Marry Me Chicken served on a plate with a creamy sauce and garnished with fresh herbs.

1 of the Best Marry Me Chicken Recipe

ByDiana

Introduction

What if one dish could captivate taste buds and hearts alike? Enter Marry Me Chicken, a creamy, savory, and utterly irresistible dish that’s perfect for impressing loved ones, whether it’s a romantic dinner or a cozy family meal. With a tantalizing blend of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavors right in your kitchen.

Legend has it that this dish earned its whimsical name because it’s so delicious that it could inspire a marriage proposal! Whether that’s true or not, one thing is certain: Marry Me Chicken is worth every bite. Let’s dive into the details and get cooking!

Merry Me Chicken served on a plate with a creamy sauce and garnished with fresh herbs.
Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of Marry Me Chicken—perfect for any special occasion.

Ingredients List for Marry me Chicken

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Adjustments:

  • For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
  • Substitute boneless thighs for a juicier variation.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for added flavor.
  2. Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and sear for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Create the Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
  2. Add the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring until well combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  3. Stir in Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning.
    Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken just a bit

Step 3: Combine and Cook

  1. Place the seared chicken back into the skillet, generously spooning the sauce over it.
  2. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

  1. Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle fresh basil over the dish for a burst of flavor and color.
  2. Serve immediately, pairing with your favorite side dishes.

Tips for Perfecting This Recipe

  • Searing: Ensure the skillet is hot before adding chicken to achieve a golden-brown crust.
  • Thickening the Sauce: If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce.
  • Balancing Flavors: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more Parmesan as needed.
  • Customizations: For a richer flavor, add a splash of white wine to the sauce.

Variations:

  • Swap sun-dried tomatoes for cherry tomatoes for a fresher taste.
  • Add spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies and depth.

How to Serve and Present the Dish

Plating Suggestions:

  • Arrange the chicken on a large serving platter, spooning the creamy sauce over each piece. Garnish with additional basil or grated Parmesan.

Side Pairings:

  • Serve with buttery mashed potatoes, al dente pasta, or a crusty loaf of bread to soak up the sauce.
  • Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Beverage Pairings:

  • Pair this dish with a refreshing glass of chilled Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for the perfect complement. Prefer reds? A light Pinot Noir works beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can make this dish ahead of time by cooking it fully, then storing it in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to enjoy it.

Q: What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?
A: Roasted red peppers or fresh cherry tomatoes make excellent alternatives.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Absolutely! Freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

Q: Can I make this recipe lighter?
A: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the Parmesan for a lower-calorie option.

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 30g
  • Fat: 32g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 3g

This recipe is rich in protein and calcium, making it a hearty option for dinner.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in 30-second intervals.
  • Freezing: Keep in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Additional Recipe Variations

  • Vegan Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast for the sauce.
  • Spicy Version: Double the red pepper flakes and add sliced jalapeños to the sauce.
  • Keto-Friendly: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to keep it low-carb.
  • Slow Cooker Method: Place all ingredients (searing chicken first is optional) in a slow cooker. Slow cook for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken becomes tender and easily shreds.

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Conclusion

Now that you’ve discovered the magic of Marry Me Chicken, it’s time to bring this delightful dish to your table. Whether you’re preparing for a celebration or a relaxed meal, this recipe is guaranteed to wow your guests.

Let us know how your dish turned out in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag us on Instagram with your beautiful creations. Happy cooking!

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