– **Title**: Creamy Marry Me Chicken
– **Ingredients**:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
– **Instructions**:
1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
5. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let it simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes to heat the chicken through and allow the flavors to meld.
7. Serve the chicken warmed through, drizzled with the creamy sauce and garnished with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep this dish light and tender. You can also use thighs for extra juiciness, or even tofu for a vegetarian version!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add sweetness and depth. If you don’t have them, try using roasted red peppers or fresh tomatoes sautéed until soft. Both give a nice flavor upgrade!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, use half-and-half or Greek yogurt (add it at the end to avoid curdling). This still keeps the meal creamy and delicious.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a rich, nutty flavor. Pecorino Romano can work as a substitute for a sharper taste, or nutritional yeast for a vegan twist!
Fresh Spinach: Feel free to swap in kale or Swiss chard if you have them. They also wilt well and add a nice nutrient boost!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Golden Brown?
Getting that golden sear is key for flavor! Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the olive oil; it should shimmer.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook the chicken in batches if needed.
- Let the chicken cook without moving it for the first few minutes. This helps it brown well.
- Flip only once; constant flipping can prevent that beautiful crust from forming.
- Check if it’s golden brown before turning. You want a nice crispy exterior!
How to Make Creamy Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For The Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Creamy Marry Me Chicken takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook, making it a quick and satisfying meal ready in about 40 minutes total. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This adds flavor and will help to enhance the dish!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts carefully. Sear them until they are golden brown, which should take about 5-7 minutes on each side. When they are done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté them for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently until they become fragrant. This will bring out all the lovely flavors!
4. Make the Cream Sauce:
Now, pour in the heavy cream and stir everything together. Add the Italian seasoning, paprika, and the grated Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer on medium heat for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
5. Add the Spinach:
Next, stir in the fresh spinach and cook it just until it wilts, which should only take a minute or two. This adds a beautiful color and texture to your dish!
6. Combine and Cook:
Return the seared chicken back to the skillet, and make sure to spoon the creamy sauce over the top of it. Let everything cook together for another 5 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender, and all the flavors meld beautifully.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy chicken hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves on top. If you like a little kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes for an extra touch. Enjoy your delightful meal!
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream With a Lighter Option?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version. Keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich and creamy, so consider adding a tablespoon of flour to thicken it, or using a little cornstarch mixed with water for a similar texture.
What Can I Use Instead of Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, you can use roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile. Just chop them up and add them in the same step. Alternatively, you could use fresh tomatoes, but you’ll need to cook them down until soft first to release their juices.
How Do I Store Leftover Creamy Marry Me Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You may want to add a splash of cream or broth to restore some moisture if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They are a bit juicier and more flavorful, which can enhance the overall taste of the dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs may take a bit longer to cook through compared to breasts.
