There’s a certain magic that unfolds in the kitchen when you prepare a dish that not only impresses but also brings everyone together. Marry Me Chicken is one such delightful recipe that has captured many hearts—and palates. Imagine tender chicken breasts simmered slowly in a creamy, flavorful sauce, all garnished with rich Parmesan and fresh basil. It’s the type of meal that can transform an ordinary night into a special occasion, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or lively gatherings. Every bite is a love letter to your taste buds, and you’ll understand why people proclaim their affection for this dish!

Why you’ll fall in love with this dish

Marry Me Chicken stands out because it effortlessly combines rich flavors with straightforward preparation. It’s a wonderful option for those busy nights when you want something hearty yet simple to make. The creaminess of the sauce enveloping the chicken provides comfort, while the sun-dried tomatoes lend a touch of sweetness and tang. This dish can easily become a crowd-pleaser, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners, romantic evenings, or even meal prep so you can enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.

“This dish truly lives up to its name! A weeknight dinner that feels gourmet!” — Maria, a satisfied cook

Step-by-step overview

Cooking Marry Me Chicken is a breeze, making it enjoyable for both novice and experienced cooks alike. This recipe comes together in a few simple steps and can be tailored to suit your taste. The slow cooker makes the process even easier, allowing you to set it and forget it while the flavors meld beautifully. You’ll start with the chicken, followed by creating the luscious sauce which is poured over, and finally, let the magic happen as it cooks to perfection.

What you’ll need

To whip up this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:

4 chicken breasts
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for topping
Fresh basil for garnish

Feel free to substitute the chicken with boneless thighs for added juiciness or use a non-dairy cream if you want a lighter option.

Directions to follow

Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker.
In a bowl, whisk together the sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
Pour this creamy mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it with the sauce for an all-encompassing flavor.
Serve the dish hot, topped with Parmesan cheese and garnished with fresh basil.

Creative ways to enjoy it

When serving Marry Me Chicken, consider pairing it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh, crisp salad. Here’s a fun plating idea: serve the chicken over a bed of garlic sautéed spinach or alongside a colorful medley of roasted vegetables. The contrast in colors and flavors truly elevates the dish!

Keeping leftovers fresh

To keep your delicious creation fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F for safety. If you have more than just a few servings, consider freezing the extras! Just transfer them to a freezer-safe container, and you can enjoy this dish at a later date.

Pro chef tips

For additional depth of flavor, try sautéing the garlic before adding it to the sauce—it enriches the dish significantly!
Adding a splash of white wine to the sauce can enhance the flavor profile even more if you’re feeling adventurous.
Don’t hesitate to switch up the type of cheese; goat cheese or mozzarella can add a delightful twist!

Creative twists

If you’re looking to mix things up a bit, consider the following variations:

Swap out the heavy cream for a lighter yogurt for a tangy twist.
Add a few spinach leaves or artichoke hearts for a veggie boost.
Experiment with spices—paprika or red pepper flakes can add a fun kick!

Your questions answered

What is the prep time for Marry Me Chicken? The prep time is approximately 15 minutes, making it a quick and easy weeknight meal.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, you can! Just ensure you extend the cooking time slightly if starting from frozen; they should reach the same internal temperature.
How do I store leftovers safely? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge and consume them within three days. Always reheat to 165°F.
Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, as long as you ensure that your chicken broth doesn’t contain gluten, this recipe can be enjoyed by those on a gluten-free diet.

With its simple preparation and impressive flavor, Marry Me Chicken is destined to become a go-to favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Marry Me Chicken

Author: amir_hassan
Total Time: 255 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Gluten-Free

Print Recipe

Description

A delightful dish featuring tender chicken breasts in a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, and fresh basil, perfect for weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

4 chicken breasts
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for topping
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker.
In a bowl, whisk together the sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
Pour this creamy mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it with the sauce for an all-encompassing flavor.
Serve the dish hot, topped with Parmesan cheese and garnished with fresh basil.

Notes

For added juiciness, substitute chicken with boneless thighs. Use non-dairy cream for a lighter option.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 240 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: Italian