Marry Me Chicken
Fall in love with Marry Me Chicken, a creamy, cheesy, sun-dried tomato dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes! Tender chicken breasts are seared to perfection and simmered in a luscious garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, infused with herbs and a hint of lemon. This irresistible one-pan meal is so delicious, it might just inspire a proposal!
Why Marry Me Chicken?
This dish combines juicy chicken with a rich, velvety sauce packed with bold flavors from sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, and fresh basil. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for date night or special occasions, making it a versatile crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 650 g (1.5 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4): Tender and lean.
- 50 g (6 tablespoons) all-purpose flour: For a light coating.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing.
- 3 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed: Adds aromatic depth.
- 150 g (1 cup) sun-dried tomatoes, drained: For tangy, bold flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Earthy and herbaceous.
- 2 teaspoons paprika: Adds warmth and color.
- 150 ml (3/4 cup) double cream (or heavy cream): Creates a luscious sauce.
- 200 ml (3/4 cup) chicken stock: Balances the creaminess.
- 50 g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese: For cheesy richness.
- 15 g (3 tablespoons) fresh basil leaves: For a fresh, aromatic finish.
- Juice of 1/2 lemon: Brightens the flavors.
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Enhances overall taste.
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Lightly coat each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess to ensure a thin, even layer.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Reduce heat to medium-low. Add garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and paprika. Stir for 3–5 minutes until the garlic softens and the mixture is fragrant.
- Build the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the double cream, chicken stock, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Simmer the Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over each piece. Cover and cook for 5 minutes, then flip and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and scatter with basil leaves. Serve hot with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips for Perfect Marry Me Chicken
- Even Cooking: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
- Fresh Parmesan: Grate your own Parmesan for better flavor and smoother melting compared to pre-grated varieties.
- Customize Veggies: Add baby spinach, mushrooms, or artichoke hearts for extra texture and flavor.
- Make It Juicier: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a richer, more forgiving cut.
FAQs
Can I Prepare Marry Me Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes, cook the chicken and sauce up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or stock if needed. Add fresh basil just before serving.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Freeze the cooked chicken and sauce (without basil) for up to 2 months in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently. Add fresh basil after reheating.
What Can I Serve with Marry Me Chicken?
Pair with the Creamy Chicken and Carrot Spread as an appetizer, and the Chilled Creamy Fruit Bowl, Winter Window Fruit Trifle, or Best Banana Bread Cookies for dessert. For brunch, serve with the Quick and Easy Cheesy Tapioca Pancake. It also complements the Parmesan Crusted Chicken or Crispy Baked Chicken Cordon Bleu for a chicken-themed menu.
Can I Make It Dairy-Free?
Substitute double cream with coconut cream and Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative. Use vegan butter or olive oil in place of butter.
Can I Make It Gluten-Free?
Use a gluten-free flour blend for coating the chicken, or skip the flour and simply season the chicken before searing.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 550–600 kcal
- Servings: 4
Conclusion
Marry Me Chicken is a quick, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce that’s sure to win hearts. Perfect for weeknight dinners or romantic meals, this one-pan wonder is as easy as it is delicious. Serve it with your favorite sides and savor the love in every bite!