This Easy Marry Me Chicken is a dream come true! Tender chicken breasts are cooked in a creamy, flavorful sauce, making it perfect for impressing someone special or treating yourself.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish because they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you want a twist, you could use chicken thighs for more flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a nice punch to the sauce. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder works as a substitute—just use about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a unique flavor and color to the dish. If you don’t have them, roasted red peppers or fresh tomatoes can work in a pinch, but you’ll miss that concentrated taste.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use half-and-half or even coconut milk, although the flavor will change a bit.
Parmesan Cheese: For that cheesy goodness, freshly grated Parmesan is best. If you’re out, try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Getting tender, juicy chicken is essential for this dish. Here are some tips to follow:
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough when you sear the chicken. This will create a nice, golden crust.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if needed. This helps the chicken brown rather than steam.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken sit for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep it juicy when you cut into it.
With these tips and ingredient insights, your Marry Me Chicken will turn out delicious every time! Enjoy cooking!
Easy Marry Me Chicken with Creamy Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a slight kick)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably oil-packed)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, making it ready in just about 30 minutes! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion without spending hours in the kitchen.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. This will give your chicken a flavorful base.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until both sides are golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Now, lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant—be careful not to let it burn!
4. Add Seasoning and Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Next, stir in the dried Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Let everything cook together for 1-2 minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring the mixture to combine. Bring it all to a gentle simmer—this will create your delicious creamy sauce!
6. Incorporate the Cheese:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. This will give your dish that creamy, cheesy goodness!
7. Add the Chicken Back to the Skillet:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over them. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes so the chicken can absorb some of the flavors.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle the freshly chopped basil over the top for a burst of freshness. Serve hot, and pair it with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up that luscious sauce!
Enjoy your delicious and easy Marry Me Chicken with a rich and flavorful creamy sauce!
FAQ for Easy Marry Me Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking! Thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. This ensures even cooking and prevents the chicken from being rubbery.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk. Keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in a microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the creamy sauce and cook the chicken in advance, then store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and sauce together in a skillet until warmed through.
