Marry Me Chicken

Oh, how thrilled I am to share this recipe with you today! “Marry Me Chicken” has become a cherished dish in my home, and for good reason. The tale behind its enchanting name is as delightful as the dish itself: it’s rumored that anyone who tastes it will immediately fall in love, or at least feel compelled to pop the question! So, whether you’re looking to impress a special someone or just want to spice up your dinner routine, this dish promises enchantment at first bite.

Introduction

Marry Me Chicken is the perfect blend of savory and creamy, packed with flavors that marry (pun intended!) together beautifully. This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s a heartfelt way to show your love through food. As I’ve often said, cooking is like love; it should be entered into with abandon or not at all. So, let’s dive into this love affair with gusto!

Ingredients

To prepare Marry Me Chicken, you’ll need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Additional basil or parsley, for garnishing

How to Make Marry Me Chicken

1. Preparation: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear until golden and no longer pink in the middle, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. Stir in the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
4. Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the breasts. Simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly heated and the flavors meld.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped basil over the top just before serving. Garnish with additional basil or parsley if desired.

Helpful Tips

• Searing is Key: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken to achieve a golden, crispy exterior that locks in juices.
• Simmer Gently: Let the sauce thicken over a gentle simmer to prevent the dairy from separating and to enhance the flavors.

Substitutions/Variations

• Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
• Add Veggies: Spinach or arugula can be added in the last few minutes of cooking for an extra pop of green.
• Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses such as Asiago or Pecorino for a new twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use thighs instead of breasts?
   • Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well and add even more flavor.
2. What can I serve with Marry Me Chicken?
   • This dish pairs wonderfully with a light, fluffy rice pilaf, steamed vegetables, or a crisp salad.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of broth if the sauce needs thinning.

More Relevant Recipes

If you loved this, you might also enjoy:

• Air Fryer Steak Bites
• Classic American Goulash

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