This Easy Marry Me Chicken is a crowd-pleaser! Juicy chicken breasts smothered in a rich, creamy sauce with a hint of garlic will have everyone asking for seconds.
Honestly, I had to double the recipe because my family couldn’t resist! Serve it with rice or pasta, and watch it disappear faster than a magician’s rabbit! 🐰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep this dish simple and quick. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are also a good substitute and will provide more moisture.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a burst of flavor. If you can’t find them, consider using roasted red peppers for a different but tasty option.
Heavy Cream: The creamy sauce hinges on heavy cream for richness. If you’re looking for a lighter version, try using half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative, though it may alter the consistency a bit.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor to the sauce. Grated Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can be good substitutes, especially for a vegan option.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Chicken Breasts Every Time?
Cooking chicken breasts can be tricky. To get them just right, it’s crucial to start with even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly. Here’s how:
- Pound the chicken breasts to about 1 inch thick. A rolling pin or meat mallet works well.
- Season before cooking to enhance flavor. Salt, pepper, and paprika give a lovely taste.
- Use medium-high heat in the skillet for a nice golden crust, which locks in moisture. Aim for 5-7 minutes per side.
Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer — it should read 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part. Letting it rest for a few minutes after cooking helps keep it juicy!
Easy Marry Me Chicken Recipe With Creamy Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and about 15-20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need around 30-35 minutes to whip up this delicious Marry Me Chicken, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly, so you won’t have dry spots. After pounding, season both sides of the chicken with salt, black pepper, and paprika for extra flavor.
2. Cooking the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Making the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it! Then, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for 1-2 minutes to allow their flavor to infuse into the oil.
4. Combining Everything:
Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens!
5. Thickening the Sauce:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the optional crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Let the sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
6. Finishing Touches:
Return the chicken breasts back to the skillet, spooning the delicious sauce over the top. Cook for another 2 minutes to heat it through and let the flavors meld together beautifully.
7. Serving:
Finally, garnish your Marry Me Chicken with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Pair it with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta, and enjoy!
This creamy, savory dish is sure to impress everyone at the table!
FAQ for Easy Marry Me Chicken Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can thaw it safely overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour for thickness. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream or cashew cream will work well, but the flavor may vary slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can enhance the dish’s flavor and nutrition. Simply sauté them along with the garlic before adding the cream and broth.
