Marry Me Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is everything you could want in a comforting, flavorful meal. The chicken breasts are cooked to perfection, juicy and tender, while the sauce is velvety and packed with savory, spicy, and slightly tangy notes. The sundried tomatoes bring a punch of umami, and the Parmesan cheese melts perfectly into the sauce, creating an indulgent finish. The recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for special occasions, making it a perfect go-to for any meal. Plus, the fresh basil adds a pop of brightness that elevates the entire dish.

Ingredients

• 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
• 3-4 Large Chicken Breasts
• Salt
• Pepper
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Thyme
• 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (may add only 1/2 teaspoon for less spice)
• 3/4 cup Chicken Broth
• 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
• 1/2 cup Sundried Tomatoes (chopped)
• 1/4 – 1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
• Fresh Basil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Stir in the thyme and red pepper flakes, allowing the spices to bloom in the oil.
6. Add the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Let the broth reduce slightly for 2-3 minutes.
7. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped sundried tomatoes, and let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
8. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue to cook for another minute, allowing the sauce to become creamy and smooth.
9. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top, simmering for an additional 5 minutes so the chicken can absorb the flavors.
10. Garnish with freshly chopped basil and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: For an extra layer of flavor, add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce. These veggies complement the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Make it Spicier: If you prefer a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Use Chicken Thighs: Instead of chicken breasts, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk or almond milk in place of the heavy cream and skip the Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free version.
• Herb Variations: While basil is fantastic, you can swap it for fresh parsley, thyme, or oregano for a different herb profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken when stored, so you can add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a little more cream or broth to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, you can microwave it in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this dish. They will add extra flavor and tenderness to the recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat the sauce before adding the chicken to finish the dish.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?

Yes, you can use other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a slightly different flavor. However, Parmesan is ideal because it melts well and adds a great depth of flavor.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

If you prefer a spicier dish, simply add more red pepper flakes to the sauce, or drizzle some hot sauce over the finished dish.

5. What can I serve with Marry Me Chicken?

This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. For a low-carb option, serve it with roasted vegetables or cauliflower rice.

6. Can I use jarred sundried tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, jarred sundried tomatoes work just as well in this dish. Be sure to chop them finely before adding them to the sauce.

7. Can I use non-dairy alternatives for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or almond milk for a dairy-free version. Just be aware that it may alter the flavor slightly.

8. Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Absolutely! You can add spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.

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

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can cut into the thickest part of the chicken to check that it’s no longer pink inside.

10. Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the chicken and sauce together in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove with a little added cream or broth.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken is a deliciously creamy, flavorful dish that is sure to win over anyone lucky enough to try it. With its rich, savory sauce and perfectly cooked chicken, this recipe is guaranteed to make any meal feel like a celebration. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this dish will always impress!

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