Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, dreamy dish that is sure to impress! It’s made with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich sauce that makes every bite feel special.
Honestly, the first time I made this, I was convinced I might just get proposed to! 😂 No fancy skills needed—just a few ingredients and a bit of love, and dinner is ready.
I love to serve it over pasta or rice for a cozy meal. It’s perfect for date night or any time you want to feel fancy at home. Give it a try, and you might just win hearts! ❤️
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for quick cooking. If you’re looking for a substitute, try chicken thighs for a juicier option, or even meat alternatives like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian twist.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a rich flavor to the dish. If you don’t have them, roasted red peppers or fresh tomatoes can work too. Just keep in mind the flavor will change a bit!
Heavy Cream: This gives a creamy texture to the sauce. If you’re watching calories or needing a dairy-free option, coconut milk or cashew cream can be good alternatives.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for full flavor, but if you’re out of Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
Red Pepper Flakes: These are optional but add a nice kick! If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to leave them out or substitute with a pinch of paprika for a different flavor.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Sautéed Garlic?
Getting the garlic just right is important because it adds a deep flavor to the sauce. The key is to sauté it gently, so it doesn’t burn and turn bitter. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your oil is hot, but not smoking. Medium-high heat is perfect.
- Add the minced garlic and stir constantly for about 1 minute until it’s golden and fragrant. Don’t walk away!
- If it starts to brown too quickly, lower the heat. Remember, burnt garlic is not tasty.
Following these tips will help you achieve that wonderful garlic aroma without any bitterness in your dish!
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:
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to cook, making a total of about 35-40 minutes. You’ll enjoy every minute of creating this creamy, flavorful chicken dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This adds great flavor and helps the chicken taste delicious!
2. Searing the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear them for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and no longer pink inside. When done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Making the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant. Then, mix in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes, letting those flavors blend together.
4. Adding Liquid Ingredients:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer, making sure to scrape any tasty bits off the bottom of the pan. This adds even more flavor to your sauce!
5. Creamy Sauce Creation:
Reduce the heat to low, and then pour in the heavy cream. Mix it well. Next, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and if you like a little kick, the red pepper flakes. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Combining it All:
Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, placing it into the creamy sauce. Spoon some of that delicious sauce over the chicken, allowing it to heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Final Touches:
Once everything is heated and well combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your Marry Me Chicken with fresh chopped parsley, and it’s ready to serve! Enjoy your wonderful meal!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra moisture and flavor to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through—look for an internal temperature of 165°F.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you need a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Note that using coconut milk will alter the flavor slightly, but it can add a nice richness!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re using plastic wrap, make sure it’s sealed tightly to avoid moisture loss. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes, definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers when you sauté the garlic. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure everything is tender but not overcooked.
