If you’re looking for a dish that will make your significant other fall in love all over again, look no further than this marry me chicken recipe! This savory dish features tender chicken thighs simmered in a creamy sun-dried tomato and basil sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. Perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion, this recipe is both simple and elegant, promising to impress while being easy to prepare.
Ingredients
– 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, while cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (about 1 chicken thigh with sauce) contains approximately:
– Calories: 420
– Protein: 30g
– Fat: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 8g
– Fiber: 1g
This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
3. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
4. Add the chicken thighs, skin side down, and sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Flip the chicken and add garlic, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, allowing them to cook for a couple of minutes.
7. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, mixing well.
8. Sprinkle in the dried basil and Italian seasoning, stirring to combine.
9. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then transfer the skillet to the oven.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option. For a dairy-free version, try using coconut cream instead of heavy cream and vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.
Serving and Pairings
Serve this dish over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, pasta, or with a side of garlic bread. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables also complement the flavors beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover marry me chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. The dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing the chicken.
– Don’t skip the browning step; it adds flavor.
– Ensure the chicken is fully cooked to avoid foodborne illness.
– Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
– Adjust seasoning to taste before baking.
Helpful Tips
– Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking for juicier meat.
– Experiment with different herbs for varied flavors.
– Pair with a white wine like Chardonnay for a complete meal.
– Use a thermometer to check for doneness.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but cooking time may be reduced. Ensure it is cooked through to 165°F (75°C).
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Certainly! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and reheat it before serving for convenience.
What can I serve with marry me chicken?
This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad to balance the richness.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, this recipe is not spicy. It has a rich, creamy flavor profile. You can add red pepper flakes for heat if desired.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Just ensure your skillet or baking dish is large enough to accommodate the extra chicken.
Conclusion
The marry me chicken recipe is a perfect blend of flavors that will surely impress anyone at your dinner table. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s a dish that not only pleases the palate but also creates memorable moments. Give it a try for your next special occasion; you might just find it leads to a proposal!
Marry Me Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs bone-in and skin-on
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken thighs, skin side down, and sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Flip the chicken and add garlic, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, allowing them to cook for a couple of minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, mixing well.
- Sprinkle in the dried basil and Italian seasoning, stirring to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then transfer the skillet to the oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
