If you’re in search of a delightful and quick meal, look no further than this Easy Marry Me Chicken (30-Minute Recipe!). This dish promises not only to satisfy your taste buds but could also win over the heart of someone special.
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Why You’ll Love This Easy Marry Me Chicken (30-Minute Recipe!)
Easy Marry Me Chicken is a fantastic dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, creamy sauce that’s both comforting and indulgent. The addition of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil adds layers of flavor that are sure to impress. Plus, the recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
Easy Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Trim the chicken breasts and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and keep warm.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth, scraping the pan to deglaze. Stir in heavy cream, thyme, oregano, and chili flakes. Simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add Parmesan, basil, and sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce. Stir until combined, then return chicken to the skillet. Spoon sauce over chicken and simmer 1 minute to blend flavors. Serve hot.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!You’ll find it simple yet elegant, making it a wonderful option for intimate dinners or hearty family meals.
Ingredients for Easy Marry Me Chicken (30-Minute Recipe!)
To whip up this delicious recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 Boneless Chicken breasts
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- 2 cloves Garlic (grated)
- 3/4 cup Chicken broth
- 2/3 cup Heavy cream
- 1 tsp Dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp Dried oregano
- 1/3 tsp Chili flakes
- 1/3 cup Parmesan (grated)
- 1/4 cup Basil (fresh, chopped)
- 1/2 cup Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
Chicken
The star of this dish is the boneless chicken breast, which cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
Sauce
The sauce is a creamy delight made from heavy cream, chicken broth, and a touch of cheese. It’s rich, satisfying, and perfect for spooning over the chicken and any sides you choose.
Fresh Ingredients
Adding sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil provides a vibrant kick to the dish, elevating it from ordinary to extraordinary.
Ingredient Notes (substitutions, healthy swaps)
- Heavy Cream: To lighten up the recipe, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk.
- Parmesan: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Chicken Broth: For a lighter flavor, vegetable broth can work just as well.
- Sun-dried Tomatoes: If you prefer fresh tomatoes, feel free to substitute them, though the flavors will differ slightly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Chicken
Begin by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts. Season both sides with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 2 – Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it to keep warm.
Step 3 – Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat and add the grated garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then pour in the chicken broth and scrape any brown bits off the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, oregano, and chili flakes. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Add the grated Parmesan, chopped basil, and sun-dried tomatoes, mixing everything well.
Step 4 – Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Allow everything to cook together for another minute, letting the chicken absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: If your skillet isn’t large enough, sear the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking.
- You Can Use Thinner Chicken Breasts: Butterflying or pounding the chicken breasts can speed up cooking and ensure tenderness.
- Garnish: A sprinkle of extra fresh basil or grated Parmesan on top before serving can enhance the visual appeal.
- Add Vegetables: For a more nutritious meal, toss in some spinach or kale after adding the sauce to wilt them down.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a thinner sauce, feel free to add more chicken broth or reduce the heavy cream amount.
- Make It Spicy: Increase the chili flakes for an added kick, appealing to those who enjoy heat.
Flavor Variations
Change things up with these flavor variations:
- Lemon Marry Me Chicken: Add a splash of lemon juice and some lemon zest for a bright and zesty twist.
- Mushroom Marry Me Chicken: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with garlic for an earthy element.
- Pesto Marry Me Chicken: Mix a couple of tablespoons of basil pesto into the sauce for an herbaceous flavor boost.
- Gluten-Free Option: Ensure the broth and any cheese used are certified gluten-free for a gluten-sensitive audience.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with herbs like rosemary or sage for a different aromatic profile.
Serving Suggestions
Easy Marry Me Chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes, including:
- Pasta: Serve over fettuccine or spaghetti tossed in olive oil for a comforting meal.
- Rice: A side of jasmine or brown rice absorbs the sauce beautifully.
- Salad: A fresh side salad provides a crisp counterpoint to the rich chicken and sauce.
- Vegetables: Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables will round out your meal perfectly.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even more delicious when reheated. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions of the chicken and sauce for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 500 |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fat | 32g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Protein | 44g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
FAQ About Easy Marry Me Chicken (30-Minute Recipe!)
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
While this recipe is designed for boneless chicken breasts to keep cooking time down, you could use bone-in chicken. Just be aware that you’ll need to extend the cooking time, ensuring that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Easy Marry Me Chicken is perfect for meal prepping. Just reheat portions when ready to eat, and it’ll taste just as delicious.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply replace heavy cream with coconut milk or any non-dairy milk of your choice, and use a non-dairy cheese alternative for the Parmesan.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out thicker than desired, simply stir in a bit more chicken broth until you reach your preferred consistency.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in some sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini when making the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Marry Me Chicken (30-Minute Recipe!) is not just a meal but a testament to the idea that good food can bring people together. With a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that is sure to be a favorite in your household. Perfect for busy nights, meal prepping, or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy every delicious bite!