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

If you’re looking for a dish that will make everyone at the dinner table swoon, then you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! This Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce) is not just any ordinary chicken dish; it’s a delightful combination of juicy chicken breasts enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce bursting with flavors. The sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil add a touch of elegance that makes this recipe perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings.

What I love most about this dish is its comforting flavor and the ease of preparation. You can whip it up in no time, making it an ideal choice when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you serve this to your loved ones, they’ll be asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in under an hour.
• Family Favorite: The creamy sauce and tender chicken are sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
• Versatile Ingredients: You likely already have most of these ingredients at home, making it a convenient option for last-minute dinners.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this dish ahead of time and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve!
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors from the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil make this dish look as stunning as it tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, perfect for creating a delicious meal without any fuss. Gather these items, and you’ll be on your way to making one of the best chicken dishes ever!

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 (see Notes)
• ½ cup heavy cream (at room temperature)
• ½ cup grated fresh parmesan cheese (at room temperature, see Notes)
• 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)
• chiffonaded fresh basil
• grated fresh parmesan cheese

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Whether you want to switch things up or accommodate different tastes, here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey cutlets or tofu for a lighter twist on this classic dish.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale during cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Change up the cheese: If you’re not a fan of parmesan, mozzarella or goat cheese can add a delightful flavor to the sauce.
• Make it spicy: Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes for those who love a little heat!

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

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces. Searing them creates that beautiful golden crust which locks in moisture and enhances flavor. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown but not fully cooked through.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds. This step is crucial because it brings out all those lovely garlic flavors. Pour in low-sodium chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan; these bits add depth to our sauce.

Step 3: Make It Creamy

Lower the heat slightly before adding heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese into the skillet. Stir continuously until everything is well combined. This creamy mixture is what makes Marry Me Chicken so irresistible! Don’t forget to add your sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes at this stage.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return your seared chicken back into the skillet with that luscious sauce. Allow everything to simmer together for about 10-15 minutes until your chicken is cooked through and has absorbed all those fantastic flavors. This part is essential as it ensures that every bite is infused with creamy goodness.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Once cooked, sprinkle chiffonaded fresh basil over your dish along with extra grated parmesan cheese if desired. This final touch isn’t just for looks—it adds freshness that brightens up all those rich flavors! Serve warm over rice or pasta, or enjoy it as-is for a delightful low-carb meal.

Now you’re ready to experience one of my favorite meals! Enjoy every bite of this Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce), knowing it’s not just food—it’s love on a plate!

Pro Tips for Making Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)

Making the perfect Marry Me Chicken is all about the little details that bring out the best flavors. Here are some tips to help you create this delightful dish with ease!

• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Proper seasoning enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and ensures every bite is delicious.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing your heavy cream and parmesan cheese to room temperature before cooking helps them blend smoothly into the sauce, creating a creamy consistency without clumps.
• Sear the Chicken: For that irresistible golden crust, make sure to sear your chicken in hot oil before adding any liquid. This adds depth of flavor and locks in moisture.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of crushed red pepper flakes based on your heat preference. A little kick can elevate the dish, but it’s all about what makes your taste buds happy!
• Let It Rest: After cooking, allow your chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain juices, making each bite tender and flavorful.

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

Presenting your Marry Me Chicken beautifully can turn an ordinary meal into something truly special. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience!

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Sprigs: Adding fresh basil sprigs on top not only looks appealing but also enhances that lovely herbal aroma.
• Extra Parmesan Cheese: A light sprinkle of additional grated parmesan just before serving can give an extra touch of richness and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that pairs perfectly with the rich sun-dried tomato cream sauce.
• Steamed Asparagus: Crisp-tender asparagus adds a refreshing crunch and bright color, balancing out the richness of the chicken.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a healthy contrast while complementing the flavors of the dish nicely.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables brings vibrant colors to your plate and adds a delightful sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Marry Me Chicken will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any dinner table! Enjoy this culinary love affair with family or friends – it’s sure to impress!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce) recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance and store it for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Ensure the dish is completely cooled before freezing.
• Portion the chicken with sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Heat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave at medium power until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I use a different type of cheese for Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)?

Yes! While parmesan adds a wonderful flavor, you can substitute it with mozzarella or even a dairy-free cheese alternative if desired. Just keep in mind that it may alter the taste and texture slightly.

How do I make Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce) spicy?

For an extra kick, simply add more crushed red pepper flakes to taste. You can also consider incorporating diced jalapeños or using spicy sun-dried tomatoes for an added layer of heat.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Absolutely! You can chop fresh tomatoes and sauté them alongside the garlic. However, be aware that you may need to cook them down longer to achieve a similar depth of flavor as sun-dried tomatoes.

What side dishes pair well with Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)?

This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables. A simple green salad or garlic bread also makes for excellent sides!

How long does it take to prepare Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)?

The total time for this recipe is about 45 minutes, including preparation and cooking. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with rich flavors that will surely impress your loved ones. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just treating yourself on a weeknight, this dish has all the cozy vibes you need. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your thoughts on how it turned out!