This Easy Marry Me Chicken is a dreamy dish with juicy chicken breasts cooked in a creamy sauce, packed with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. It’s so delicious, you might just get a marriage proposal!
The first time I made this, my taste buds danced like they were at a wedding! 🥳 I love serving it with pasta or rice to soak up all that yummy sauce—it’s just that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish because they cook quickly and stay juicy. You can substitute with thighs if you prefer a richer flavor or to save money.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps brown the chicken. If you’re out, any cooking oil will work, such as vegetable or canola oil. Butter also gives a nice flavor, but it has a lower smoke point.
Heavy Cream: It makes the sauce smooth and rich. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may not be as creamy. A dairy-free alternative, like coconut cream, can also work well.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a burst of flavor. If you can’t find oil-packed ones, dry sun-dried tomatoes can be rehydrated in hot water for about 20 minutes.
How Can You Perfectly Cook Chicken Breasts?
Cooking chicken breasts just right can be tricky. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by patting the chicken dry; this helps achieve a good sear.
- Season generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy! Spice is essential.
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat, then add the olive oil. Wait until the oil is hot before adding the chicken.
- Cook without moving the chicken until it’s golden brown on one side (about 5-6 minutes). This crust adds flavor!
- Flip and do the same for the other side. If using a meat thermometer, aim for 165°F for safe doneness.
Letting the chicken rest after cooking helps seal in the juices, giving you tender and delicious chicken!
Easy Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a mild kick)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably oil-packed)
- Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This seasoning is key to enhancing the flavor of the chicken.
2. Brown the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Flavorful Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Sauté the mixture for about 30 seconds until you can smell the fragrant garlic. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Deglaze the Pan:
Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom. This adds a lot of flavor to your sauce!
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Now, stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick to the pan.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts back to the skillet and carefully spoon the sauce over each piece. Let them simmer together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to heat through and absorb the delicious flavors of the sauce.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped basil to add a pop of color and flavor. Serve the Marry Me Chicken hot alongside your favorite pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up that creamy sauce. Enjoy your meal! It’s sure to impress anyone at the dinner table!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but you’ll need to fully thaw the chicken before cooking for even cooking. The best way to thaw it is to place the chicken in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can use the cold water method by sealing the chicken in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
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, though the sauce may not be as rich. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut milk or cashew cream can also work well, providing a creamy texture with a subtle flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain the creamy texture of the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Just reheat everything together before serving, adding a bit of cream or chicken broth if needed to refresh the sauce consistency.
