When it comes to chicken dishes, Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce) is the ultimate crowd-pleaser! This recipe combines juicy, tender chicken breasts with a rich parmesan cream sauce, flavorful sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil. Perfect for date nights, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a touch of culinary magic, this dish stands out for its creamy texture and robust flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of parmesan cheese and sun-dried tomatoes creates an irresistible cream sauce that elevates the chicken.
- Versatile: Not only is this meal great on its own, but it pairs well with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad.
- One-Skillet Wonder: Enjoy easy cleanup with this simple one-skillet recipe—less time washing dishes means more time to savor your meal!
- Crowd-Pleasing: With its comforting flavors and appealing presentation, this dish is sure to impress family and friends.
Tools and Preparation
To make Marry Me Chicken, having the right tools on hand will streamline your cooking process. Here’s a look at essential equipment you’ll need.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good-quality skillet ensures even cooking and allows the sauce to develop flavors beautifully.
- Wooden Spoon: This tool is ideal for mixing ingredients without scratching your skillet’s surface.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your cream sauce.
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
- ½ cup heavy cream (at room temperature)
- ½ cup grated fresh parmesan cheese (at room temperature)
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (preferably packed in oil)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (more or less to taste)
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (more or less to taste)
Garnishes
- 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 generously with salt and black pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook until browned on both sides and cooked through, about 6–7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in low-sodium chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese. Mix well until melted and smooth.
Step 3: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Seasoning
Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon some sauce over each piece of chicken. Let cook for an additional 2–3 minutes so the chicken absorbs some flavor.
Step 5: Serve & Garnish
Remove from heat and garnish with chiffonaded fresh basil and additional grated parmesan cheese before serving warm.
Enjoy your delicious Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)!
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)
Serving Marry Me Chicken is an experience that elevates any meal. This dish not only tastes divine but also looks stunning on the plate, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.
With Pasta
- Toss cooked pasta, like fettuccine or penne, in the sun-dried tomato cream sauce for a delightful combination.
Over Rice
- Serve the chicken over fluffy white rice or brown rice to soak up the rich flavors of the sauce.
On a Bed of Greens
- Place the chicken atop a fresh salad with mixed greens. Drizzle some balsamic glaze for added flavor.
With Crusty Bread
- Pair with crusty bread to mop up the creamy sauce, providing a satisfying texture contrast.
As a Wrap
- Shred leftover chicken and wrap it in tortillas with cheese and fresh veggies for a quick lunch option.
With Mashed Potatoes
- Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes to complement the richness of the dish beautifully.
How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)
To achieve the best results with your Marry Me Chicken, follow these simple tips that enhance flavor and presentation.
Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your cream and cheese to room temperature helps them blend smoothly into the sauce.
Sear the chicken well: A good sear adds depth of flavor. Ensure your pan is hot before adding the chicken.
Adjust seasoning: Taste as you cook! Feel free to add more salt or spices based on your preference.
Add fresh basil at the end: To keep its vibrant color and flavor, add fresh basil just before serving.
Let it rest: Allow the chicken to rest after cooking. This keeps it juicy when you slice into it.
Garnish generously: A sprinkle of extra parmesan or fresh herbs can make your dish visually appealing.
Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)
Pairing side dishes with Marry Me Chicken enhances your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement this delicious main course.
Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up all that luscious cream sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide great texture and nutrition.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness that balances out the creamy dish.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing offers a healthy twist alongside rich flavors.
Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus brings a pop of color and pairs wonderfully with chicken.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sauce.
Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with sour cream or chives for added taste.
Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter option, serve zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil and garlic.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce) can be simple, but there are common mistakes to watch out for.
- Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold cream or cheese can cause the sauce to seize. Always bring these ingredients to room temperature before cooking.
- Overcooking the chicken: This can lead to dry chicken. Use a meat thermometer and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Neglecting seasoning: A lack of salt and pepper can make your dish bland. Season the chicken before cooking and adjust flavors in the sauce as needed.
- Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh basil elevates the dish’s flavor. Don’t omit it; add it right at the end for maximum freshness.
- Not letting it rest: Cutting into the chicken immediately can result in juices leaking out. Allow it to rest for a few minutes after cooking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)
- Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring frequently, until heated thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)?
Marry Me Chicken is a delicious and creamy chicken dish made with sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs that create a flavor explosion.
Can I use different types of chicken?
Yes! You can substitute boneless thighs or even use chicken tenders if you prefer. Adjust cooking time as necessary.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños to the sauce while cooking.
Can I make Marry Me Chicken without heavy cream?
Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version, though it may alter the flavor slightly.
Final Thoughts
Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce) is not just a hearty meal; it’s versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it by adding vegetables or swapping proteins. Try this recipe and impress your family or guests with its rich flavors!
Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce). This delightful dish features tender, juicy chicken breasts simmered in a luscious cream sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan cheese. Perfect for date nights or family gatherings, this one-skillet recipe is quick to prepare, taking only 45 minutes from start to finish. The rich flavors and creamy texture make it an impressive yet easy meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Pair it with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete dining experience. Experience culinary magic tonight with this irresistible chicken dish!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated fresh parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until browned and cooked through (6–7 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add chicken broth, bring to a simmer, then stir in heavy cream and parmesan until smooth.
- Mix in sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes; let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over each piece, and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 475
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 44g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
