Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Chicken is a decadent and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts in a creamy sun-dried tomato and Parmesan sauce. The combination of rich flavors is so irresistible, it’s said to inspire marriage proposals! Perfect for a romantic dinner or an indulgent family meal, this dish is easy to make and sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: A luscious sauce that pairs beautifully with chicken.
• Restaurant-Quality: A dish that feels fancy but is simple to prepare.
• Versatile: Serve with pasta, rice, or low-carb sides like zucchini noodles.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A perfect balance of savory, tangy, and creamy flavors.
• Quick to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight meals.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Garlic (minced)
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• Italian seasoning
• Spinach (fresh)
• Salt and pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, grated Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
4. Add Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
5. Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to soak up the flavors.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan. Serve hot with your favorite side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Protein Options: Substitute chicken with pork chops or salmon for a different twist.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast as substitutes for cream and Parmesan.
• Vegetarian: Swap chicken for tofu or mushrooms for a plant-based version.
• Low-Carb: Pair with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly option.
• Herb Boost: Add fresh rosemary or thyme for extra aroma.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

1. Why is it called “Marry Me Chicken”?

The dish is so delicious that it’s jokingly said to inspire marriage proposals!

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work perfectly and add extra flavor.

3. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Use room-temperature cream and avoid boiling the sauce after adding the cream.

4. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?

Sun-dried tomatoes provide a concentrated flavor, but fresh tomatoes can work as a milder alternative.

5. Is this dish spicy?

It’s mild, but you can add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the chicken and sauce separately. Reheat and combine before serving.

7. What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

Serve with pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.

8. Can I freeze this dish?

The sauce may not freeze well due to the cream, but you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately. Thaw and reheat gently.

9. What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?

Let the sauce simmer to reduce, or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water.

10. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

Freshly grated Parmesan is best for melting smoothly, but pre-grated can work in a pinch.

Conclusion

Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Chicken is a rich and indulgent dish that’s easy to make and packed with incredible flavors. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, it’s sure to impress family or guests. Try it for your next dinner, and don’t be surprised if someone asks for your hand in marriage!

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