Marry Me Chicken

by
Creamy Marry Me Chicken recipe with garlic and herbs served on a plate.

Marry Me Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that combines simplicity with rich, comforting flavors. This dish is perfect for those special occasions when you want to impress someone you care about. The name itself sparks curiosity and adds an element of fun to meal prep. Featuring juicy chicken breasts cooked in a creamy, sun-dried tomato sauce with garlic and Parmesan, it’s a plate that can turn a regular dinner into a memorable one. The blend of flavors is exquisite, and every bite leads you to savor a moment worthy of celebration.

This dish is not only delicious but also easy to make, which is fantastic for both beginner and seasoned cooks. It requires minimal ingredients that are often found in your kitchen, making it convenient for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. The stunning presentation and delightful aroma that fill your home will captivate your guests’ senses, making them eager to take that first bite.

By mastering this recipe, you’ll have a go-to meal for anniversaries, date nights, or even a simple family dinner. The creamy sauce and tender chicken will have your loved ones asking for seconds, and perhaps even a proposal!

HOW TO MAKE Marry Me Chicken

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (in oil, drained)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, for garnish (optional)

DIRECTIONS

Season the Chicken

Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts. Use salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to give it a robust flavor. This step is crucial as it forms the base of the dish’s taste.

Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts carefully to avoid splattering. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, ensuring the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook it until it becomes fragrant, which should take about a minute. After that, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and let them cook for another 1-2 minutes. This will enhance the flavor of your sauce.

Add Liquids

Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and bring it to a simmer. Remember to scrape the bottom of the pan to release any flavorful bits that may have stuck during searing the chicken. Following this, add in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir everything well and allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Return Chicken to Pan

Now it’s time to bring your chicken back to the skillet. Lower the heat and place the cooked chicken back into the creamy sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken to keep it moist. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes so the chicken can heat through and absorb the sauce’s flavor.

Garnish and Serve

Remove your skillet from heat. To give it a final touch, garnish the dish with fresh basil and freshly ground black pepper, if desired. Serve immediately, paired with your favorite sides like pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables.

HOW TO SERVE Marry Me Chicken

Serving Marry Me Chicken can be simple yet elegant. When plating, consider placing the chicken breasts on one side of the plate and spooning over the creamy sauce generously. A sprinkle of fresh basil adds color and freshness to the dish. It is a great idea to serve this meal with sides like garlic bread, which can soak up the delicious sauce, or pasta that complements the creamy texture.

For a touch of sophistication, you can sprinkle some additional Parmesan cheese on top before serving. Set the table with warm plates, and don’t forget to pour a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, which pairs wonderfully with this dish. A fresh garden salad on the side adds a nice crunch and balances out the richness of the chicken.

To make the meal feel even more special, create a cozy atmosphere with soft lighting and perhaps some background music. When your dish looks great and smells delicious, it will naturally make an impression, turning an ordinary meal into a feast.

HOW TO STORE Marry Me Chicken

To store leftover Marry Me Chicken, let it cool down to room temperature first. Then transfer it into an airtight container. Properly stored, it can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheating is easy; simply place it in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave using a microwave-safe dish, covering it to keep moisture intact.

If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze the meal. Just make sure to separate it into portions if you prefer. In the freezer, it can last for about 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, simply transfer it to the fridge the night before to defrost and then follow the reheating instructions above.

Marry-Me-Chicken

TIPS TO MAKE Marry Me Chicken

  1. Choose Quality Chicken: For the best result, use high-quality, fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook more evenly and taste better.
  2. Don’t Skip Seasoning: Ensure that you season the chicken well before cooking. This enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
  3. Watch the Sauce: Keep an eye on the sauce as it simmers. If it gets too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth or cream to adjust the consistency.
  4. Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic and fresh basil. They add brightness and an aromatic quality to your dish.
  5. Customize the Heat: If you like a bit of spice, feel free to increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes according to your preference.
  6. Pair With Sides: Experiment with different sides to find combinations that you enjoy the most with this dish. Pasta, rice, or even a simple green salad work wonderfully.

VARIATIONS

While the classic Marry Me Chicken is delightful on its own, there are plenty of variations you can try:

  1. Mushroom Addition: Sauté some sliced mushrooms along with the garlic for an earthy flavor boost in the sauce.
  2. Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach to the sauce until wilted for added nutrition and a pop of color.
  3. Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella or feta for a unique flavor twist.
  4. Herb Infusion: Add different herbs like thyme or oregano, which can bring a fragrant dimension to the chicken.
  5. Vegan Option: Substitute chicken with plant-based meat alternatives and use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a vegan-friendly version.

FAQs

What should I serve with Marry Me Chicken?
You can serve it with pasta, rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. Garlic bread also pairs nicely with this dish, allowing you to enjoy the delicious sauce.

Can I make Marry Me Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a few hours in advance. Just reheat it on the stove before serving. However, for best flavor, it’s recommended to serve fresh.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
While it is best to use fresh chicken, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.

With Marry Me Chicken, you are equipped with a straightforward yet captivating recipe that can breathe new life into any dining experience. It’s perfect for impressing your loved ones or even just enjoying a cozy dinner at home. Happy cooking!