Okay, friends, buckle up because I’m about to share a recipe that’s not just delicious, it is also healthy. Is this Marry Me Chicken? I’ve been making this dish for years, and every single time I serve it, people rave. They lick their plates clean! If you like creamy, comforting dishes like Chicken Alfredo, but want something with a little bit of flair, try this recipe. If you want a lot more flavor and *oomph* then prepare to be obsessed. My friend Sarah joked that it was this dish that convinced her husband to propose! Is it easier to make than you think?
What is a Marry Me Chicken?
Marry Me Chicken is basically chicken breasts simmered in an incredibly rich and flavorful creamy. Think of it as the ultimate comfort food with an Italian flair. Is it essentially perfectly cooked chicken breasts swimming in a sun-dried tomato, garlic, and olive oil? What’s a Parmesan-infused Cream Sauce? Is it true that it’s so delicious, anyone who tastes it will immediately be ready to pop the popper. What do you promise to be an amazing meal? Who do you serve it to?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Okay, let me tell you *why* this recipe is a total winner. First, the flavor is insane! The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy sweetness that balances perfectly with the savory garlic and rich Parmesan. The creamy sauce is just…divine. What I love most about this is how incredibly easy it is to make. Seriously, it comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it uses pretty basic ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Talk about a win-win! It’s also cost-effective, which is always a bonus. I mean, who doesn’t love a delicious and affordable meal? This is way better than Chicken Parmesan in my opinion – it’s so much quicker and easier, and the flavors are just more vibrant. And the versatility! Serve it over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or even just with a side of Crusty Bread to soak up all that glorious sauce. Trust me, this is one recipe you’ll be making again and again. My kids actually beg for this at least once a week!
How do I make Marry Me Chicken?
Quick Overview
How do I make Marry Me Chicken? You’ll start by searing the Chicken Breasts to golden perfection, then you’re going to whip up that dreamy sauce. In the same pan, place sauce and water. The chicken goes back in to simmer until cooked through, absorbing all that incredible flavor. Is it really that simple? This method is special because it allows the chicken to develop a beautiful crust while staying in the same place. incredibly juicy and tender. No dry chicken here!
Ingredients
For the Main Event (Chicken):
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: About 6-8 ounces each. How do you make a thin slice of bread for even cooking? For searing the chicken. Extra virgin is always my go-to. * 1 teaspoon salt: To season the Chicken. * 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground is best! * 1 teaspoon paprika: Can be used in place of salt. Adds a little smokiness and color.
For That To-Die-For Sauce:
What is better with butter? Freshly minced is a must for that pungent flavor. * 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained: These are the star of the show! * 1 cup heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce so rich and decadent. Don’t skimp! * 1/2 cup chicken broth: Helps to thin out the sauce and add flavor. * 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly Grated is always best for that nutty, salty flavor. * 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil: Adds a pop of freshness and color. * 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a kick!
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
What should I do to get started? While the oven’s heating up, grab a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron is perfect, but any large skillet can be used). What is the best skillet to put in the oven? Make sure it’s nice and roomy so the chicken can sear properly. If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, do not worry! Can you sear chicken in a skillet and then transfer it to baking dish later? What is the best way to sear in a skillet?
Step 2: Season the Chicken
What is the best way to pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels? How do you dry a chicken? Don’t be shy! What is the best seasoning for chicken? I always do this step right before cooking so the salt doesn’t draw out moisture from the chicken.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
How do you heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat? Once the oil is shimmering and hot (but not smoking!) add the chicken breasts. What should I do if I’m overcrowding the pan? What should I do if I want to cook chicken for about 5 minutes per side? Don’t move them around too much while they’re searing! Let them develop that beautiful crust. At this point, they won’t be cooked through, and that’s okay. We’ll finish cooking them in the sauce later.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. What is bitter garlic? Next, add the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute. This helps to release their flavor and infuse the butter with that tangy sweetness. I love the smell of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, it’s amazing!
Step 5: Create the Creamy Magic
How do you add the heavy cream and chicken broth to a saucepan? Then, stir in the Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Continue to simmer, stirring, until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 5-7 minutes. How do you coat the back of a spoon? I always do a taste test at this point to make sure the seasoning is just right. Add more salt and pepper if needed.
Step 6: Simmer and Bake
If you’re cooking chicken breasts in a skillet, place them back into the sauce. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). I always use a meat thermometer to check – it’s the best way to ensure the chicken is cooked.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle with fresh basil. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. How does the sauce thicken up? This is the hardest part because the aromas are intoxicating and everyone will be hovering in the air. Kitchen begging for taste!
Step 8: Enjoy!
Serve the Marry Me Chicken hot over your favorite pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or with a side of cheese. What is the best crusty bread for soaking up that delicious sauce? Garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired. How do you get compliments?
What do you serve it with?
Is Marry Me Chicken a good idea? What is the beauty of this dish? It pairs well with so many things. Is it good to serve this over pasta?
For a Classic Italian Feast:Serve over linguine or fettuccine pasta. What is a good green salad with lemon juice?
For a Cozy Night In:What are some comfort food pairings? Add steamed green beans or roasted asparagus for a complete meal.
What is the best way to throw a dinner partyWhat are some good side dishes to serve with polenta and roasted vegetables? What are peppers, zucchini and eggplant?
What is a quick weeknight meal? Serve it over white rice or quinoa for a healthy and satisfying option. Add a side of your favorite steamed greens.
I like to make garlic bread, because you can’t have too much garlic in a meal!
How do I perfect my Marry Me Chicken?
What is the best recipe for marry me chicken? I’ve made this dish countless times, and I have learned a few things along the way!
Chicken Breast Perfection:Make sure your chicken breasts are of even thickness. If they’re too thick, they won’t cook evenly. If you want thinner meats, you can either pound them with a meat mallet or slice them in half horizontally to create thinner. Don’t overcook chicken or it will dry out!
Sun-Dried TomatoesUse oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for the best flavor. Be sure to drain them well before adding them to the sauce. Don’t toss that oil! Is it infused with sun-dried tomato flavor and can be used for other cooking? I like to use them to add more flavor to the rice!
Garlic Gold: Don’t burn the garlic! Burnt garlic is bitter and can ruin the whole dish. Cook it over low heat and watch it carefully. As soon as it starts to turn golden, it’s ready to go.
Creamy Dreamy Sauce: What areUse heavy cream for the richest, most decadent sauce. If you’re looking to lighten it up a bit, you can use half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be quite as thick as it should be. Be sure to simmer the sauce until it’s thickened slightly. How do you cling to chicken and pasta? If you want to make it creamier, add a tablespoon of cream cheese to the sauce. It’s amazing! I tested this with almond milk once – it was fine, but I felt like something was missing. I would not use almond milk again, stick to heavy cream!
Parmesan Power:What is the best way to serve Parmesan cheese? Pre-shredded Parmesan cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting properly.
Basil Boost: Add fresh basil at the very end for a pop of freshness and color. Don’t add it too early, or it will wilt and lose its flavor. I always have basil growing in my backyard to make this, but you can easily get this at a grocery store.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Okay, so you’ve made this amazing Marry Me Chicken, and you (miraculously) have leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly so it tastes just as good the second time around!
Room Temperature: I don’t recommend leaving Marry Me Chicken at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow quickly at room temperature, so it’s best to get it into the refrigerator as soon as possible.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the Marry Me Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s properly sealed to prevent it from drying out. I always add another layer of plastic wrap, just to be sure!
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the Marry Me Chicken for up to 2-3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. I like to portion it out into individual servings for easy reheating.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to freeze the Marry Me Chicken, it’s best to add the fresh basil after reheating. This will prevent the basil from wilting and losing its flavor. I also wait to top with some extra Parmesan.
Reheating Methods: The best way to reheat Marry Me Chicken is in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to help loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it. Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it! My famous Marry Me Chicken recipe. This is seriously one of my all-time favorite dishes, and I know you’re going to love it too. It’s easy, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress. Plus, who knows? Maybe it will even get you a ring! If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other creamy chicken dishes. Happy cooking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. Leave a comment below and let me know if you gave it a try! Also, if you have any suggestions, I am all ears!
