When it comes to chicken dishes, Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce) is the ultimate crowd-pleaser! This dish combines juicy, tender chicken breasts with an incredible parmesan cream sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil. Perfect for date nights, family dinners, or special occasions, this recipe will impress everyone at your table. The rich flavors and creamy texture make it a standout choice that’s both comforting and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan cream sauce creates a rich flavor that elevates the chicken.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a family gathering, this recipe fits right in.
- One Skillet Wonder: Cook everything in one pan, making cleanup a breeze while maximizing flavor.
- Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This dish is sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds!
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into creating your Marry Me Chicken, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- A large skillet
- A cutting board
- A sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A spatula or wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large Skillet: Ideal for cooking the chicken evenly and allowing the sauce to develop rich flavors.
- Sharp Knife: Ensures easy chopping of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for precise preparation.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- salt (to taste)
- freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or other neutral oil)
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- ¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth (see Notes)
- ½ cup heavy cream (at room temperature)
- ½ cup grated fresh parmesan cheese (at room temperature, see Notes)
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (preferably packed in oil)
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (more or less to taste)
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (more or less to taste)
Garnish
- chiffonaded fresh basil
- grated fresh parmesan cheese
How to Make Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and freshly cracked black pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5–7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Create the Cream Sauce
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in low-sodium chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Add grated parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
- Mix in sun-dried tomatoes, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Return the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet. Simmer for another 5–10 minutes until everything is heated through.
Step 4: Serve
- Garnish with chiffonaded fresh basil and additional grated parmesan cheese before serving.
- Enjoy your Marry Me Chicken with pasta or crusty bread for a complete meal!
This delightful recipe will surely sweep you off your feet! Enjoy every bite of this delicious comfort food that brings joy to any table!
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)
Serving Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce) is a delightful experience that enhances its rich and creamy flavors. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes that complement its taste.
Over Rice
- Serve over fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the delicious cream sauce.
With Pasta
- Toss with your favorite pasta for a hearty meal; fettuccine or penne works wonderfully.
With Crusty Bread
- Offer slices of crusty bread to mop up every last drop of the creamy sauce.
On a Bed of Greens
- For a lighter option, serve atop fresh greens like spinach or arugula for a refreshing salad twist.
With Roasted Vegetables
- Pair with roasted seasonal vegetables for added color and nutrition on your plate.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Top with extra chiffonaded basil or parsley to enhance the dish’s presentation and flavor.
How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)
To achieve perfection with your Marry Me Chicken, follow these essential tips that elevate the dish to new heights.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring your heavy cream and parmesan cheese to room temperature before cooking. This helps them blend smoothly into the sauce.
Sear the Chicken Properly: Ensure the chicken breasts are well-seared on both sides. This not only locks in moisture but also adds depth of flavor.
Adjust Seasonings as Needed: Taste your sauce as it cooks. Feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes according to your preference.
Let It Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken tender.
Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)
Pairing side dishes with Marry Me Chicken can enhance your meal’s overall taste and presentation. Here are some great options:
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make an excellent base for this rich chicken dish.
Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers a crisp texture that balances the richness of the sauce perfectly.
Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice absorbs flavors well and serves as a great accompaniment.
Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with lemon dressing adds brightness and complements the creamy chicken nicely.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts add crunch and an earthy flavor that works well alongside this dish.
Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad dressed lightly allows for a fresh contrast to the creamy sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce) can be a delight, but it’s easy to make mistakes that affect the dish’s flavor and texture.
- Using cold ingredients: Make sure your heavy cream and parmesan cheese are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can cause the sauce to curdle.
- Overcooking the chicken: To keep the chicken juicy, cook it until just done. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season the chicken with salt and pepper before cooking. This enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Neglecting fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds brightness to the cream sauce. Always add it at the end of cooking for maximum flavor.
- Not using sun-dried tomatoes in oil: Using sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil instead of dry ones will give your sauce extra richness and depth.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)
- Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place chicken in a baking dish, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
- Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet. Stir occasionally until heated throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce) that can help you achieve the best results.
Can I use other types of chicken?
You can use thighs instead of breasts if you prefer dark meat. Adjust cooking time as needed since thighs may take longer to cook.
How do I make a dairy-free version of Marry Me Chicken?
To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and omit parmesan cheese or use nutritional yeast for flavor.
What side dishes pair well with Marry Me Chicken?
This delicious dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables. A fresh salad also complements its rich flavors nicely.
Can I prepare Marry Me Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken beforehand and prepare the sauce earlier in the day. Just combine them before serving.
Final Thoughts
Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce) is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy to any table. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or vegetables for an even more personalized touch!
Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)
Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce) is a show-stopping dish that effortlessly combines succulent chicken breasts with a creamy, rich sauce featuring sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan cheese. This Italian-inspired recipe is perfect for romantic dinners or family gatherings, offering an indulgent experience that will leave everyone at your table wanting more. With its simple ingredients and one-pan preparation, Marry Me Chicken not only saves you time but also delivers incredible flavor in every bite. Serve it over rice, pasta, or alongside crusty bread to truly savor the velvety sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- salt (to taste)
- freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- ¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- chiffonaded fresh basil
- additional grated fresh parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden brown on both sides (about 5–7 minutes per side), then set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the pan.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Mix in sun-dried tomatoes, return the chicken to the skillet, and simmer for an additional 5–10 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken with sauce (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
