How to Make Marry Me Chicken: Ingredients, Tips, and Variations
Marry Me Chicken is a delightful dish that has captured the hearts and palates of many, earning its charming name from the notion that it’s so delicious, that it might just inspire a marriage proposal. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, creating a meal that’s both elegant and comforting. In this article, we’ll explore the essential ingredients, step-by-step preparation, helpful tips, and variations to suit different dietary preferences.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
To prepare Marry Me Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless Marry Me Chicken breasts
- Salt and Pepper: For seasoning
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons, for dredging
- Unsalted Butter: 3 tablespoons
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Sun-dried tomatoes: ½ cup, chopped
- Marry Me Chicken Broth: 1 cup
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, freshly grated
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon
- Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Fresh Basil or Parsley: Chopped, for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
– Season the Marry Me Chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Dredge each piece lightly in flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Sear the Marry Me Chicken :
– In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Add the Marry Me Chicken breasts and sear until golden brown, approximately 4-5 minutes per side. They do not need to be fully cooked at this stage.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for an additional minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Reduce the heat to low, then add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the sauce is well combined and slightly thickened.
4. Combine and Simmer:
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
- Spoon the sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Let the dish simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened to your liking.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley over the top before serving.
- Pair with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to complement the creamy sauce.
Tips for Success
Chicken Thickness: If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, consider slicing them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This ensures even cooking and allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more effectively.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Opt for sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for a richer flavor. Be sure to drain and pat them dry before chopping.
- Sauce Consistency: If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce.
- Herb Substitutions: Fresh herbs can be used in place of dried ones. Use three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
Variations
Protein Alternatives: Swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option. Ensure they are cooked through by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like cauliflower steaks or portobello mushrooms. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are tender.
- Dairy-Free Version: Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese to accommodate dairy-free diets.
- Spice Level: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
Conclusion
Marry Me Chicken” is a versatile and flavorful dish that’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a special meal at home. Its creamy, savory sauce paired with tender chicken makes it a standout recipe in any collection. By following this guide, you can create a memorable dining experience that will delight anyone who tries it.
