Introduction to Marry Me Chicken
What is Marry Me Chicken?
Marry Me Chicken is a delightful chicken dish that brings together juicy chicken breasts, creamy sauce, and a mix of savory flavors that make it irresistible. With a blend of garlic, parmesan, and sundried tomatoes, this recipe transforms a simple weeknight dinner into a gourmet experience. It's the kind of dish that makes you want to come back for seconds (or thirds), and it’s no wonder why people rave about it. The creamy texture and vibrant flavors are perfect over pasta or rice, making it an all-around comforting meal.
The Story Behind the Name
So, why is it called Marry Me Chicken? Legend has it that this dish is so delicious that serving it to your partner could lead to a marriage proposal. Funny, right? The story speaks to the power of food in expressing love and connection. Before you know it, your dining table could turn into a romantic backdrop filled with laughter and shared memories. It’s a fantastic way to impress someone special, showing that a little cooking goes a long way in sparking joy and delicious conversations. If you're curious about making your own Marry Me Chicken, check out the full recipe below!
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken
Key Ingredients You'll Need
To create a delightful Marry Me Chicken, you’ll first need some essential ingredients that bring this dish to life:
- 3 large chicken breasts: Make sure they are boneless and skinless, sliced thinly for even cooking.
- Salt and pepper: For seasoning, enhancing the flavors of the chicken.
- All-purpose flour: This helps create a lovely crust on the chicken.
- Olive oil and unsalted butter: A mix for sautéing the chicken, adding richness to the dish.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic elevates the flavor profile.
- Chicken stock and heavy cream: These create a luscious and creamy sauce.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated fresh cheese brings a delicious umami kick.
- Chili flakes, oregano, and thyme: These spices add warmth and depth.
- Sundried tomatoes: A vibrant ingredient for extra flavor and color.
- Fresh basil leaves: For a beautiful garnish and freshness.
Optional Ingredients for Customization
Feel free to personalize your Marry Me Chicken with these optional ingredients:
- Mushrooms: Sauté with the garlic for an earthy note.
- Spinach or kale: Stir in some greens for added nutrition.
- Different cheeses: Experiment with mozzarella or goat cheese for varied flavors.
- Lemon zest: Adds a refreshing citrus touch to brighten the dish.
These modifications allow you to adapt the recipe to suit your taste or the seasonal ingredients available. Happy cooking!
Preparing Marry Me Chicken
Gather and prep your ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, it's essential to gather your ingredients. This easy meal comes together quickly, so having everything ready will make your cooking experience much smoother. You will need:
- 3 large chicken breasts (boneless and skinless, sliced lengthwise into thin cutlets)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 6 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 3 cloves of minced garlic
- 1 cup of chicken stock
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon of chili flakes
- ¼ teaspoon of oregano
- ¼ teaspoon of thyme
- ⅓ cup of chopped sundried tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon of fresh basil leaves
Having your materials prepped, including the garlic minced and the sundried tomatoes chopped, will make the next steps much easier.
Season the chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken cutlets with salt and pepper. This step is key to infusing flavor into the chicken and ensures each bite is delicious. Next, dredge the seasoned chicken in flour, shaking off any excess. This will give your chicken a lovely crust when sautéed, adding to the overall experience of your Marry Me Chicken.
Brown the chicken in a skillet
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and melt the butter together. This combination creates rich flavor and helps prevent sticking. Carefully add the chicken cutlets, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it to keep it warm.
Create the creamy sauce
In the same skillet, add your minced garlic and sauté for about one minute. The aroma will be heavenly! Next, pour in the chicken stock, scraping any browned bits stuck to the pan. These little morsels pack extra flavor into your sauce. Lower the heat, then stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese, allowing everything to meld together and simmer gently.
Combine chicken with the sauce
Once your creamy sauce is ready, season it with the chili flakes, oregano, and thyme. Feel free to adjust the flavors to your liking. Add the sundried tomatoes next, then return the browned chicken to the skillet. Simmer everything together for a few minutes until the chicken is heated and the sauce thickens.
Garnish and serve
To finish off your delicious Marry Me Chicken, garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves before serving. This easy dish is wonderfully paired with pasta or rice, soaking up the luxurious sauce. So, go ahead, plate it up, and prepare to impress your loved ones! Enjoy a meal that is not only delectable but may just inspire a proposal! For a visual step-by-step, check out this helpful cooking video.
Now, with these straightforward steps, you’re all set to create a spectacular dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Variations on Marry Me Chicken
Adding Veggies to the Dish
Elevate your Marry Me Chicken by incorporating your favorite vegetables. Consider adding:
- Spinach: Toss in fresh spinach towards the end for a burst of color and nutrition.
- Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with garlic for a rich, earthy flavor.
- Zucchini: Add diced zucchini or bell peppers for a crunchy texture.
These additions not only enhance the dish but also bring extra vitamins to the table. Plus, they make it even more appealing!
Substituting Proteins
Want to switch things up? You can easily adapt Marry Me Chicken using other proteins:
- Turkey Bacon: For a lighter version with a smoky flavor, replace regular bacon with turkey bacon.
- Chicken Ham: Try chicken ham for a savory twist—you'll love the added depth it brings to the sauce.
- Beef: Use thin cuts of beef for a different take, providing a heartier meal.
These variations give you endless possibilities, keeping dinner exciting every night!
Cooking Tips for Marry Me Chicken
Choosing the Right Chicken
When preparing Marry Me Chicken, the choice of chicken is crucial. Opt for large, boneless, and skinless chicken breasts for juicy cutlets that cook evenly. If you're looking for a bit more flavor, consider using chicken thighs, though they will take a little longer to cook. Remember, slicing the chicken into thin cutlets ensures a quicker cooking time and better absorption of that delicious sauce!
Importance of Fresh Herbs
Fresh herbs can elevate your dish to new heights! For Marry Me Chicken, basil, thyme, and oregano play an essential role in creating a vibrant flavor profile. Fresh herbs release oils that packed with flavor, which dried herbs may not match. Consider visiting your local farmer's market to pick up the freshest options available. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for using fresh herbs over dried ones!
By following these simple tips, you're sure to create a memorable meal that might just lead to a proposal! Whether it's a date night or a special occasion, Marry Me Chicken can be the perfect dish to impress.
Serving suggestions for Marry Me Chicken
Pairing with pasta or rice
To make your Marry Me Chicken even more satisfying, serve it over a bed of pasta or rice. Wide noodles like fettuccine or even classic spaghetti beautifully catch the creamy sauce, while fluffy rice complements the dish's rich flavors. For a whole grain twist, consider brown rice or quinoa for added texture and nutrients.
Side dishes and salads to complement
Round out your meal with fresh, vibrant sides. A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast. For something hearty, roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts work wonders. If you’re craving carbs, garlic bread or a side of crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up that divine sauce!
Time breakdown for Marry Me Chicken
Preparation time
Getting things ready for your Marry Me Chicken takes just 10 minutes. This quick prep includes slicing your chicken, measuring out ingredients, and gathering your cooking tools.
Cooking time
Once everything is prepped, cook your delicious chicken in about 15 minutes. It's a fast process that's perfect for busy weeknights but feels a bit luxurious too!
Total time
In just 25 minutes from start to finish, you can present this creamy, dreamy dish that may just seal the deal! You'll have a wonderful meal with minimal fuss. For more tips on timing and preparation, check out Serious Eats.
Nutritional Facts for Marry Me Chicken
Calories
In a delightful serving of Marry Me Chicken, you’ll find approximately 447 calories. This makes it a satisfying yet balanced option for dinner, perfect for cozy weeknights.
Protein
Packed with around 31 grams of protein, this dish is an excellent choice for those looking to boost their protein intake. Chicken breasts are a lean source of protein, contributing to muscle maintenance and overall health.
Fat
With about 30 grams of fat, the creamy sauce adds richness and flavor. While this includes healthy fats from olive oil and butter, it’s ideal to enjoy this dish in moderation to maintain a balanced diet.
For more detailed nutritional insights, you can check out the USDA food database. Remember, the combination of creamy sauce and savory chicken not only satisfies the palate but also provides essential nutrients to fuel your day!
FAQs about Marry Me Chicken
What does "Marry Me" taste like?
Marry Me Chicken offers a delightful explosion of flavors! The succulent chicken, combined with a rich, creamy sauce infused with parmesan, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes, creates a savory dish that feels both comforting and gourmet. The subtle heat from the chili flakes adds an exciting twist without overpowering the main flavors, while the fresh basil garnishing elevates the dish with a touch of brightness. It's truly a meal that's both indulgent and satisfying!
Can I make it in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Cooking it in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just wait to add the basil until you're ready to serve. Store it in the fridge, then reheat gently in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken stock if the sauce thickens too much.
How do I store leftovers?
To keep your Marry Me Chicken fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, a quick jaunt in the microwave or a warm-up in a skillet works perfectly. Just remember to add a splash of water to the sauce, as it tends to thicken when stored. For more tips on food storage, you can check out resources from the USDA here.
Conclusion on Marry Me Chicken
In summary, Marry Me Chicken is a dish that’s sure to impress! Its creamy sauce and tender chicken make it a standout for romantic dinners or family gatherings. Try it paired with your favorite pasta or rice for a meal that’ll have everyone asking for more. Your kitchen adventures await!
Marry Me Chicken
Equipment
- skillet
- Kitchen tongs
- spatula
Ingredients
Chicken Ingredients
- 3 large chicken breasts boneless and skinless, sliced lengthwise into thin cutlets
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour 50 grams
- 2 tablespoons olive oil 30 ml
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 28 grams
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup chicken stock 240 ml
- 1 cup heavy cream double cream in the UK, 240 ml
- ½ cup parmesan cheese grated, 43 grams
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- ¼ teaspoon oregano
- ¼ teaspoon thyme
- ⅓ cup sundried tomatoes chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Season chicken with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour and shake off any excess.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and melt the butter on medium heat. Swirl pan to coat with oil and butter evenly.
- Brown the chicken (do not overcrowd and work in batches if needed) for 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer onto a plate, cover, and set aside.
- Saute the garlic for a minute or until it's fragrant. Add the chicken stock, and deglaze the pan scraping any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon.
- Adjust the heat to medium-low, and add the heavy cream and the parmesan cheese to the skillet. Allow the sauce to simmer for a couple of minutes, then season with chili flakes, thyme, and oregano.
- Season with salt and pepper to your taste, add the sundried tomatoes then put the chicken back in the sauce and let the sauce simmer and thicken for a few more minutes.
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves and serve warm over pasta or rice.
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