Marry Me Chicken Recipe: A Delicious and Flavorful Dish

Marry Me Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that has earned its name for a reason. This creamy, rich, and flavorful recipe brings together the savory goodness of chicken with a sun-dried tomato cream sauce that is so irresistible, it might just make someone pop the question! With tender chicken breasts cooked to perfection and bathed in a creamy, sun-dried tomato sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and parmesan, this dish will quickly become a household favorite. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for two or serving a special meal for family or friends, Marry Me Chicken delivers a dish full of warmth and flavor that everyone will love. Simple ingredients, quick preparation, and outstanding taste make this recipe a winner every time.

The combination of the crispy chicken, the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, and the fresh basil creates a harmonious balance of textures and flavors. If you’re looking for a dish to impress, this recipe checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s easy to make, which means you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this unforgettable Marry Me Chicken dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Marry Me Chicken is a simple yet incredibly satisfying meal. The tender, juicy chicken breasts are seared to perfection, creating a delicious golden crust while staying moist on the inside. The sun-dried tomato cream sauce adds a burst of savory and slightly tangy flavor, with a rich, velvety texture from the cream and parmesan. Fresh garlic and basil round out the sauce, elevating the flavor profile even further. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent yet comforting, and it pairs perfectly with your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. It’s sure to be a hit at any dinner gathering or family meal.

Ingredients

For Chicken

• Chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil

For the Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

• Minced garlic cloves
• Chicken broth
• All-purpose flour
• Heavy cream
• Sun-dried tomatoes in oil
• Sun-dried tomato oil
• Tomato paste
• Dried oregano
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh chopped basil
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese

Variations

While this Marry Me Chicken recipe is already packed with flavor, there are several ways you can customize it to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

• Vegetarian Version: For a meat-free alternative, you can use tofu or tempeh in place of the chicken. Make sure to sear it just like the chicken for a crispy exterior.
• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy spicy dishes, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add some hot sauce to the cream sauce for a fiery punch.
• Dairy-Free: Swap the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free parmesan alternative to make the recipe dairy-free.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to change up the flavor of the sauce.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Slice the chicken breasts into strips lengthwise. Season the pieces with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken strips to the pan and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Garlic

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Add chicken broth and flour to the skillet. Stir well and allow the mixture to thicken.

Step 5: Add the Cream and Seasonings

Pour in the heavy cream, followed by the sun-dried tomatoes, sun-dried tomato oil, tomato paste, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 2-3 minutes until it thickens.

Step 6: Finish the Sauce

Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in chopped fresh basil and freshly grated parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and the cheese is fully melted.

Step 7: Combine the Chicken and Sauce

Add the cooked chicken pieces back to the skillet, allowing the sauce to coat the chicken thoroughly. Stir gently.

Step 8: Serve

Transfer the chicken and sauce to serving plates. Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing the chicken. Work in batches if necessary to achieve a golden crust on each piece.
• Adjust the sauce thickness by adding more chicken broth if it becomes too thick, or simmering a bit longer for a thicker sauce.
• Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes for the best flavor. The oil from the jar is also a key ingredient in creating a rich sauce.
• Freshly grated parmesan will give the sauce the best texture and flavor, so avoid pre-grated cheese.

How to Serve

Marry Me Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with many sides. Serve it over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice to soak up the creamy sauce. You can also pair it with steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans for a well-rounded meal. For a low-carb option, serve it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Marry Me Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the chicken.

Freezing

While the chicken can be frozen, the cream sauce may separate upon thawing. If you plan to freeze it, it’s best to freeze the chicken and sauce separately, then reheat and combine when ready to serve.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to bring it back to the desired consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and will provide a slightly richer flavor.

2. Can I use a different type of cream for the sauce?

Heavy cream is best for a rich, velvety texture, but you can substitute it with half-and-half for a lighter option.

3. How spicy is this recipe?

The recipe is mildly spicy due to the red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more or less.

4. Can I use fresh sun-dried tomatoes instead of the jarred ones?

While jarred sun-dried tomatoes in oil are preferred for their flavor and texture, you can use fresh sun-dried tomatoes if that’s what you have.

5. Can I use non-dairy milk for the sauce?

You can use non-dairy milk, but the sauce may not be as rich. Consider using coconut cream for a more similar texture.

6. Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then reheat it before serving.

7. How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

The chicken should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.

8. Can I make this recipe without the cheese?

Yes, you can skip the cheese for a dairy-free version, but it will slightly alter the creaminess of the sauce.

9. How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce for a longer time or add a little extra flour to thicken it to your desired consistency.

10. What should I serve with Marry Me Chicken?

This dish goes well with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or vegetables like asparagus or green beans.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken is a delicious, indulgent dish that is sure to impress anyone who tries it. The combination of crispy chicken and a rich, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce is a match made in culinary heaven. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is perfect for a special dinner or a cozy weeknight meal. It’s versatile enough to be customized to your liking, and it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a romantic dinner or a weeknight treat, this recipe will never disappoint!

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