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

If you’re looking for a dish that’s guaranteed to impress without a ton of fuss, you’ve found it! Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce) is the kind of recipe that makes everyone feel special. The combination of juicy chicken, creamy parmesan sauce, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a flavor profile that’s absolutely irresistible. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish brings warmth and joy to the table, making it one of my all-time favorites.

There’s nothing quite like serving up this comforting meal after a long day. It’s easy to whip together but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Your loved ones will be asking for seconds—and possibly even thirds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 45 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: The creamy sauce and tender chicken are sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
• Versatile Ingredients: You likely have most of these simple ingredients on hand, making it easy to prepare last-minute.
• One Skillet Wonder: Fewer dishes to wash means less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your meal together.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are not only simple but also wholesome! You’ll find everything you need to create an incredible meal right here.

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 Cream 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 super flexible! Feel free to make adjustments based on your preferences or what you have available.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes if you love a bit more heat.
• Coconut cream alternative: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a rich texture.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. This step is crucial because it enhances the flavor right from the start. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them until nicely browned on both sides. This will lock in moisture and give you that delicious golden color!

Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce

Once your chicken is beautifully browned and cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté it until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Next, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and scrape any delicious brown bits off the bottom of the pan. This adds tons of flavor to your sauce!

Step 3: Add Dairy Goodness

Lower the heat slightly and stir in heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese. Let this simmer gently while stirring until you have a smooth sauce. It’s important not to boil at this stage; we want our sauce creamy without curdling!

Step 4: Incorporate Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Add in your sun-dried tomatoes along with oregano and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine all those tasty flavors together! Return your chicken back into this glorious mix—you want each piece coated in that dreamy sauce.

Step 5: Finish with Freshness

Lastly, sprinkle chiffonaded fresh basil over everything. This adds a pop of freshness that brightens up the entire dish! Let everything simmer together for another minute or two before serving. Enjoy every bite of your Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)!

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

This recipe is a delight that can impress anyone, and these tips will help you make it even better!

• Choose the right chicken breasts: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts ensures that your dish cooks evenly and remains juicy. Look for fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor.

• Sear the chicken properly: Searing your chicken in olive oil until golden brown enhances the overall taste of the dish. This step adds depth and a beautiful color to your meal.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your heavy cream and parmesan cheese to room temperature before adding them to the sauce helps prevent curdling and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to tweak the salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to suit your palate. Everyone’s tastes are different, so making it personal can elevate your experience!

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking enables the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in an even more delightful meal.

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

Presenting this delicious dish beautifully will surely wow your family or guests! Here are some ideas on how to serve it up.

Garnishes

• Chiffonaded fresh basil: This adds a vibrant pop of color and fresh aroma that complements the richness of the cream sauce.
• Grated fresh parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated cheese just before serving enhances flavor and presentation.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding these on top gives an extra kick!

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic make an excellent base for soaking up that luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce.

• Steamed Asparagus: Bright green asparagus lightly steamed provides a crisp contrast and adds a healthy touch to your plate.

• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette offers a light and nutritious companion to this rich dish.

• Roasted Broccoli: Tossed with olive oil and garlic, roasted broccoli brings out its natural sweetness while providing a crunchy texture that balances the creaminess of the chicken.

With these serving suggestions, you will have a well-rounded meal that not only tastes incredible but also looks inviting on any table! Enjoy creating this unforgettable dining experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Marry Me Chicken in a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store your leftovers effectively:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to keep the sauce with the chicken to maintain its moisture and flavor.

Freezing

• To freeze, portion out the chicken and sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Note that while the texture may slightly change after thawing, the flavor will still be delicious!

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.
• Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, stirring gently.
• Alternatively, you can use a microwave; heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

What makes Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce) so special?

Marry Me Chicken is special because it’s an incredibly flavorful dish combining juicy chicken breasts with a rich cream sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil. It’s perfect for impressing loved ones yet simple enough for any weeknight dinner!

Can I use alternatives for cream in Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)?

Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. Just keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor profile.

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

This delightful dish takes about 45 minutes from start to finish, including prep time and cooking. It’s quick enough for a weekday meal yet elegant enough for special occasions!

Can I add vegetables to my Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in some spinach or zucchini during cooking. They will add color and nutrition while complementing the rich flavors of the dish.

What can I serve with Marry Me Chicken (In a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce)?

This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or even crusty bread to soak up that luscious sauce. You can also serve it alongside steamed veggies or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Marry Me Chicken in a Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce as much as I do! It’s not just another chicken dish; it’s comfort food at its finest that brings people together around the table. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner or just need something comforting on a busy night, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to experience all its deliciousness!