This Marry Me Chicken is a dreamy dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone want second helpings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here, as they cook quickly and absorb the flavors well. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or coconut cream can be a nice substitute, but it will alter the flavor slightly.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They add a burst of flavor. If fresh tomatoes are what you have, you can use them, but toss them in right after the garlic so they can soften. You could also use roasted red peppers as a substitute.
Italian Seasoning: This blend adds a wonderful herby flavor. You can easily make your own by mixing dried basil, oregano, and thyme if you don’t have pre-mixed seasoning handy.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
To keep your chicken moist and flavorful, follow these tips:
- Be careful not to overcook the chicken. Searing on medium-high heat gives it a nice crust. Always check with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender and juicy.
- Cover the skillet while it’s simmering in the sauce; this helps steam the chicken and lock in moisture.
Easy Marry Me Chicken Recipe with Creamy Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delightful dish requires about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time, bringing the total to approximately 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special!
Detailed Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper. This simple step ensures your chicken is full of flavor right from the start!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them until they’re golden brown on both sides, which should take about 4-5 minutes per side. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Base:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This is where a lot of flavor lies! Allow the mixture to simmer for about 2 minutes to slightly reduce.
5. Add Cream and Cheese:
Lower the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, dried Italian seasoning, and the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the sauce is creamy and the cheese has melted.
6. Combine Chicken with Sauce:
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, ensuring they are coated in that delicious creamy sauce. Spoon some sauce over the top and cover with a lid. Let it simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and reaches the internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped basil for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot alongside crusty bread, pasta, rice, or your favorite steamed vegetables. Enjoy this comforting and elegant meal!
FAQ for Easy Marry Me Chicken Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is overnight in the fridge, or you can place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker method. Always ensure the chicken is at room temperature for even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Keep in mind that this may change the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious! For a dairy-free option, coconut cream works particularly well.
How Long Do Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little cream or broth if needed to keep the sauce creamy.
What Can I Serve with Marry Me Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. You could also serve it with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
