Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Searing · Storage: Up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Quick Answer
Marry-Me Chicken is a delightful, creamy dish that's quick to prepare, perfect for impressing loved ones during the festive season.
There's something magical about the holiday season in New York City. The streets twinkle with lights, the scent of roasted chestnuts fills the air, and we all start dreaming about the festive feasts ahead. One dish that has quickly found a special place in my heart-perfect for intimate dinners or gathering friends around the table-is the Marry-Me Chicken. With its creamy, herby sauce and tender chicken breasts, this dish is a surefire way to impress anyone. And the best part? You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for holiday hustle and bustle.
A Delicious Festive Delight
This Marry-Me Chicken recipe not only embodies the warmth of the season but is also incredibly easy to make, allowing you to enjoy quality time with your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Prepare a delicious meal in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or festive occasions.
- Impressive Flavor: The creamy, herby sauce combined with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach delivers a burst of flavor that will wow your guests.
- Versatile: Serve it over rice, pasta, or with roasted vegetables for a customizable dinner.
- Romantic Touch: This dish is designed to impress, making it ideal for intimate dinners or special celebrations.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the sauce in advance to save time and enhance the flavors.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious Marry-Me Chicken.
Chicken and Oil
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Flavorings
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, thyme, and basil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped
Garnish
- Fresh basil, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How to Make Marry-Me Chicken (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to whip up a delightful Marry-Me Chicken in under 30 minutes.
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken breasts dry using paper towels. This can't be stressed enough! A dried surface will promote a lovely sear, which adds a rich depth to the overall dish. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large, heavy skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When it shimmers, add the chicken breasts. Sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. The sound of the chicken hitting the pan should be a satisfying sizzle!
Step 3: Add the Flavors
Once the chicken is done, transfer it to a plate and cover it with foil to keep warm. In the same pan, lower the heat to medium and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then sprinkle in the dried Italian herbs.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the pan. Allow the broth to simmer for a couple of minutes. Then, pour in the heavy cream, stirring until it thickens slightly. You'll know it's ready when it coats the back of a spoon.
Step 5: Incorporate the Goodies
Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and chopped spinach. Once the spinach wilts, return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Let everything simmer together for another minute or two, allowing the chicken to soak in that creamy goodness. Garnish with fresh basil and, if desired, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve this dish over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside roasted vegetables for a festive touch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the drying step can lead to steaming instead of searing.
- Overcooking the chicken ensures it is juicy and tender, so monitor closely.
- Neglecting the sauce consistency may cause it to thicken too much; aim for a creamy yet pourable texture.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Don't hesitate to mix in some freshly grated lemon zest or a few splashes of balsamic vinegar for added depth of flavor.
- You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and just reheat before adding the chicken.
- Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil for the best flavor-trust me; it makes all the difference!
Variations
- Substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier texture.
- Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.
- Incorporate artichoke hearts or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
How to Serve
- Serve over a bed of fluffy rice or couscous for a complete meal.
- Pair with roasted vegetables for a festive touch.
- Top with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese for added flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce a day in advance and reheat before adding the chicken.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth for extra moisture if needed.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
When I first made Marry-Me Chicken, I was amazed by how quickly it came together without sacrificing flavor. This dish is undeniably romantic, and I've found it works wonderfully for cozy weeknight dinners as well as festive holiday gatherings! There's magic in simplicity, especially when it comes to food made with love.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~450 calories · 30g protein · 8g carbs · 35g fat
Recipe by:
Marry-Me Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat chicken breasts dry using paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a large, heavy skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and add the chicken breasts. Sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer the chicken to a plate, cover with foil, and in the same pan, lower the heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, then mix in dried Italian herbs.
- Pour chicken broth into the pan and scrape up flavorful bits. Simmer for a couple of minutes, then add heavy cream, stirring until it thickens slightly.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and chopped spinach. Once the spinach wilts, return the chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top.
- Let everything simmer for another minute or two, garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese, then serve over rice or roasted vegetables.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, but it's best to thaw them completely beforehand for even cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream, but this may alter the flavor and consistency of the sauce.
3. Is there a vegetarian version of Marry-Me Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with tofu or portobello mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
4. How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you'd like a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer longer to reduce, or whisk in a little cornstarch mixed with water until the desired consistency is reached.
5. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it and add the cooked chicken before serving.
