This Easy Marry Me Chicken is a delicious dish that features tender chicken breasts cooked in a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs. Perfect for impressing dinner guests!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect as they cook evenly. You could substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier option or even use tofu for a vegetarian version.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a lovely tangy flavor. If you can’t find them, try using fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers instead. Just chop them finely for similar effects!
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter version, use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option without sacrificing flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a delicious saltiness. A good substitute can be Pecorino Romano, or you can skip cheese altogether for a lighter dish.
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken breasts just right can be tricky. Here are some tips to ensure they’re juicy and tender:
- Start with room-temperature chicken for more even cooking. Let them sit out for about 20 minutes before cooking.
- Always season well with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed. This helps promote a beautiful sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken is safe when it reaches 165°F (75°C).
How to Make Easy Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for mild heat)
- 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 will take about 35-40 minutes in total. You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and around 25-30 minutes for cooking. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough for special occasions!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will help bring out all the flavors during cooking.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts, searing them until they are golden brown on both sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of your chicken. Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Garlic:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium, and add the minced garlic. Stir and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spices:
Next, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes along with the dried Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
6. Add Cheese:
Now, add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce has thickened slightly – this should take about 3-5 minutes.
7. Combine Chicken with Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, making sure to spoon the creamy sauce over them. Let everything cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors and reheat the chicken.
8. Garnish and Serve:
To finish, garnish the dish with freshly chopped basil. Serve the creamy Marry Me Chicken hot, over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Marry Me Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight, or use the quick method by placing it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for about an hour.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat or microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the creamy sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator. Reheat them together on low heat when you’re ready to serve.
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 even coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Just keep in mind that the sauce may be slightly less creamy with these substitutes.
