Description
Marry Me Chicken is creamy, juicy, and full of flavor! It’s said that this chicken dinner is so good that if you cook it for your partner, he will propose to you! Yes, it’s THAT amazing! Funny name, but probably the best chicken recipe ever! I reaaaaally LOVE it!
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 2–3 pounds total)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably oil-packed for extra flavor)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Herbs & Spices:
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for a pop of color)
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese
Variations and Alternative Ingredients:
- Mushroom Addition: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor profile. Sauté them with the garlic before adding the chicken.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to bring heat to your dish. Adjust quantities based on your heat preference.
- Herb Infusion: Consider using fresh herbs instead of dried. 1 tablespoon of fresh basil and oregano can enhance the freshness of the dish.
- Leafy Greens: Instead of spinach, try using kale or Swiss chard for a different texture and flavor.
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. This will impart a slight sweetness to the dish.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure that chicken is at room temperature before cooking for even cooking.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.
Instructions
- Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This enhances the natural flavors and prepares the chicken for cooking. - Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, carefully place the chicken in the skillet. Sear each breast for about 5-7 minutes until a golden brown crust forms. Then, flip and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. - Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly. - Step 4: Incorporate the Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and sauté for another 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their flavor into the garlic. - Step 5: Create the Creamy Base
Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine all the ingredients. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. This will create a rich sauce that envelops the chicken. - Step 6: Bring Back the Chicken
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken to ensure they are well-coated. - Step 7: Simmer Together
Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let everything simmer for an extra 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This step ensures the chicken stays moist and absorbs the delicious sauce. - Step 8: Serve the Dish
Once finished, garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve Marry Me Chicken immediately with pasta, rice, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
Suitable Substitutions for Dietary Restrictions:
If you or your loved ones have dietary restrictions, there are effective ways to modify the recipe. For a dairy-free version, swap heavy cream with coconut milk or a nut-based cream. This change keeps the creaminess without the dairy. For gluten-free options, ensure the sun-dried tomatoes and any additional seasonings do not contain gluten. If you want a lower-carb version, consider replacing the pasta or rice commonly served on the side with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lighter meal.
- Prep Time: 10minutes
- Cook Time: 15minutes