This Easy Marry Me Chicken features tender chicken in a rich and creamy sauce that will make anyone fall head over heels! With simple ingredients like garlic and herbs, it’s a winner!
Honestly, when I make this dish, everyone gathers around like it’s the last supper. The creamy sauce is so good, I could drink it! Give it a try for a cozy dinner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are tender and cook quickly. You can use thighs for more flavor and juiciness, or even turkey cutlets if that’s what you have.
Olive Oil: This is great for cooking, but you can also use butter or avocado oil. Each will add a unique flavor, and butter can make the sauce richer.
Garlic: Fresh is best here, but garlic powder can work in a pinch. Just use 1/4 teaspoon for every clove. I love adding more garlic for extra punch!
Sun-dried Tomatoes: These provide a tangy depth. If you don’t have them, roasted red peppers or even chopped fresh tomatoes can work well for a different twist.
Heavy Cream: The cream gives the sauce its creamy texture. For a lighter version, use half-and-half, or for a dairy-free option, try coconut cream.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Properly Cooked?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky, but following these tips will help:
- Drying the Chicken: Patting the chicken dry helps it sear better. A nice golden crust traps moisture inside.
- Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer; the chicken should be 165°F. This takes the guesswork out!
- Let it Rest: After cooking, let the chicken sit for a few minutes. This seals in juices, making every bite tender.
Easy Marry Me Chicken Recipe With Creamy Sauce
Ingredients:
- 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 oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably packed in oil)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish
Time Needed:
This recipe will take approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and delicious option for a weeknight dinner or a romantic evening.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps to get a nice sear. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and black pepper generously.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Cook them until they are golden brown on both sides and fully cooked through — about 5-7 minutes on each side, depending on how thick they are. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic and Seasonings:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.
4. Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Now, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and sauté for another 2-3 minutes, mixing everything together well.
5. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, using a wooden spoon to scrape any delicious browned bits off the bottom of the pan. This adds flavor!
6. Stir in the Cream and Cheese:
Next, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep cooking and stirring until the sauce starts to thicken a bit, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
7. Combine and Simmer:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of that creamy sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for another 3-5 minutes to meld those lovely flavors.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped basil leaves over the chicken. This adds a lovely pop of freshness!
Serve this delicious Marry Me Chicken hot, with crusty bread, pasta, or rice to soak up that amazing sauce. It’s sure to impress anyone at your dinner table!
FAQ for Easy Marry Me Chicken Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes! If you’re using frozen chicken, make sure to fully thaw it first. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat the chicken dry before cooking to ensure a good sear!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the creamy sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store both in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, gently reheat on the stove, adding a splash of cream if the sauce thickens too much.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll be good for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to warm evenly.
What Can I Serve with Marry Me Chicken?
This creamy chicken dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or even a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For a lighter option, serve it alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
