Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, dreamy dish featuring juicy chicken cooked in a rich sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs. It’s a meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Trust me, the flavors are so good, you might just find yourself planning a wedding over dinner! 😂 I love serving this with pasta or rice to soak up all that yummy sauce.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy cooking. If you prefer, thighs work well too for added flavor and moisture. They will take a little longer to cook but will be very tender.
Heavy Cream: This gives richness to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can try half-and-half or a dairy-free cream, but the sauce won’t be as creamy. I recommend using organic for a brighter flavor.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a wonderful tangy flavor. If you can’t find them, try fresh tomatoes for a lighter taste, though you might want to sauté them a little longer.
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese adds salt and depth to the sauce. Grated Parmesan is best, but you could use Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Fresh Herbs: Basil and parsley provide freshness and brightness. If you run out of fresh herbs, dried herbs can work in a pinch, but I always prefer fresh whenever possible for their vibrant flavor.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the chicken just right can be tricky, but following these steps will help ensure you’re successful:
- Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Heat the skillet and add oil before placing the chicken, which helps it sear properly.
- Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes. Don’t rush—let it develop a golden crust!
- Check for doneness; the thickest part should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Resting the chicken briefly after cooking before cutting into it helps retain its juices, leading to a more tender result.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), chopped
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Marry Me Chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking, totaling around 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. This simple step ensures that your chicken is flavorful right from the start!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked. After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Now add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. This adds a wonderful aroma to your sauce!
4. Combine Ingredients for the Sauce:
Next, pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Add in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Mix everything well and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken a little.
5. Finish Cooking the Chicken:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the creamy sauce over the top. Let it cook for an additional minute to make sure everything is heated through and nicely mixed together.
6. Add Fresh Herbs:
Just before serving, stir in the fresh chopped basil. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with a bit more salt and pepper if you like. Fresh herbs really uplift the flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chicken topped with the creamy sauce, garnished with additional basil and parsley for a lovely presentation. Enjoy your delightful Marry Me Chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just be sure to thaw it completely first. The best methods are to leave it in the fridge overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker thaw. Once thawed, pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning and cooking.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream with a Lighter Option?
Absolutely! If you want a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream. However, your sauce may be a bit less creamy and rich. For a dairy-free option, consider using coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, adjusting seasonings to taste.
What’s the Best Way 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 freeze the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level of the Dish?
If you prefer a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce while it simmers. For a milder flavor, use less garlic or opt for fresh herbs like thyme or oregano, which can provide flavor without the heat.
