Marry Me Chicken is a creamy and delicious dish that’s hard to resist! It’s made with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich sauce that makes every bite feel special.
This dish has a magical way of impressing anyone at the dinner table. When I make it, I always joke that it’s the secret to winning hearts! đź’– Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe, but you can use thighs if you prefer a juicier option. Thighs can add extra flavor and tenderness.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add rich flavor. If you don’t have them, fresh tomatoes can work too. Just cook them down until they’re soft and saucy. You could also use roasted red peppers for a different twist!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or use coconut cream as a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that coconut cream will change the flavor slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is ideal, but if you’re out, try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option. Both can give a lovely cheesy flavor to the dish.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken can be tricky! Here’s how to ensure your chicken turns out juicy:
- Start by seasoning your chicken breasts well with salt and pepper. This enhances the flavor.
- When you sear the chicken, don’t overcrowd the skillet. It helps achieve that golden crust.
- Cook the chicken over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F or 74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after searing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
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:
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained and chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a few minutes seasoning and sautĂ©ing the chicken, then whipping up a creamy sauce filled with flavors from sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavors as they cook.
2. Searing the Chicken:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sautéing Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it softens. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until you can smell its wonderful aroma.
4. Adding Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Herbs:
Next, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Cook that mixture for about 2 minutes to combine the flavors.
5. Making the Cream Sauce:
Now, pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until you see the sauce thicken slightly.
6. Stirring in Parmesan Cheese:
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and combined throughout. Taste the sauce, and add more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Combining Chicken with Sauce:
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, making sure to spoon some of that delicious cream sauce over the top. Allow it to simmer for a few more minutes until the chicken is heated through.
8. Serving and Garnishing:
Finally, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Marry Me Chicken, perfect for impressing your loved ones!
### FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure it’s completely thawed first! Thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat dry with paper towels to avoid extra moisture in the pan before cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk as a substitute for heavy cream. For a non-dairy version, opt for a cream alternative like cashew cream or almond milk, but know that the sauce may not be as rich.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to refresh the sauce. Avoid reheating in the microwave to prevent the chicken from drying out.
Can I Make Marry Me Chicken Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. To serve, simply reheat the sauce and chicken together in a skillet.
