Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)

When it comes to chicken dishes, Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce) is the ultimate crowd-pleaser! This dish combines juicy, tender chicken breasts with an incredible parmesan cream sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil. Perfect for date night or family gatherings, this recipe will impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, this meal stands out for its ease and deliciousness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan creates a creamy sauce that elevates the humble chicken breast.
• Versatile Dish: This recipe pairs well with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad, making it perfect for any occasion.
• Comfort Food: Ideal for cozy evenings at home or special celebrations, it brings warmth and satisfaction to every plate.
• One Skillet Wonder: Easy cleanup is guaranteed as everything cooks in one skillet!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather all necessary tools. This will ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows for even cooking and browning of the chicken.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes prep work easier when chopping ingredients like garlic and basil.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• salt (to taste)
• freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or other neutral oil)
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• ¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth (see Notes)
• ½ cup heavy cream (at room temperature)
• ½ cup grated fresh parmesan cheese (at room temperature, see Notes)

Additional Flavorings

• 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)

To Finish

• 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

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and freshly cracked black pepper on both sides.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5–7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Create the Cream Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in low-sodium chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
3. Stir in heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Add sun-dried tomatoes, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
2. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, cover them with sauce, and let simmer for about 10 minutes on low heat.

Step 4: Serve

1. Once everything is heated through, sprinkle with chiffonaded fresh basil and extra grated parmesan cheese before serving.
2. Enjoy your delicious Marry Me Chicken with your favorite side dishes!

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)

Serving Marry Me Chicken is an opportunity to impress your family or guests with a comforting meal. This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil Garnish: Sprinkle fresh basil on top of the chicken for a burst of color and flavor.
• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley adds freshness and enhances the presentation.

Over Pasta

• Pasta of Choice: Serve the chicken over fettuccine or spaghetti to soak up the delicious sun-dried tomato cream sauce.
• Orzo: This small pasta complements the dish nicely, offering a unique texture.

With Rice

• Fluffy White Rice: A classic choice, rice absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Risotto: For a richer experience, serve it with a creamy risotto infused with parmesan.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Greens Salad: Serve the chicken sliced over a bed of fresh greens drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a light meal.
• Spinach Salad: Pair it with spinach and a citrus dressing to balance the richness of the dish.

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How to Perfect Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)

Perfecting Marry Me Chicken requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing heavy cream and parmesan cheese to room temperature helps them blend smoothly into the sauce.
• Sear Chicken Properly: Searing the chicken until golden brown adds depth of flavor and keeps it juicy.
• Adjust Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes according to your preference.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking keeps it tender and juicy before serving.
• Substitute Wisely: If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes in oil, rehydrate dry ones in warm water or broth for similar results.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)

Pairing side dishes with Marry Me Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement its rich flavors.

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce; use fresh garlic and butter for an irresistible side.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil add color and nutrition while balancing the richness.
3. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes pairs well, making for a comforting combination.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds fiber and complements the dish without overpowering it.
5. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers crunch and freshness alongside the creamy chicken.
6. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice provides a nice base without overshadowing the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce), it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect your dish.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken adequately can lead to bland flavors. Always use salt and pepper generously to enhance the taste.
• Using cold ingredients: Adding cold cream or cheese can cause the sauce to separate. Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth sauce.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to keep it juicy and tender.
• Not letting it rest: Serving the chicken immediately after cooking may result in lost juices. Letting it rest for a few minutes allows the flavors to meld and improves texture.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Low-quality sun-dried tomatoes can detract from flavor. Choose high-quality, oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce).

What is Marry Me Chicken?

Marry Me Chicken is a delicious chicken dish made with tender chicken breasts, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy parmesan sauce that’s sure to impress.

Can I use other types of chicken?

Yes! You can use thighs or even bone-in chicken pieces, but cooking times may vary.

How do I customize Marry Me Chicken?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce) is not only an irresistible dish but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients while enjoying its rich flavors. Give this recipe a try; you might just make it your go-to comfort food!

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