Marry Me Chicken is a creamy and tasty dish that will surely steal hearts! It features juicy chicken cooked in a rich sauce with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs. Yum!
I mean, who wouldn’t want a meal that’s both delicious and romantic? Whenever I make this, I like to serve it with some pasta or mashed potatoes to soak up that yummy sauce. ❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish since they stay tender. If you prefer dark meat, use thighs instead—they add more flavor. You can also substitute tofu or seitan for a vegetarian option.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a wonderful tangy sweetness. If you can’t find them, try using fresh tomatoes—just cook them a bit longer to reduce moisture. You could also use roasted red peppers for a different twist!
Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce creamy and rich. If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half or coconut cream. For a plant-based alternative, try cashew cream or a non-dairy milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch to thicken.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor and texture. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, look for nutritional yeast which provides a cheesy flavor or vegan Parmesan substitutes.
Italian Herbs: Dried Italian herbs are great, but feel free to use fresh! A mix of fresh basil and oregano can lift the dish even more. If you’re out of Italian herbs, a bit of thyme or rosemary works too.
How Do You Get That Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken so it’s juicy and golden takes a little attention. Here’s what to do:
- Start by heating the olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat; this ensures a good sear.
- Be sure to let the chicken rest after seasoning to allow the flavors to penetrate.
- Cook the chicken without moving it for 6-7 minutes on each side. This helps it brown nicely.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—it should read 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken and let it rest again for a few minutes before serving; this keeps it juicy!
How to Make Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (like basil and oregano)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Marry Me Chicken recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend approximately 10 minutes prepping and 20 minutes cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This will help enhance the chicken’s natural flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want them to turn golden brown and be fully cooked. Once they are done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic smells fragrant and is lightly golden. Then, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer.
4. Add Flavor to the Sauce:
Next, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and dried Italian herbs. Let the sauce simmer for about 3-5 minutes so it thickens slightly, giving it a rich and creamy texture.
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Carefully return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. Allow it to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, so the chicken absorbs all those delightful flavors. Yum!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When everything is ready, serve the chicken on plates and garnish with fresh parsley. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle on some red pepper flakes. Enjoy this delicious meal that’s sure to impress!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra moisture and flavor. Just cook them a bit longer since they are thicker; aim for 7-8 minutes per side until they have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and butter (for every cup of heavy cream, mix 3/4 cup milk with 1/4 cup melted butter). For a dairy-free version, try coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk with a bit of cornstarch to thicken.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Marry Me Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers would be great additions. Simply sauté them along with the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and nutrition!
