Why Make This Recipe
Marry Me Chicken is a dish that brings comfort, flavor, and a hint of romance to any dinner table. The creamy sauce, coupled with the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning, creates an inviting meal. Whether you are planning a cozy dinner for two or a family gathering, this recipe is an excellent choice. Its combination of simple ingredients and straightforward cooking methods makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Plus, the smell that fills your kitchen as it cooks is nothing short of mouthwatering!
This dish is not just about taste; it also gives a warm and affectionate touch that might just inspire someone to pop the question. It’s perfect for a date night at home, impressing friends, or simply enjoying a comforting meal by yourself.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken
Making Marry Me Chicken is a straightforward process that requires minimal effort but yields maximum flavor. With just a few ingredients and a crockpot, you can create a dish that feels special and tastes divine. Let’s go over the ingredients needed and the steps to prepare this delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Directions
Place Chicken in Crockpot: Start by placing the four boneless, skinless chicken breasts in your crockpot. Make sure they are laid out flat for even cooking. This helps the chicken cook uniformly, ensuring a juicy and tender result.
Mix Creamy Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together the heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are combined, creating a creamy sauce that will coat the chicken beautifully.
Pour Sauce Over Chicken: Once the sauce is mixed, pour it over the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Make sure each piece of chicken is nicely coated with the sauce. This not only adds flavor to the chicken but also keeps it moist during cooking.
Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Sprinkle the chopped sun-dried tomatoes on top of the chicken and sauce. These tomatoes will add a burst of flavor and a lovely texture to the dish.
Cook: Cover the crockpot and set it to low. Let the chicken cook for 4 to 6 hours. The low and slow method is perfect for ensuring the chicken becomes tender and absorbs all the flavors from the sauce.
Garnish and Serve: If desired, garnish with fresh basil before serving. This adds a pop of color and an additional layer of flavor.
How to Serve Marry Me Chicken
Marry Me Chicken can be served in several delightful ways. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with various side dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:
Over Pasta: Serve the chicken and sauce over a bed of pasta. Fettuccine or spaghetti works well, allowing the sauce to cling beautifully to the noodles.
With Rice: A side of fluffy white rice or wild rice is another great option. The rice will soak up the creamy sauce, making every bite delicious.
Alongside Vegetables: Serve with steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans. The bright colors add to the meal’s visual appeal, and the vegetables provide a nice crunch.
With Crusty Bread: A warm piece of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the sauce. This adds a rustic touch while bringing everyone together at the table.
No matter how you decide to serve Marry Me Chicken, it will surely be a hit at your dinner table!
How to Store Marry Me Chicken
If you have leftovers or plan to make this dish in advance, storing it correctly is essential to maintain its flavor and texture.
Refrigeration: Allow the Marry Me Chicken to cool completely. Then, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: If you want to freeze the dish, you can do so before or after cooking. To freeze before cooking, assemble the ingredients in a freezer-safe bag, seal it tightly, and label it with the date. If freezing after cooking, let it cool, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It should last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, you can reheat Marry Me Chicken in the microwave or on the stove. If heating in a pan, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to prevent the sauce from getting too thick or drying out.
Tips to Make Marry Me Chicken
Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality chicken and fresh ingredients whenever possible. They significantly impact the taste of the dish. For example, opt for organic chicken breasts and fresh herbs for better flavor.
Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. If you like a bit of heat, you might also add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Experiment with Herbs: While Italian seasoning is fantastic, don’t hesitate to try other fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or parsley to switch up the flavor profile.
Add Cheese: For an extra creamy and cheesy twist, stir in some grated parmesan cheese right before serving. This adds depth and richness to the sauce.
Variations
Marry Me Chicken can easily be adapted to fit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are a few variations you might enjoy:
Add Spinach: Toss in some fresh spinach leaves towards the end of the cooking process. They wilt beautifully and add a fresh flavor and a pop of color.
Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate olives, feta cheese, and lemon zest for a Mediterranean flair. These ingredients add a tangy contrast to the creamy sauce.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta or rice to make this dish friendly for those avoiding gluten. The flavor will remain just as wonderful but can cater to dietary needs.
Spicy Version: Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick. It’s a great way to turn up the heat in this romantic meal.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but the cooking time may increase. Make sure to cook them until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
2. Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?
Absolutely! You can sear the chicken in a skillet first, then add the sauce and let it simmer on low heat until the chicken is cooked through.
3. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half, coconut cream, or even a dairy-free alternative like cashew or almond cream, but the texture and taste may differ slightly.
4. How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
The chicken is ready when it is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
5. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Marry Me Chicken is perfect for meal prep! It reheats well and can be paired with different sides throughout the week.
With its rich, comforting flavors and ease of preparation, Marry Me Chicken is sure to become a favorite in your home. Give it a try, and enjoy a meal that just might inspire love!
Print
Marry Me Chicken
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A creamy and flavorful chicken dish perfect for date nights or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot, laid out flat for even cooking.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to create the sauce.
- Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated.
- Sprinkle the chopped sun-dried tomatoes on top of the chicken.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to low, cooking for 4 to 6 hours.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving, if desired.
Notes
Use high-quality chicken and fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 48g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
Keywords: chicken, creamy, romantic, crockpot, Italian, comfort food