“Marry Me Chicken” is a popular and flavorful chicken dish known for its rich and creamy sauce. The name humorously suggests that the dish is so delicious it might convince someone to propose marriage. Typically, it features chicken breasts cooked in a creamy sauce made with ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, often with a touch of white wine or chicken broth. This dish is beloved for its comforting taste and relatively straightforward preparation, making it a favorite for both special occasions and weeknight dinners.
Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients:
6 Chicken Thighs
Use ALL seasonings to your liking
Onion powder
Garlic powder
Cajun seasoning
Pepper
Paprika
Italian herbs
Olive oil
Sauce
2 tbsp Butter
2 Tbsp fresh minced Garlic
1/2cup Chicken broth
1/3 cup Heavy whipping cream
Sun dried Tomatoes
1 Tbsp White cooking wine
1/2 cup Fresh Shredded Parmesan or Italian cheese
Salt
Pepper
Italian herbs
Season & pansear Chicken thighs on both sides w/olive oil in skillet. Transfer to separate Pan. In same skillet start your sauce. Add butter & garlic, cook for about 3 mins. Add chicken broth, sun dried tomatoes and whipping cream. Add seasoning and allow to simmer. Add your cheese while constantly stirring. Pour sauce over chicken and bake in oven for 30-35min on 400 degrees. Serve over Mashed Potatoes
Variations of Marry Me Chicken:
- Mushroom Addition: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms into the sauce for added depth and texture.
- Spinach: Add fresh spinach or kale for a boost of nutrition and color.
- Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil to alter the flavor profile.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish a bit of heat.
- Different Cheeses: Substitute Parmesan with other cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a different flavor.
Tips for Making Marry Me Chicken:
- Pound the Chicken: To ensure even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking.
- Sear the Chicken: Brown the chicken well before adding the sauce for a richer flavor.
- Deglaze the Pan: After browning the chicken, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine or broth to incorporate any browned bits into the sauce.
- Simmer Gently: Allow the sauce to simmer gently to thicken and develop flavor, but avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it with a little chicken broth or cream.
Feel free to experiment with these variations and tips to find your perfect version of Marry Me Chicken!
To store Marry Me Chicken properly and maintain its quality, follow these guidelines:
In the Refrigerator:
- Cool Down: Allow the chicken and sauce to cool to room temperature.
- Transfer to Containers: Place the chicken and sauce in airtight containers. If possible, separate the chicken from the sauce to prevent the chicken from becoming too soggy.
- Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
In the Freezer:
- Cool Down: Allow the chicken and sauce to cool completely.
- Portion: Divide the chicken and sauce into meal-sized portions and place them in freezer-safe bags or containers. Again, separating the chicken from the sauce can help maintain texture.
- Label and Freeze: Label the containers with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
- From the Refrigerator: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or cream to restore consistency.
- From the Freezer: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat as described above.
By following these steps, you can keep your Marry Me Chicken tasting fresh and delicious for future meals.
The nutritional information for Marry Me Chicken can vary based on the specific recipe and portion sizes, but here’s a general estimate for a standard serving:
Approximate Nutritional Information (per 1 serving, ~1 cup of chicken with sauce):
- Calories: 400-500
- Protein: 30-35 grams
- Fat: 25-30 grams
- Saturated Fat: 8-12 grams
- Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams
- Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sugars: 2-5 grams
- Cholesterol: 100-120 milligrams
- Sodium: 600-800 milligrams
Notes:
- Calories and Fat: The richness of the sauce, often made with cream, cheese, and sometimes butter, contributes to higher calorie and fat content.
- Protein: Chicken is a high-protein food, making it a good option for those seeking protein-rich meals.
- Carbohydrates: The carbohydrate content comes mainly from added ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or any starches used.
To make the dish lighter, you can modify the recipe by using lower-fat dairy options or reducing the amount of cheese and cream. Always adjust based on your specific recipe and ingredient choices for the most accurate nutritional information.