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This crowd-pleasing Marry Me Chicken layers juicy chicken breasts in a sun-dried tomato cream sauce with bursts of fresh basil and savory parmesan. The flavors come together in less than an hour, which makes it perfect for special occasions or transforming an ordinary weeknight into something memorable.
The first time I made this I was stunned by how quickly everyone asked for seconds. It has become my go-to whenever I need a meal that will impress loved ones but still fits into a busy evening.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: choose pieces of even thickness for even cooking
- Olive oil or neutral oil: for a golden sear and richness
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper: for seasoning and balance
- Garlic: adds aromatic depth and a savory backbone
- Low sodium chicken broth: creates a savory base without overwhelming saltiness
- Heavy cream: at room temperature for velvety texture and stability
- Fresh parmesan cheese: grated at home melts better and gives intense flavor avoid pre-grated
- Sun dried tomatoes: ideally packed in oil for a bold tangy burst the oil can add even more character
- Dried oregano: classic Italian flavor to complement the tomatoes
- Crushed red pepper flakes: to control the heat add more if you love a kick
- Fresh basil: for a final touch of color and freshness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare and Flatten Chicken:
- Pound boneless skinless chicken breasts on a cutting board until all pieces are the same size and thickness. This ensures even cooking so none dry out
- Season Chicken:
- Pat chicken breasts dry thoroughly with paper towels. Season each side generously with salt and cracked black pepper to help form a flavorful crust
- Sear Chicken:
- Heat a large oven safe skillet on medium high. Swirl with olive oil until shimmery then add chicken. Sear 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden in spots but not cooked through. Transfer to a plate reserving any juices and fat
- Sauté Aromatics:
- Reduce heat to medium low. Add minced garlic to the same pan and sauté for about 30 seconds just until fragrant. Stir constantly to prevent burning
- Deglaze with Broth:
- Pour in chicken broth while scraping up browned bits from the pan bottom. This enhances the flavor and lifts all the tasty caramelization from the seared chicken
- Incorporate Cream and Cheese:
- Move the pan off the heat to prevent curdling. Whisk in room temperature heavy cream until blended then add grated parmesan cheese whisking again until everything melts smoothly
- Build the Sauce:
- With the pan back on medium low sprinkle in sun dried tomatoes oregano and red pepper. Stir gently. Taste the sauce and adjust salt pepper or spices as needed
- Simmer and Coat Chicken:
- Bring sauce to a gentle simmer. Return chicken breasts and flip them to coat all sides well. This step helps lock in moisture and flavor
- Bake to Finish:
- Transfer skillet to a hot oven set at 375 Fahrenheit. Bake until chicken reaches an internal temp of 160 Fahrenheit typically 13 to 15 minutes. Let rest 5 minutes in the skillet so it finishes cooking and stays juicy
- Serve:
- Plate the chicken with a spoonful of sauce over the top. Garnish with ribbons of fresh basil and extra parmesan as desired
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The sun dried tomatoes truly make this dish shine. I remember the first time my daughter helped me chiffonade basil for the topping. She was so proud to add that emerald green garnish and we still laugh about our early attempts at those perfect ribbons.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently over low on the stove or in the microwave covered to prevent drying out. The sauce can separate a little after chilling but whisking while reheating brings it back together.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap boneless chicken thighs for even juicier results and a richer flavor. For dairy free needs use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor in place of parmesan. Craving more vegetables Toss in fresh spinach or chopped artichoke hearts along with tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Pair Marry Me Chicken with garlic mashed potatoes roasted asparagus or crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce. It also shines with pasta or cauliflower rice for a lighter alternative. This dish is wonderful for holiday meals but works for casual gatherings too.
Cultural Context
Chicken simmered with cream and tomatoes is a classic Italian American concept reminiscent of dishes served in family style restaurants. The playful name Marry Me Chicken comes from the sauce being so delicious it could inspire a proposal. For me it is about creating lasting memories around the dinner table.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do you keep the chicken juicy during baking?
Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness and sear quickly to seal in juices. Resting the chicken after baking helps it stay moist.
- → Can I substitute chicken thighs for breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless thighs work well. Adjust bake time as thighs may take slightly longer to reach doneness.
- → How can I thicken the sauce if desired?
Increase the parmesan, or whisk in a little cream cheese, cornstarch, or flour once the chicken is removed.
- → What's the best way to chiffonade fresh basil?
Stack basil leaves, roll them, and slice across the roll to create thin ribbons for garnish.
- → Are dry-packed or oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes better?
Oil-packed tomatoes add extra richness and blend well into the sauce, but both types can be used.
- → What sides pair well with this chicken?
Serve with roasted potatoes, asparagus, or a simple green salad to balance the creamy sauce.