Introduction to Marry Me Chicken
If you're looking for a dish that combines simple ingredients with spectacular flavor, look no further than Marry Me Chicken. This succulent chicken recipe, enveloped in a creamy sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan, is so delicious that many believe it could win over anyone’s heart! Whether you’re trying to impress a date or simply treating yourself to something special, this one-pan meal ticks all the boxes for convenience, taste, and elegance.
Why is it called “Marry Me Chicken”?
The name Marry Me Chicken has an interesting backstory. The dish reportedly gained its name because of its ability to wow diners so much that it could inspire a marriage proposal. The tantalizing blend of flavors and creamy texture has a way of making anyone fall in love with it—especially when paired with a steaming bowl of pasta!
It's not just about the taste; it’s the experience! Cooking this dish invites warmth and romance into your home, perfectly suited for a cozy evening in. If you’re curious about how to elevate your weeknight dinners or impress a guest, this creamy creation is here to deliver. Stay tuned for the full recipe below, and let’s make some culinary magic happen!
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken
Essential ingredients for a creamy delight
When whipping up your Marry Me Chicken, you'll need a few foundational ingredients that create the base for this creamy, dreamy dish:
- Chicken Breasts: The star of the show! Tender, boneless chicken breasts (about 2 pieces) provide the perfect canvas.
- Heavy Cream: This is what gives your sauce that rich, velvety texture. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing!
- Sun-dried Tomatoes: These add intense flavor and a touch of brightness. Look for ones in oil for the best taste.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan not only enhances the flavor but also helps thicken the sauce.
- Garlic and Onion: These aromatics are essential for depth and a brilliant sautéed flavor.
Optional ingredients for added flavor
Want to take your Marry Me Chicken to the next level? Consider adding these optional ingredients:
- Fresh Herbs: Basil and parsley can enhance the freshness of your dish. Don’t skip the basil—it’s a game changer!
- Vegetable Oil and Butter: A combination gives you that perfect sear on the chicken while adding rich flavor to your sauce.
- Italian Herb Blend: This will give you that classic Italian taste profile that makes this meal feel both homey and special.
By selecting quality ingredients—like using organic chicken or locally sourced sun-dried tomatoes—you ensure every bite is filled with love. This Marry Me Chicken recipe is not just about cooking; it's about creating an unforgettable experience.
For more tips on selecting quality ingredients, check out USDA Organic standards.
Preparing Marry Me Chicken
Making Marry Me Chicken is a delightful culinary adventure that can elevate any weeknight meal to something truly special. This dish features creamy goodness infused with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, making it perfect for impressing that special someone. Let’s break it down step by step, shall we?
Prepare the chicken
Start your journey by prepping your chicken breasts. Place them in a heavy-duty freezer bag or between two sheets of plastic wrap, and using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound them until they are about ½ inch thick. This not only helps them cook evenly but also makes them tender. Once you’ve got them ready, pat them dry, and season both sides with a sprinkle of salt and freshly cracked black pepper. The seasoning is key to ensuring that delicious flavor comes through.
Season and flour the chicken
Next, it's time for the fun part: coating that chicken! Take about ¼ cup of all-purpose flour and sprinkle it over the seasoned chicken breasts, flipping them to ensure they’re evenly coated. This step creates a lovely golden crust when you sear them, so don’t skip it! The flour will help absorb some of the moisture and bring that delightful texture you’re looking for in your Marry Me Chicken.
Sear the chicken to golden perfection
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, gently add your chicken breasts. Sear them for about 6-8 minutes on each side until they reach that irresistible golden brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F. Remember to let them rest off the heat for a few minutes – this helps retain their juiciness.
Sauté the aromatics
Now, in the same skillet, it’s time to build those aromatic layers. Add another tablespoon of vegetable oil along with the remaining tablespoon of butter. Toss in julienned onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions soften and turn golden brown. This step infuses the pan with warmth and flavor that will make your sauce shine.
Create the creamy sauce
To create the luscious sauce that Marry Me Chicken is famous for, add the Italian herbs (your favorite blend works wonders here!) and deglaze the pan with chicken broth. As you whisk the bits off the bottom, let it come to a gentle simmer. Now, pour in the room temperature heavy cream along with diced sun-dried tomatoes and whisk until combined. Let this simmer gently while you stir occasionally; the sauce will start to thicken, creating that perfect hearty companion for your chicken.
Combine and finish the dish
Finally, for the grand finale, whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, stirring until the cheese melts into that beautiful sauce. Return the chicken breasts to the pan, spooning the creamy mixture over them. If you're feeling adventurous, serve this over cooked rigatoni for a complete meal!
And there you have it – a beautifully crafted Marry Me Chicken, ready to impress. Get ready for your loved ones to fall head over heels for this dish!
Variations on Marry Me Chicken
Transform your Marry Me Chicken experience with these delightful variations that add their own unique twist to this classic dish. Whether you’re feeling adventurous or looking to impress, these ideas will elevate your weeknight dinner to something truly special.
Pesto Marry Me Chicken
For a burst of fresh flavor, swap out the sun-dried tomatoes for pesto. Just stir in about ¼ cup of your favorite store-bought or homemade pesto to the creamy sauce. This gives the dish a fragrant herbaceous note that pairs beautifully with the chicken. Serve it over zucchini noodles or whole wheat pasta for a lightened-up version.
Lemon Herb Marry Me Chicken
If you love a zesty kick, try lemon herb Marry Me Chicken. Simply add the juice and zest of one lemon to the sauce alongside the garlic. Incorporate herbs like thyme or dill for a refreshing and bright taste. This variation is fantastic served with a side of steamed asparagus or a crisp salad for that perfect balance.
These twists are not just easy; they're also a fantastic way to keep things exciting in the kitchen. Give them a shot for your next date night or family dinner!
Cooking tips and notes for Marry Me Chicken
Tips for tender chicken
To ensure your Marry Me Chicken is as tender as possible, start by using chicken breasts that are pounded to about ½ inch thickness. This step not only helps them cook evenly but also prevents them from drying out. For even more flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
Notes on sauce consistency
Achieving the perfect sauce consistency is key for this dish. As the sauce simmers after adding the heavy cream, keep an eye on it so it reduces to a luscious, gravy-like texture. If the sauce seems too thick, whisk in a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. On the other hand, if it's too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken. The right consistency will make your Marry Me Chicken truly irresistible!
For more cooking tips, check out Serious Eats on sauce-making techniques!
Serving Suggestions for Marry Me Chicken
Perfect Sides to Accompany the Dish
Complement your Marry Me Chicken with delightful sides that enhance its rich flavors. Consider pairing it with:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, they soak up the luscious sauce beautifully.
- Steamed Asparagus: A fresh, vibrant option that adds crunch and color to your plate.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted until golden, they provide a nutty contrast that balances the creaminess.
- Simple Side Salad: Toss mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing side that cuts through the richness.
Beverage Alternatives to Enhance the Meal
While Marry Me Chicken is often paired with wine, there are plenty of delicious non-alcoholic options:
- Sparkling Water with Citrus: The effervescence and zesty flavors elevate your dining experience.
- Herbal Iced Tea: A chilled mint or lemon verbena tea refreshes your palate between bites.
- Homemade Lemonade: A sweet and tart option that perfectly complements the dish's savory notes.
These suggestions not only heighten the flavors of your meal but also help create an unforgettable dining experience!
Time Breakdown for Marry Me Chicken
Preparation Time
In just 10 minutes, you can have your ingredients prepped and ready to go. It's the perfect opportunity to gather those flavorful components while you sip some herbal tea or kick back with your favorite music.
Cooking Time
The cooking process takes about 30 minutes. During this time, your kitchen will be filled with mouth-watering aromas as the chicken browns and the creamy sauce comes together.
Total Time
All in all, you're looking at a total of 40 minutes from start to finish for this delicious Marry Me Chicken. It's an impressive dish that feels like a labor of love, but it's quite manageable for a busy weeknight.
If you're interested in making this dish even faster, consider prepping the ingredients the night before. This way, you'll save time when you're ready to cook. Happy cooking!
For inspiration on other quick weeknight meals, check out these ideas.
Nutritional Facts for Marry Me Chicken
Calories
Each serving of Marry Me Chicken has approximately 550 calories, making it a satisfying choice for a hearty meal. While it’s a bit indulgent, remember that moderation is key!
Protein
This dish is packed with 42 grams of protein, thanks to the chicken and cheesy goodness. Protein is essential for muscle growth and recovery, making it a great post-workout option.
Total Fat
With around 30 grams of total fat, including healthy fats from the cream and oil, Marry Me Chicken offers a rich flavor profile. It’s perfect for a treat night, but consider pairing it with fresh veggies for a balanced plate.
For more nutrition tips, you can check out sites like Healthline or Nutrition.gov for helpful dietary guidance. Enjoy your cooking!
FAQs about Marry Me Chicken
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! While this Marry Me Chicken recipe shines with chicken breasts, you can easily swap in turkey or even beef for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly, as chicken cooks faster than thicker cuts of beef.
How do I store leftovers?
To keep your Marry Me Chicken fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze it for up to a month. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What are some good side dishes to serve with it?
This dish pairs beautifully with various sides! Consider serving it with:
- Garlic bread to soak up that creamy sauce.
- A light arugula salad for a fresh crunch.
- Steamed asparagus drizzled in lemon for a bright complement.
Finding the right side can elevate your meal and make it even more memorable! For more side dish ideas, check out this helpful resource.
Conclusion on Marry Me Chicken
Your kitchen will buzz with excitement as you master this Marry Me Chicken recipe. It’s not just delicious; it’s a go-to when you're short on time but still want to impress. The creamy sauce, infused with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs, ensures that you’ll be making it time and again!
Why You'll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe
- Simplicity: With just 10 minutes of prep and a total of 30 minutes cook time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatility: Pair it with rigatoni, serve it over rice, or enjoy it with crusty bread—the options are endless!
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan creates a rich, satisfying dish that feels gourmet without the hassle.
- Affordability: At only $3.08 per serving, you can indulge without breaking the bank.
If you want to take your culinary skills up a notch, check out more about meal prepping here or explore more affordable dinner ideas on Budget Bytes. Enjoy creating and serving this delightful dish—you'll be glad you did!
Marry Me Chicken
Equipment
- skillet
- freezer bag
- whisk
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 pieces chicken breasts
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.125 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
Cooking Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon vegetable oil divided
- 2 tablespoon butter divided
- 0.5 cup onion julienned
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1.5 teaspoon Italian herb blend
- 0.5 tablespoon fresh parsley minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream room temperature
- 0.25 cup sun-dried tomatoes diced
- 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil torn
- 0.5 box rigatoni cooked
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Place the chicken into a heavy-duty freezer bag or between two sheets of plastic wrap. Tenderize the chicken, pounding it thin until it’s about ½ inch thick.
- Rub all sides of the chicken with salt and pepper and then sprinkle with the flour until completely covered.
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet on medium heat and brown chicken on both sides for 6-8 minutes. Once the internal temperature reaches 165℉, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest.
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil to the pan, plus 1 tablespoon butter, sliced onions, and minced garlic. Sauté until onions are softening and turning golden brown.
- Add all herbs (except fresh basil) and deglaze the pan with chicken broth, whisking up all of the bits from the bottom of the pan. Turn heat to medium-low and let it come to a gentle simmer.
- Add heavy cream and sun-dried tomatoes, whisking to combine. Let it simmer on medium-low heat, whisking occasionally until the sauce reduces to a gravy-like consistency.
- Then, add grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Whisk to combine. You’ll notice the sauce will really begin to thicken with the addition of the cheese. Once the cheese is melted, just a minute later, turn off the heat.
- Return cooked chicken breasts to the hot pan, spooning the sauce over the breasts. Serve over the cooked pasta!
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