How to Make Marry Me Chicken for a Romantic Dinner

Are you ready to impress your loved one with a dish that’s not only delicious but also has a name that sparks curiosity? Let me introduce you to Marry Me Chicken! This creamy, flavorful chicken dish is perfect for a romantic dinner, and it’s surprisingly easy to whip up at home. Trust me, it’s one of those easy pasta recipes that will have you feeling like a gourmet chef in no time. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinner ideas.
• Rich and creamy sauce that pairs beautifully with pasta.
• Perfect for impressing your partner or family during special occasions.
• Can be made in just 30 minutes, ideal for 30-minute meals.
• Versatile enough to be served with various sides or on its own.

Ingredients

To create this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil, plus more for serving
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Cooked pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or your favorite), for serving

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful dish:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer (cook in batches if needed). Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add chopped onion. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent (5-7 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
4. Build the Sauce: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, dried oregano, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for about a minute.
5. Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for a few minutes, allowing the broth to reduce slightly.
6. Creamy Finish: Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine and Simmer: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the sauce. Stir to coat the chicken evenly. Let it simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
8. Fresh Basil: Stir in the chopped fresh basil.
9. Serve: Serve over your favorite cooked pasta. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your Marry Me Chicken turns out perfectly:

• For a little extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
• If you prefer a bit of heat, don’t skip the red pepper flakes; they add a lovely kick!
• Feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp or even tofu for a different twist.
• Pair this dish with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Serve

This creamy chicken dish is best served over your favorite pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine. The sauce clings beautifully to the noodles, making every bite a delight. You can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the dish. And don’t forget to sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for that finishing touch!

Make Ahead and Storage

If you’re planning a romantic dinner but want to save time, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them when you’re ready to serve. This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

So, whether you’re planning a special date night or just want to treat yourself to a delicious meal, this Marry Me Chicken is sure to impress. It’s a fantastic addition to your collection of quick family dinners and easy meals. And if you’re looking for more inspiration, check out my recipes for Garlic Butter Beef Bites, Beef with Broccoli, and Mongolian Beef. Happy cooking!