Delicious Marry Me Chicken Recipe: A Mouthwatering Dish for Your Next Romantic Dinner!
When I first heard the name “Marry Me Chicken,” I was intrigued. What could possibly make a chicken dish so irresistible that it would inspire someone to propose marriage?
As it turns out, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser for a good reason.
Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and sure to impress.
In this article, I’ll share everything you need about this beloved recipe, from the ingredients to the variations and frequently asked questions.
Ingredients
Sure, here’s a detailed description of each ingredient in Marry Me Chicken:
- Chicken: The dish’s star is a lean protein that’s easy to cook and pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy sauce. You use bone-in chicken thighs or breasts or a combination of both for this recipe. Chicken is a great source of protein and essential nutrients like niacin and phosphorus.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet and tangy flavor to the dish. They are made by drying fresh tomatoes in the sun or a dehydrator, intensifying their flavor and giving them a chewy texture. Sun-dried tomatoes are a good source of vitamins A and C and antioxidants.
- Garlic: Garlic is a spicy and aromatic ingredient that adds depth of flavor to the sauce. It has been used for centuries for both culinary and medicinal purposes. Garlic contains anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial compounds, making it a healthy addition to any meal.
- Chicken Broth: Chicken broth is made by simmering chicken bones, vegetables, and herbs in water. It adds flavor and richness to the sauce and helps thin it out. Chicken broth is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
- Heavy Cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce so rich and creamy. It is a high-fat dairy product made by skimming the fat off fresh milk. Heavy cream is a good source of fat-sol vitamins like A, D, and E, and it also contains the essential fatty acid linoleic acid.
- Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan cheese is a hard, salty cheese made from cow’s milk. It adds a nutty and salty flavor to the sauce and helps thicken it. Parmesan cheese is a good source of calcium and protein.
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh like thyme and basil add a fragrant and herbaceous flavor to the dish. They are packed with antioxidants and other beneficial plant compounds that can help to reduce inflammation and improve overall health.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil is a healthy fat rich in monounsaturated fatty acids. This recipe uses it to sauté the chicken and garlic, adding a fruity and peppery flavor. Olive oil is a good source of vitamin E and other antioxidants.
- Salt and Pepper: Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning the chicken and the sauce. Salt enhances the flavor of other ingredients and helps balance the sweetness of the sun-dried tomatoes, while black pepper adds subtle heat and depth of flavor to the dish.
All of these ingredients come together to create a dish that’s delicious and packed with nutrients and health benefits.
Preparation
Making Marry Me Chicken is simple and straightforward.
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then searing them in a skillet until golden brown on both sides.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, sauté garlic and sundried tomatoes, then add heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese to create a creamy sauce.
Return the chicken to the skillet and let it simmer in the sauce until fully cooked.
Serve hot and enjoy!.
Tips and Tricks
I recommend adding spinach and mushrooms to the sauce to make this dish even more delicious.
You can also experiment with different seasonings, such as Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes, to add extra flavor.
If you’re short on time, you can also make this dish in a slow cooker or Instant Pot.
Here are some tips and tricks to make the perfect Marry Me Chicken:
- Use a meat thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. The temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Brown the chicken: Before adding the chicken to the sauce, brown it on both sides. This will give it a nice crispy exterior and help seal the juices.
- Use good quality ingredients: Since this dish relies on a few simple ingredients, it’s important to use high-quality ingredients for the best results. Use fresh herbs, good quality chicken, and a good brand of Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- Let the sauce simmer: Once you’ve added the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken and develop the flavors.
- Serve with a side dish: Marry Me Chicken pairs well with various side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
- Customize the recipe: You can customize this recipe to your taste by adding additional ingredients like mushrooms, spinach, or artichokes. You can also adjust the seasoning to your liking by adding more or less salt and pepper.
- Leftovers: This dish reheats well so that you can enjoy it for lunch or dinner the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat it in the microwave or stovetop.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to make a delicious and impressive Marry Me Chicken that’s sure to “wow” your guests.
Side dishes
Roasted Vegetables:
Roasting vegetables such as asparagus, brussels sprouts, or carrots bring out their natural sweetness and add a nice crunch to your meal.
You can toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast them in the oven until tender and caramelized.
Mashed Potatoes:
Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect complement to the creamy sauce in Marry Me Chicken.
You can make mashed potatoes with butter, milk, garlic, and your favorite herbs.
Garlic Bread:
Warm, crusty garlic bread is the perfect way to soak up the delicious sauce from the chicken.
You can make the garlic bread by spreading some garlic butter on a baguette and toasting it in the oven until crispy.
Rice or Quinoa:
A side of rice or quinoa is a great way to add some healthy carbs to your meal and soak up the flavorful sauce.
You can cook the rice or quinoa with chicken or vegetable broth for added flavor.
Salad:
A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy chicken.
You can toss the salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and your favorite dressing.
Pasta:
A side of pasta noodles, such as fettuccine or linguine, is a great way to soak up the flavorful sauce from the chicken.
You can cook the pasta according to the package instructions and toss it with some olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
Sautéed Spinach:
Sautéed spinach is a healthy and flavorful side dish that pairs well with Marry Me Chicken.
You can sauté the spinach with garlic and olive oil until wilted and tender.
Roasted Potatoes:
Roasted potatoes are a satisfying and delicious side dish, seasoned with herbs and roasted until crispy.
You can toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and roast them in the oven until golden brown.
Grilled Vegetables:
Grilled vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers are a great way to add char and smokiness to your meal.
You can brush the vegetables with olive oil and grill them until tender and charred.
Breadsticks:
Warm, buttery breadsticks are a classic Italian side that pairs well with Marry Me Chicken.
You can make the breadsticks from scratch or use store-bought ones and brush them with garlic butter before serving.
No matter which side dishes you choose, Marry Me Chicken is a delicious and satisfying meal that will impress your loved ones.
Variations
While the classic Marry Me Chicken recipe is delicious on its own, there are many variations you can try.
Some recipes incorporate bacon or prosciutto for added smokiness, while others use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or feta.
You can also experiment with different vegetables, such as roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts.
FAQ
What are the main ingredients used in Marry Me Chicken?
The main ingredients in Marry Me Chicken are chicken breasts, heavy cream, sundried tomatoes, garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese.
How do you make Marry Me Chicken?
To make Marry Me Chicken, you start by searing chicken breasts in a skillet, then making a creamy sauce with heavy cream, garlic, sundried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese.
Return the chicken to the skillet and let it simmer in the sauce until fully cooked.
Are there any variations of Marry Me Chicken?
Yes, there are many variations of Marry Me Chicken.
Some recipes incorporate bacon or prosciutto, while others use different types of cheese or vegetables.
How many calories are in Marry Me Chicken?
The number of calories in Marry Me Chicken can vary depending on its preparation, but a typical serving contains around 400-500 calories.
Is Marry Me Chicken a healthy meal?
While Marry Me Chicken is delicious, it’s not the healthiest meal.
It’s high in fat and calories due to the heavy cream and cheese.
However, you can adjust the recipe to make it slightly healthier by using low-fat dairy products or adding more vegetables.
Can you make Marry Me Chicken in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make Marry Me Chicken in a slow cooker.
Simply follow the recipe as written, but instead of searing the chicken in a skillet, place it in a slow cooker with the other ingredients and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
How long does Marry Me Chicken last in the fridge?
Marry Me Chicken will last in the fridge for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container.
Can you freeze Marry Me Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze Marry Me Chicken.
Simply store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Can you make Marry Me Chicken with boneless, skinless chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best choice for this recipe.
Can you freeze marry me chicken?
Yes, you can freeze Marry Me Chicken.
Simply store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Why is it called marry me chicken?
The origin of the name Marry Me Chicken is unclear, but some speculate that it’s because the dish is so delicious that it could inspire someone to propose marriage.
What can I serve with marry me chicken?
Marry Me Chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or garlic bread.
Is marry me chicken healthy?
While Marry Me Chicken is delicious, it’s not the healthiest meal.
It’s high in fat and calories due to the heavy cream and cheese.
However, you can adjust the recipe to make it slightly healthier, such as by using low-fat dairy products or adding more vegetables.
What sides go good with marry me chicken?
Marry Me Chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or garlic bread.
Is marry me chicken keto?
Unfortunately, Marry Me Chicken is not keto-friendly due to its high carb and fat content.
Is marry me chicken the same as Tuscan chicken?
While the two dishes share some similarities, they are not the same.
Tuscan chicken typically includes sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and white beans, while Marry Me Chicken does not typically include beans.
What wine goes with marry me chicken?
A bold, full-bodied red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel pairs well with Marry Me Chicken.
How long to bake marry me chicken?
Marry Me Chicken is typically cooked on the stove, not in the oven.
However, if you want to bake it, place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes or until fully cooked.
Conclusion:
Marry Me Chicken is a delicious, creamy dish that will impress.
While it may not be the healthiest meal, it’s a great choice for a special occasion or when you want to treat yourself.
With a few simple adjustments, you can make this dish slightly healthier or experiment with different variations to keep things interesting.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a crowd, Marry Me Chicken is a recipe that’s sure to please.