Easy Marry Me Chicken

There’s something truly magical about the flavors in Easy Marry Me Chicken. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a spontaneous weeknight dinner, and I was feeling adventurous. As I sautéed the chicken, the aroma of garlic and spices filled my kitchen, creating an irresistible atmosphere. My family gathered around the table, and I could see their eyes light up with anticipation. This dish has a way of bringing people together, making even the simplest moments feel special. With its creamy sauce and rich flavors, Easy Marry Me Chicken has become a staple in our home, often requested for celebrations and cozy dinners alike. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms the heart.

Ingredients for Easy Marry Me Chicken

The ingredients for Easy Marry Me Chicken come together in a beautiful harmony of flavors. This recipe features a mix of proteins and creamy elements, which work seamlessly to create a rich, satisfying meal. The star players include juicy chicken, aromatic garlic, and savory sun-dried tomatoes, all coming together to make this dish unforgettable.

• 2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breast: The main protein that brings heartiness to the dish.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a base layer of flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder: Contributes a subtle sweetness and depth.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning, enhancing the flavors of the ingredients.
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and complexity.
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: Used for searing the chicken, adding richness.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates a luscious base for the sauce.
• 4 medium garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic intensifies the flavor profile.
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds a hint of spice and warmth.
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Used to thicken the sauce, creating a creamy texture.
• 1½ cups chicken broth: The foundation of the sauce, adding depth and moisture.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Provides richness and creaminess to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds a signature flavor.
• salt and pepper, to taste: For final seasoning adjustments.
• ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, drained: Adds a burst of flavor and color.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, umami flavor to the mix.
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese, at room temperature (cut into small pieces): Provides extra creaminess to the sauce.
• chopped fresh basil, for garnish: A fresh touch that brightens the dish.

Step by Step Instructions for Easy Marry Me Chicken

Cooking Easy Marry Me Chicken is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas. Follow these steps closely for the best results, and soon you’ll be savoring this creamy, flavorful dish.

1. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly, as this will build the initial flavor. Set aside to marinate briefly.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil shimmers, indicating it’s hot enough for searing. This step is crucial for locking in the juices of the chicken.
3. Sear the chicken for about 2 minutes on each side. You’re not cooking it all the way through but just getting a beautiful golden-brown crust. This enhances the flavor.
4. Once seared, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. This step is important as you will use the same skillet to build your sauce.
5. Add the butter to the skillet and heat it over medium heat until melted. The butter should foam but not brown, as you want to keep its rich flavor intact.
6. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the melted butter, stirring for about a minute until fragrant. This is where the magic begins!
7. Whisk in the flour to make a roux. Stir continuously to avoid lumps, and cook for another minute to remove the raw taste of the flour.
8. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Then add the heavy whipping cream and Italian seasoning, stirring to combine. Season to taste with salt and black pepper.
9. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and cream cheese. Watch as the sauce begins to thicken and becomes creamy. Allow it to come to a gentle boil.
10. Add the seared chicken back to the pan, ensuring it’s coated with the sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens further. The chicken should be tender and juicy.
11. Finally, sprinkle with chopped fresh basil for garnish before serving. This adds a lovely fresh note to the rich dish.
12. Serve the Easy Marry Me Chicken over freshly cooked pasta noodles or rice. Enjoy this delicious meal with family and friends!

How to Switch It Up

There are many ways to get creative with Easy Marry Me Chicken. Here are some tips to customize the dish or enhance your culinary experience.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to a month. Just be sure to thaw and reheat slowly to maintain the sauce’s creaminess.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Add veggies: Incorporate vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
• Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme or parsley to change the flavor profile.
• Cheese alternatives: Try using different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a unique twist.

Serving This Easy Marry Me Chicken

When it comes to serving Easy Marry Me Chicken, there are plenty of delightful options. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:

• Over pasta: Serve the chicken and sauce over freshly cooked pasta noodles. This adds a comforting element.
• With rice: Pair with white or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce for a satisfying meal.
• Accompany with salad: A light garden salad with a vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
• Perfect for date nights: This dish sets the mood for a romantic dinner, making it ideal for anniversaries or special occasions.
• Great for family gatherings: Its simple preparation and crowd-pleasing taste make it perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
• Seasonal pairings: During summer, serve with grilled vegetables; in winter, it goes well with hearty side dishes like roasted potatoes.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Easy Marry Me Chicken is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its creamy sauce and tender chicken make it a favorite among family and friends. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed! It’s an easy way to create a memorable meal that brings everyone together around the table.

Easy Marry Me Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Easy Marry Me Chicken is rich, creamy, and guaranteed to impress. With tender chicken and a luscious sauce, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Make this dish tonight for a meal that’s full of flavor and warmth!

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 42 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 700

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds chicken breast skinless, boneless
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
• 1 tablespoon olive oil extra virgin
• 3 tablespoons butter unsalted
• 4 medium garlic cloves minced
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 3 tablespoons flour all-purpose
• 1½ cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• salt to taste
• black pepper to taste
• ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese at room temperature, cut into small pieces
• basil chopped fresh, for garnish

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Skillet
• Whisk
• Grater
• Saucepan
• Chef's Knife
• Frying pan
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly, as this will build the initial flavor. Set aside to marinate briefly.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil shimmers, indicating it’s hot enough for searing. This step is crucial for locking in the juices of the chicken.
3. Sear the chicken for about 2 minutes on each side. You’re not cooking it all the way through but just getting a beautiful golden-brown crust. This enhances the flavor.
4. Once seared, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. This step is important as you will use the same skillet to build your sauce.
5. Add the butter to the skillet and heat it over medium heat until melted. The butter should foam but not brown, as you want to keep its rich flavor intact.
6. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the melted butter, stirring for about a minute until fragrant. This is where the magic begins!
7. Whisk in the flour to make a roux. Stir continuously to avoid lumps, and cook for another minute to remove the raw taste of the flour.
8. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Then add the heavy whipping cream and Italian seasoning, stirring to combine. Season to taste with salt and black pepper.
9. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and cream cheese. Watch as the sauce begins to thicken and becomes creamy. Allow it to come to a gentle boil.
10. Add the seared chicken back to the pan, ensuring it's coated with the sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens further. The chicken should be tender and juicy.
11. Finally, sprinkle with chopped fresh basil for garnish before serving. This adds a lovely fresh note to the rich dish.
12. Serve the Easy Marry Me Chicken over freshly cooked pasta noodles or rice. Enjoy this delicious meal with family and friends!

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

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