In the world of comforting and heartwarming dishes, Marry Me Chicken holds a special place. This dish is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a soulful experience.
The creamy Parmesan sauce, enriched with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs, coats the succulent chicken breasts perfectly.
Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner for two or a family gathering, this dish is sure to impress.
Follow this detailed step-by-step guide to prepare this delightful dish that will make anyone say “Yes” to seconds.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken Recipe
Ingredients:
To make the Marry Me Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts (you can also use chicken thighs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic and herb seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 teaspoon butter
- 1/3 cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk for a lighter version)
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the Chicken:
Begin by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic and herb seasoning, salt, and pepper. The seasoning adds a burst of flavor to the chicken, making it even more delicious.
Make sure the chicken breasts are of even thickness. If they are too thick, you can slice them in half horizontally to ensure they cook evenly.
Sauté the Chicken:
In a shallow Dutch oven or a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sauté the chicken until it develops a beautiful golden color on both sides.
This step is crucial as it locks in the flavors and gives the chicken a nice sear. Don’t worry about cooking the chicken all the way through at this stage; the goal is to achieve that lovely golden crust.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
Prepare the Base:
Add a small amount of the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes to the pot. This oil is infused with the rich flavors of the tomatoes, adding depth to the sauce. If your sun-dried tomatoes are not packed in oil, you can use extra olive oil.
Add the chopped garlic to the pot and sauté until fragrant. Garlic is the heart of this dish, and its aroma sets the tone for the creamy sauce.
Add the Butter:
Add a teaspoon of butter to the pot and let it melt. The butter adds a rich and creamy texture to the sauce, enhancing its overall flavor.
Incorporate the Cream:
Pour in 1/3 cup of heavy cream. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk. However, heavy cream provides a richer texture and flavor that’s hard to beat.
Combine with Chicken Stock:
Add 1 cup of chicken stock to the pot. The chicken stock adds depth to the sauce and helps in deglazing the pot, incorporating all the delicious bits stuck at the bottom.
Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and a few fresh basil leaves. The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy and sweet flavor, while the basil leaves impart a fresh and aromatic touch.
Step 3: Simmer the Chicken
Return the Chicken to the Pot:
Place the partially cooked chicken breasts back into the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce. This step allows the chicken to soak up the flavors of the sauce, making it tender and flavorful.
Simmer:
Partially cover the pot and let the chicken simmer for about 10 minutes. During this time, the chicken will cook through, and the flavors will meld together beautifully. Make sure not to overcook the chicken, especially if you’re using chicken breasts, as they can become tough and chewy.
Step 4: Finish the Dish
Add Parmesan Cheese:
Once the chicken is cooked, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the sauce. The Parmesan cheese melts into the sauce, adding a nutty and savory flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Taste and Adjust:
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. If it needs more salt or pepper, feel free to add it at this stage.
Serving Suggestions:
Marry Me Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few serving suggestions:
Pasta:
Serve the chicken over your favorite pasta, such as angel hair or fettuccine. The pasta soaks up the creamy sauce, making each bite a delightful experience.
Rice:
You can also serve the chicken with steamed rice. The rice acts as a perfect base to absorb the rich flavors of the sauce.
Mashed Potatoes:
For a hearty and comforting meal, serve the chicken over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. The creamy texture of the mashed potatoes complements the sauce beautifully.
Vegetables:
For a lighter option, you can serve the chicken with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables. Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus make excellent choices.
Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken
Choose the Right Chicken Cut: While chicken breast is great, don’t hesitate to use chicken thighs if you prefer. They’re often more forgiving and remain tender even if slightly overcooked.
Don’t Skimp on the Oil: Using the oil from sun-dried tomatoes adds a depth of flavor that regular olive oil can’t match.
Keep an Eye on Cooking Time: Especially with chicken breast, overcooking can lead to dry meat. Aim for a perfect simmer that keeps the chicken juicy and tender.
Customize the Creaminess: If you’re watching your calorie intake, coconut milk is a good substitute for heavy cream, but ensure it’s full-fat for that luscious texture.
Conclusion
Marry Me Chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings people together. Its rich and creamy sauce, combined with tender chicken breasts, creates a dish that’s comforting, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or your family, this dish is sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and let the flavors of Marry Me Chicken fill your kitchen and hearts with warmth and joy.
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