Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, dreamy dish that brings chicken and sun-dried tomatoes together in perfect harmony. It’s easy to make and full of flavor!
Believe me, this is the kind of dish that might just make your heart swoon! I love serving it with pasta or rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. ❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish as they cook quickly and stay tender. If you prefer, you can use thighs which add more flavor, or even turkey if that’s what you have on hand.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free version. If you want less fat, opt for a low-fat cream or make a roux with less butter and flour for creaminess.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a rich flavor, but if they’re not available, you could use roasted red peppers or fresh tomatoes for a different twist. Just sauté them a bit longer to soften.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds depth to the sauce. Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) can be used as substitutes while still keeping the richness.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Searing Chicken?
Searing chicken is crucial for building flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding oil and butter. This helps create a golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give the chicken space. Cooking in batches is better if needed.
- Only flip the chicken once it’s golden brown, allowing it to develop that wonderful crust.
Remember, patience is key! The crispy exterior locks in moisture, making your chicken juicy. Adjust the heat as needed—if it’s browning too quickly, lower it slightly.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably in oil)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook. In total, you should plan for about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by taking your chicken breasts and seasoning them generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will help enhance the delicious flavors as they cook!
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil and butter. Once melted and hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Afterward, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, stay with that lovely flavor! Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Then, pour in the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing those flavors to combine beautifully.
4. Combine and Simmer:
Now, it’s time to return the seared chicken to the skillet. Spoon some of that creamy sauce over the chicken and let it all simmer together for another 3-5 minutes. This helps the chicken heat through and soak up those amazing flavors.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve your Marry Me Chicken with pasta, rice, or alongside some crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few extra minutes to cook through compared to breasts. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes, if you want a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind that the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream or a non-dairy heavy cream substitute, which can give a similar texture while adding a slight coconut flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to help rejuvenate the sauce if it thickens too much.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes, feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. Add them to the skillet after sautéing the garlic, allowing them to cook briefly before adding the cream and other ingredients. Enjoy the added texture and color!
