Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, dreamy dish that’s sure to win anyone’s heart! With tender chicken cooked in a rich sauce made from sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan, it’s a real crowd-pleaser.
Let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to cook this up for a special someone? 😍 I love how easy it is; just pan sear the chicken, pour on that luscious sauce, and serve it with pasta or rice. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless work best for this recipe as they stay tender. If you want something different, chicken thighs can add more flavor and moisture.
Heavy Cream: This is key for a rich sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They contribute a great tangy flavor. If you don’t have them, roasted red peppers can serve as a suitable substitute, bringing a slightly sweet taste instead.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice nuttiness. For a vegetarian option, use a hard cheese like Pecorino Romano. Nutritional yeast could also work for a dairy-free spin.
Red Pepper Flakes: These are optional, but they add a nice kick! If you prefer mild flavors, you can skip them or use a pinch of paprika for a subtle warmth.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken so it’s juicy and not dry can be tricky. Here’s how to make it perfect:
- Always season your chicken well before cooking; this enhances the flavor.
- Heat your skillet to medium-high before adding the chicken. This helps form a golden crust.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side without fussing with them too much. Trust the timing!
- Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. A meat thermometer is super helpful for this.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps the juices locked in!
How to Make Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and easy, with just the right amount of time to get that delicious creamy sauce ready to accompany the chicken!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts. Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder all over the chicken. Make sure to coat them well for maximum 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. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and completely cooked through. Once done, take the chicken out and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the heavy cream, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes. This will allow the sauce to thicken up nicely.
4. Combine and Simmer:
Now it’s time to bring back the chicken! Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet and spoon the creamy sauce generously over the top. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, so the chicken can soak up some of that delicious flavor.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch. This dish is great served with pasta or alongside crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. Enjoy your Marry Me Chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to thaw it completely first! Thaw frozen chicken breasts in the fridge overnight for the best results or use a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for a quicker method. Make sure to pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before seasoning and cooking.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream with a Lighter Option?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch to help thicken the sauce. Keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich, but it will still be delicious!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can also freeze the chicken and sauce mixture for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
Certainly! If you prefer fresh tomatoes, you can chop them up and add them to the sauce. Use about 1 cup of diced fresh tomatoes and allow them to cook down for a few extra minutes to release their juices. This will give you a fresh flavor and a slightly different texture in the sauce.
