Marry Me Chicken in Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce Recipe

If you have been dreaming of a dish that is both luxurious and comforting, the Marry Me Chicken in Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce Recipe is about to become your new favorite. This recipe perfectly balances tender, juicy chicken with a silky, aromatic sauce bursting with the richness of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and that subtle hint of white wine. Every bite is filled with layers of flavor that make it irresistible, whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just treating yourself to something delicious during a busy week. It’s a creamy chicken recipe that’s deceptively simple but impressively elegant—a total crowd-pleaser that promises to wow your taste buds and invite second helpings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to mastering this dish. Each one is simple but essential, contributing texture, brightness, or that luscious creaminess to make your sauce sing and your chicken shine.

• 2.2 pounds chicken breast, boneless, skinless: Thin cutlets or cubes ensure quick, even cooking and soak up the sauce beautifully.
• 4 tbsp olive oil, divided: For searing the chicken and softening the onions, providing a rich base flavor.
• 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the chicken perfectly.
• 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds mild heat and depth to the dish.
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional): A little kick that wakes up the sauce without overpowering it.
• 1 large red onion, thinly sliced: Offers sweetness and a tender texture after sautéing.
• 5 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a robust, aromatic punch that pairs beautifully with tomatoes and cream.
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc): Adds acidity and complexity, perfectly brightening the sauce.
• 3/4 cup water: Helps to create the sauce base and brings everything together.
• 1/4 cup tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor for that deliciously rich sauce.
• 1¼ cups heavy cream: Turns the sauce silky and luscious, enveloping every piece of chicken.
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained and chopped): Delivers bursts of tangy sweetness that make this dish stand out.
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped: Adds herbal brightness and a fresh finishing note.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken in Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Marinate the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken dry to ensure it sears nicely. Cut it into thin cutlets or bite-sized pieces so it cooks quickly and can soak up that dreamy sauce. Toss the chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, and cayenne if you’re using it. Let it rest and marinate for at least 15 minutes – this simple step layers flavor right from the start.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat half of your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Lay the chicken in a single layer and sear each piece until it’s golden and cooked through. Then remove it from the pan and set it aside. This golden crust is crucial for flavor and texture, so don’t rush this step.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining olive oil to the skillet. Toss in the sliced red onion and cook it gently until it becomes soft and translucent. Next, add the garlic, cooking just until it’s fragrant—around 30 seconds to a minute. This builds a sweet and savory base for the sauce.

Step 4: Deglaze and Build the Sauce

Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. This is where the magic happens, layering complex flavor. Let the wine reduce by half so the alcohol cooks off, leaving behind a balanced tang. Then stir in tomato paste and water, simmering gently until the sauce thickens just a bit.

Step 5: Add Cream, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Basil

Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring until the sauce is smooth and rich. Fold in your chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil leaves to infuse the sauce with bursts of tanginess and herbal freshness that perfectly cut through the creaminess.

Step 6: Return Chicken and Simmer

Return your golden chicken to the skillet and let everything simmer together until the sauce thickens enough to coat every delicious bite of chicken. This melds the flavors beautifully and ensures every morsel is drenched in that luscious sun-dried tomato cream.

How to Serve Marry Me Chicken in Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

To finish off your Marry Me Chicken in Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce Recipe, sprinkle a handful of torn fresh basil or chopped parsley on top for a pop of vibrant green color and fresh herbal flavor. A few shavings of Parmesan add a savory touch that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides that can soak up all that glorious sauce. Think creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or even buttery garlic bread. For a lighter option, roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad balance the richness with freshness and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a unique twist, serve this chicken over a bed of cooked pasta like fettuccine or penne to turn it into a colorful creamy pasta dinner. Alternatively, swirl the sauce through polenta or serve alongside grilled asparagus for a refined presentation that will impress any guest.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers of this Marry Me Chicken in Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken absorbs the sauce even more, making for a delicious second meal when reheated gently.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce together. Use a freezer-safe container or bag and keep it for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the cream sauce may slightly change texture upon thawing but will still taste amazing.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, to prevent the cream sauce from splitting. Adding a splash of milk or cream can help revive the sauce if it looks a bit thick or separated after storage.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and add a bit more juiciness and flavor to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

What can I substitute for white wine?

If you don’t have white wine on hand, chicken broth combined with a splash of lemon juice or white vinegar works well to provide that slight acidity and depth, keeping your sauce vibrant.

How do I prevent the cream sauce from curdling?

Keep your heat low when you add the cream, and avoid boiling the sauce vigorously. Stir gently to maintain the smooth, velvety texture that makes this recipe so addictive.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a creamy dairy-free alternative. The flavor will be a bit different but still delicious and creamy.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This Marry Me Chicken in Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce Recipe reheats well and can be portioned out for lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just remember to store it properly to maintain freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Marry Me Chicken in Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce Recipe has a way of turning any night into a special occasion. From the juicy, tender chicken to the rich and tangy sauce that smells incredible as it simmers, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. So go ahead, invite your favorite people over or enjoy a cozy solo dinner—this recipe promises love at first bite every time.

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