As the summer heat fades into the cool embrace of fall, my cravings shift towards heartwarming meals that feel like a cozy hug. That’s when I discovered the magic of Marry Me Chicken in Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce – a dish that’s not only bursting with flavor but incredibly simple to whip up. I stumbled upon this recipe during a weekend dinner gathering when I was racing against the clock, and it transformed my kitchen into a love-filled experience that left everyone raving.
Imagine savoring tender chicken breasts, perfectly seared and bathed in a velvety, creamy sauce adorned with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs. This dish has an uncanny ability to impress, making it a go-to for date nights or casual family dinners alike. With minimal prep and the promise of a beautiful presentation, Marry Me Chicken quickly became a staple at my table. Are you ready to bring something delightfully indulgent into your home cooking routine? Let’s dive into this recipe that may just win hearts!
Why is Marry Me Chicken so irresistible?
Irresistible Flavors: The sun-dried tomatoes combined with a creamy sauce create a burst of rich taste that elevates any ordinary meal.
Easy Preparation: With just 45 minutes from prep to table, this dish is perfect for busy nights when you still want something special.
Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs make for a stunning plate that’s sure to impress guests.
Versatile Pairing: Serve it with pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal that’s tailored to your preferences.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a family gathering, this chicken dish will steal the show. Give it a try and discover why it’s a favorite!
Marry Me Chicken Ingredients
Unlock the secret to this delightful dish!
For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – the star of the dish that absorbs all the amazing flavors.
• Salt – to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken.
• Black pepper – for a hint of spice that balances the creaminess.
For the Sauce
• Olive oil – a healthy fat that helps in searing the chicken to perfection.
• Minced garlic – brings an aromatic punch that elevates the entire dish.
• Low-sodium chicken broth – ensures a rich base without overwhelming saltiness.
• Heavy cream – creates the luxurious texture of the sauce that’s simply irresistible.
• Grated fresh parmesan cheese – adds a nutty flavor that melds wonderfully with cream.
• Sun-dried tomatoes – packed in oil for added richness and a pop of color.
• Dried oregano – introduces a subtle earthiness that complements the dish beautifully.
• Crushed red pepper flakes – a delightful kick to awaken your taste buds.
Optional Garnishes
• Chiffonaded fresh basil – adds a fresh, aromatic touch that enhances flavor.
• Grated fresh parmesan cheese – for an extra cheesy finish that makes this dish even more irresistible.
This Marry Me Chicken will surely create a moment to remember!
How to Make Marry Me Chicken
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Prepare the Chicken: Place chicken breasts on a cutting board. Trim and pound them to an even thickness for consistent cooking. Pat dry and season with salt and black pepper generously on both sides.
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Sear the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once shimmering, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they’re lightly golden. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F while you prepare the sauce. This ensures a perfect bake for your chicken.
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Sauté Garlic: Return the skillet to the stovetop and reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant, about 30 to 60 seconds. Watch it closely to avoid burning.
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Combine the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, gently scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Remove from heat and let cool for 2 to 3 minutes. Then whisk in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
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Add Flavor: Return the skillet to medium-low heat and stir in sun-dried tomatoes, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Allow the sauce to slowly simmer to combine the flavors beautifully.
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Coat the Chicken: Return the seared chicken to the skillet, making sure to coat all sides in the luscious sauce. If using a meat thermometer, insert it into the chicken now.
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Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 13 minutes. Check the internal temperature until it reaches 160°F ensuring perfectly cooked chicken.
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Rest and Serve: Carefully remove the skillet from the oven, spooning extra sauce over the chicken. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Optional: Garnish with chiffonaded basil and additional grated parmesan for a beautiful finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Marry Me Chicken Variations
Customize this delightful dish to suit your tastes and dietary needs!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a luscious, dairy-free sauce.
You’ll still enjoy a creamy texture without the dairy, giving it an exotic twist. -
Spicy Kick: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or toss in diced jalapeños for an exciting heat that will make your taste buds dance.
A hint of fire balances beautifully with the creamy sauce for those who crave something with a little zest. -
Vegetable Boost: Stir in steamed spinach or sun-dried artichokes to bring extra color and nutrition to the plate.
This makes your dish more hearty while still keeping all the classic flavors intact. -
Pasta Lovers: Serve the chicken over a bed of al dente pasta instead of directly on a plate for a comforting, all-in-one meal.
The sauce clings to the noodles, creating a delicious symphony of flavors. -
Herb Infusion: Swap dried oregano for fresh thyme or dill to impart a refreshing twist that brightens the rich sauce.
These herbs can elevate the dish and offer a lovely fragrant aroma. -
Asian-Inspired: Incorporate soy sauce and sesame oil into the cream sauce for an unexpected Asian flair that would enchant any palate.
Serve it with jasmine rice for a fusion meal that feels both familiar and exotic. -
Nutty Addition: Mix in toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a delightful crunch and added richness.
These sound simple, yet they create a beautiful textural contrast to the creamy sauce. -
Citrus Zest: Add a splash of lemon or lime juice to the sauce before serving for a zesty brightness that cuts through the creaminess.
A bright citrus note can transform the entire dish into something refreshing and invigorating.
Make Ahead Options
These Marry Me Chicken in Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the chicken and sear it up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen. Simply season and sear the chicken, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can make the sauce ahead by combining the garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese, refrigerating it separately. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the sauce in a skillet, add the sun-dried tomatoes and oregano, and finish cooking the chicken in the oven. This way, you’ll have a delectable meal with all the flavors intact, making weeknight dinners a breeze!
How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Marry Me Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cooled down before sealing to retain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze Marry Me Chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a container to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce and bring back that creamy texture.
Leftover Options: Transform any leftovers into a delicious pasta dish by sautéing with your favorite noodles and adding some fresh herbs for an elevated meal!
What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken?
Create a memorable meal that embraces warmth and flavor with delightful pairings that elevate every bite.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture complements the luscious sauce, soaking up every drop and enhancing the dish’s richness.
- Garlic Bread: A golden, crispy delight perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce, adding a satisfying crunch to your meal.
- Seasonal Roasted Vegetables: Bright, roasted veggies bring fresh, earthy notes, balancing the rich flavors of the chicken beautifully.
- Simple Arugula Salad: The peppery greens provide a refreshing contrast, lightening the meal while adding a touch of vibrancy.
- Pasta Primavera: Tossed in olive oil with seasonal veggies, this dish pairs perfectly as a hearty side, complementing the creamy sauce.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the richness, elevating the overall dining experience with its bright acidity.
- Lemon Sorbet: End your meal on a light note; the refreshing citrus cleanse enhances every flavor on your palate.
Expert Tips for Marry Me Chicken
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Pounding Chicken: Ensure even cooking by pounding chicken to uniform thickness. This avoids undercooked or overcooked pieces in your Marry Me Chicken.
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Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes and fresh Parmesan cheese. They enhance the flavor and elevate your dish, making it restaurant-worthy.
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Monitor Garlic: Keep a close eye on the minced garlic while sautéing; it can burn quickly, resulting in an undesirable bitter taste in your sauce.
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Simmer Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer gently to let flavors meld. Rushing this step may leave your Marry Me Chicken lacking depth in flavor.
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Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 160°F. This prevents overcooking, keeping the chicken juicy and delicious.
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Resting Time: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps redistribute juices for a tender and flavorful bite.
Marry Me Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Marry Me Chicken?
For this recipe, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal as they cook evenly and absorb the delicious flavors of the sun-dried tomato cream sauce. It’s important to choose fresh chicken with a bright pink hue and no dark spots for the best taste.
How should I store leftovers of Marry Me Chicken?
Store leftover Marry Me Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing. This will help maintain its freshness and flavor for your next meal!
Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze Marry Me Chicken. For best results, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. It’ll stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out too thick, simply add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream while reheating. Stir gently until you achieve your desired consistency. This will help bring the creamy texture back to life without losing flavor!
Is Marry Me Chicken suitable for those with allergies?
Always make sure to check for allergies with your guests. This recipe contains dairy from the heavy cream and parmesan cheese. For a dairy-free version, consider using alternatives such as coconut cream or cashew cream, and omit the cheese, enhancing the flavor with nutritional yeast instead.
Marry Me Chicken in Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Chicken: Place chicken breasts on a cutting board. Trim and pound them to an even thickness for consistent cooking. Pat dry and season with salt and black pepper generously on both sides.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once shimmering, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they’re lightly golden. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F while you prepare the sauce.
- Sauté Garlic: Return the skillet to the stovetop and reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant, about 30 to 60 seconds. Watch it closely to avoid burning.
- Combine the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, gently scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Remove from heat and let cool for 2 to 3 minutes. Then whisk in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Add Flavor: Return the skillet to medium-low heat and stir in sun-dried tomatoes, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Allow the sauce to slowly simmer to combine the flavors beautifully.
- Coat the Chicken: Return the seared chicken to the skillet, making sure to coat all sides in the luscious sauce.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 13 minutes until the chicken reaches 160°F.
- Rest and Serve: Carefully remove the skillet from the oven, spooning extra sauce over the chicken. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Optional: Garnish with chiffonaded basil and additional grated parmesan for a beautiful finish.