why make this recipe
Marry Me Chicken is a dish that not only captures the heart but also fills the stomach with its delicious flavors. It stands out with its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes.
This meal is perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner. With its simple ingredients and easy steps, anyone can whip it up, making it ideal for both novice and experienced cooks.
equipment needed for Marry Me Chicken
- Large skillet
- Instant-read thermometer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
What You Need to Make Marry Me Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds)
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon chicken flavor Better Than Bouillon (or 1 chicken bouillon cube)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 (7-ounce) jar sun-dried tomatoes (drained and roughly chopped)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¼ cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves
- Cooked pasta or mashed potatoes (for serving, optional)
How to Cook Marry Me Chicken Step by Step
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the chicken brown nicely. Season both sides with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Then, heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once the oil is glistening, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and let them cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes. This cooking time ensures the chicken gets a beautiful golden brown on one side. After 5 minutes, carefully flip each piece over and cook for another 5 minutes or until golden brown. When fully cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
Next, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Cook the garlic, stirring constantly, until it becomes fragrant. This should take about 30 seconds. Once you can smell the garlic, pour in the heavy cream and the chicken stock. Then add the chicken bouillon or the cube, and whisk everything until the mixture is combined and smooth.
Now, stir in ¼ cup of the freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, freshly cracked black pepper, and the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add the red pepper flakes at this stage. Whisk again to ensure everything is well mixed.
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, placing it gently into the creamy sauce. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Then, reduce the heat to medium-low to allow the chicken to cook through. This part is essential as you want the sauce to thicken slightly. Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F as indicated by an instant-read thermometer.
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the fresh basil leaves over the chicken and add the remaining ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese. If you like, you can sprinkle additional red pepper flakes for more spice. Serve your Marry Me Chicken over a bed of cooked pasta or creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal.
how to make Marry Me Chicken
Making Marry Me Chicken is straightforward and can be a fun experience in the kitchen. Start by preparing your ingredients and gathering your equipment. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
First, pat your chicken dry and season it well with salt. Then, heat the oil until it shimmers before adding your chicken breasts. Allow them to brown beautifully on both sides and then set them aside.
After the chicken, the sauce is created directly in the same skillet. Sauté the garlic first for deep flavor, then mix in the cream, stock, and cheeses. Incorporating the sun-dried tomatoes and other spices will enhance the dish tremendously.
Finally, nestle the chicken back in the sauce and let the magic happen; allow the sauce to simmer gently until the chicken is done. Finish with fresh basil and serve it with your favorite side.
how to serve Marry Me Chicken
Serving Marry Me Chicken is simple yet rewarding. When plated, the creamy sauce enveloping each piece of chicken creates an appealing sight. This dish can be served over a generous scoop of cooked pasta like fettuccine or linguine, where the sauce can cascade over the noodles.
Alternatively, it pairs excellently with fluffy mashed potatoes. The creamy sauce seeps into the potatoes, creating a deliciously indulgent combination. Garnish your serving with additional fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of color and flavor.
what to serve with Marry Me Chicken
To complete your meal, consider serving a fresh green salad on the side. A simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette lifts the richness of the chicken.
Roasted vegetables can also make a delightful accompaniment. Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or even carrots add a pop of color and nutrients. For those who enjoy bread, a warm baguette or garlic bread can be perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce.
how to store Marry Me Chicken
Storing Marry Me Chicken properly ensures you can enjoy leftovers without compromising flavor. Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
The dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing the chicken after cooling. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it can last for up to three months in the freezer.
To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat until everything is heated through.
tips to make Marry Me Chicken
For the best results, ensure your chicken is patted dry thoroughly for better browning. Seasoning the chicken well will enhance its flavor significantly.
Using fresh ingredients like real garlic and fresh basil will add a depth of flavor that dried ingredients can’t replicate. Adjust the heat level according to your taste preferences; if spicy isn’t your style, skip the red pepper flakes.
When making the sauce, whisk continuously to achieve that perfect creamy consistency and prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
variation
There are numerous ways to customize Marry Me Chicken. You can add a variety of vegetables to the sauce, such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers, enhancing both flavor and nutrition.
Using different herbs like thyme or rosemary can give it a unique twist. If you want a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.
best time to make Marry Me Chicken
Marry Me Chicken shines during special occasions, cozy family dinners, or even date nights. Its rich flavors and elegant presentation make it a fantastic option for anniversaries or Valentine’s Day.
However, it’s also an easy weeknight meal since the preparation and cooking time are quite short, fitting well into any busy schedule.
common mistakes to avoid
One common mistake is overcrowding the skillet while browning the chicken. Ensure there is enough space for even cooking, or you might end up steaming the meat instead.
Another error is cooking on too high of a heat. A medium-high flame allows the chicken to brown without burning the garlic and ruining the sauce.
Finally, don’t forget to check the chicken’s internal temperature. Making sure it reaches 165°F will ensure that it is safe to eat and perfectly juicy.
nutritional notes
With creamy ingredients and cheese, Marry Me Chicken is rich in flavor and, as a result, is higher in calories and fat. To balance the meal, serving it alongside leafy greens or whole grains can add fiber and nutrients.
If managing dietary restrictions, consider customizing the recipe by using low-fat options where possible to reduce overall calorie intake while still enjoying this beloved dish.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken pieces, but adjust the cooking time to ensure they are cooked thoroughly.
What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?
If you’re not a fan of sun-dried tomatoes, you can easily swap them for fresh cherry tomatoes. They will provide a different texture and flavor profile.
Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?
You can replace the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream and omit the cheese for a dairy-free version.
conclusion
Marry Me Chicken is a delicious meal that brings comfort and romance to the dining table. With its creamy sauce, succulent chicken, and delightful flavors, it is bound to win over hearts.
Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or a weekday dinner, this dish is easy to make and sure to impress. Enjoy the process, the flavors, and most importantly, the company while dining on this delightful meal!
