Easy Marry Me Chicken
Imagine a dish so delicious that it has the power to sweep anyone off their feet. This Easy Marry Me Chicken is that recipe. With tender chicken breasts enveloped in a creamy, garlic-infused sauce, it’s a meal that’s perfect for a romantic dinner or a cozy family gathering. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese adds a burst of flavor, making this dish irresistible. Whether you’re serving it to a loved one or simply indulging yourself, this chicken dish is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Easy Marry Me Chicken is not just another dinner recipe; it’s a celebration of flavor and simplicity. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:
- Quick and Easy: Made in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed: The blend of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy sauce creates a taste explosion.
- Versatile: Pair it with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Impressive Presentation: Serve it up with a sprinkle of fresh basil for a gorgeous finish.
Ingredient Breakdown
To create this mouthwatering Easy Marry Me Chicken, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breast – The star of the dish, providing lean protein.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Complements the garlic beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – A touch of spice.
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil – For sautéing the chicken.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness to the sauce.
- 4 medium garlic cloves, minced – Fresh garlic is key for that aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes – For a hint of heat.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the sauce.
- 1 cup chicken broth – Adds savory depth.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream – Creates a luscious, creamy sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that brings everything together.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – For seasoning.
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained – Adds a sweet and tangy flavor.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – For a cheesy finish.
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, at room temperature – Adds extra creaminess.
- Chopped fresh basil, for garnish – Brightens up the dish.
Toolbox for This Recipe
Before diving into cooking, make sure you have these essential tools ready:
- Large Skillet: For searing the chicken and making the sauce.
- Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked.
- Wooden Spoon: For stirring and combining ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key in cooking.
- Chopping Board: To prepare your garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.
Easy Marry Me Chicken, Made Easy
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Easy Marry Me Chicken:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with the garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Make sure each piece is evenly coated.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Create the Flavorful Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the unsalted butter, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the garlic mixture and stir well to combine. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for about 2 minutes until the mixture starts to thicken.
Step 5: Add Cream and Seasonings
Pour in the heavy whipping cream and add the Italian seasoning. Stir until well combined. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, grated Parmesan cheese, and cream cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Step 7: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm the chicken through.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Serve the Easy Marry Me Chicken hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil. Pair it with pasta, rice, or a salad for a complete meal. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!
Year-Round Variations
This Easy Marry Me Chicken is versatile, allowing you to switch things up based on the season or your taste preferences:
- Add spinach or kale for a nutrient boost.
- Incorporate mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
- Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or goat cheese, for a unique twist.
- Swap sun-dried tomatoes for roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile.
Common Errors (and Fixes)
Cooking is all about learning from experience. Here are some common mistakes and how to fix them:
- Chicken is Dry: Avoid overcooking the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s perfectly cooked.
- Too Thick Sauce: If your sauce is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.
- Flavor Lacking: Always taste and adjust seasoning. A little salt and pepper can go a long way!
- Garlic Burning: Keep an eye on the garlic while sautéing. If it burns, it can make the dish taste bitter.
Prep Ahead & Store
Making this dish ahead of time? Here’s how to prep and store your Easy Marry Me Chicken:
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before adding the chicken.
- Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and moisture. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream?
Yes! You can use coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative for a similar texture.
Can I freeze the Easy Marry Me Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad.
The Takeaway
Easy Marry Me Chicken is more than just a dish; it’s a loving embrace on a plate. With its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Perfect for a date night or a comforting family meal, this recipe is as uncomplicated as it is delicious. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy making this culinary delight that could very well win hearts around the dinner table!
Easy Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken - Season the chicken breasts with the garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Ensure even coating.
- Step 2: Sear the Chicken - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, sear for 5-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Step 3: Create the Flavorful Sauce - In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Step 4: Thicken the Sauce - Sprinkle flour over garlic mixture, stir well. Gradually pour in chicken broth, stirring constantly. Cook for about 2 minutes until thickened.
- Step 5: Add Cream and Seasonings - Pour in cream and add Italian seasoning. Simmer for 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 6: Add Finishing Touches - Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, and cream cheese until melted and creamy.
- Step 7: Combine Chicken and Sauce - Return chicken to skillet, spoon sauce over top. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to warm through.
- Step 8: Serve and Garnish - Serve hot, garnished with basil. Pair with pasta, rice, or salad. Enjoy!
Notes
- Make the sauce ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently, adding broth or cream if sauce thickens.
