drained)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Marry Me Chicken recipe will take you about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a romantic dinner or a delightful weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance the flavor. This step ensures your chicken is tasty and simply irresistible!
2. Searing the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Making the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant. This will make your kitchen smell amazing! Next, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Then pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Adding Cheese and Seasonings:
Now it’s time to make the sauce rich and flavorful! Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if you like some heat). Let the sauce thicken for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Combining Chicken with Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the lovely sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the top of the chicken, and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
6. Garnishing and Serving:
Once the chicken is nice and hot, take it off the heat. Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Enjoy your Marry Me Chicken with pasta, rice, or a side salad for a complete meal!
Can I Substitute Chicken Breasts with Another Meat?
Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs for a more succulent option, or try this recipe with turkey cutlets. Just adjust the cooking time since thighs may take a bit longer to cook through. For a vegetarian version, firm tofu or seitan can also work well!
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and cornstarch (1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon cornstarch). For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream or cashew cream for a rich, creamy texture!
How Do 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 stovetop, adding a little chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken separately a day in advance. Keep them in the fridge and combine just before serving for a fresh taste. Simply heat the chicken and rewarm the sauce gently on the stove!
