Whip Up a Flavorful 20-Minute Marry Me Chicken Recipe!
Are you ready to fall head over heels for a dish that will make you say “yes” after the first bite? Look no further than our mouthwatering 20-Minute Marry Me Chicken recipe! This flavorful dish combines tender chicken thighs, a creamy tomato sauce, and a blend of herbs and spices that will leave your taste buds swooning. Get this: I added okra and kale to my recipe; yes, ladies and gentlemen, okra. And the best part? It’s ready in just 20 minutes, making it the perfect option for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner.
Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen as the chicken simmers in the savory sauce, creating a tantalizing blend of flavors that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or just treating yourself to a delicious meal, our Marry Me Chicken is guaranteed to win your heart.
So why wait for someone to pop the question when you can make this romantic and flavorful dish yourself? Get ready to fall head over heels in love with our 20-Minute Marry Me Chicken recipe. Just one bite, and you’ll say “I do” to this culinary masterpiece.
Why is it called “Marry Me Chicken”?
The name “Marry Me Chicken” may pique your curiosity. Is it because this dish is so delicious that it will make your significant other propose on the spot? Well, not exactly. The name originates from the idea that this dish is so irresistible that it could make someone fall in love with you after just one bite. While the name is whimsical, the flavors and simplicity of this recipe make it unique.
Ingredients for the Marry Me Chicken recipe
To create this flavorful and romantic dish, you will need the following ingredients:
– 4 boneless or bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 whole tomato, cubed
– 3 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon complete seasoning
– 2 teaspoons dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-step instructions for making 20 minute Marry Me Chicken
Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients follow the step-by-step instructions for making this flavorful Marry Me Chicken:
1. Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs and cook for 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion, tomatoes, and minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes or until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Add okra and saute for another 5 minutes (Remove some of the okra slime).
4. Pour in the water, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Add the complete seasoning and bring the broth to a simmer.
5. Stir in the heavy cream, tomato paste, dried basil, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
6. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the chicken simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked and the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Serve the 20 Minute Marry Me Chicken hot, spooning the creamy tomato sauce over the chicken breasts. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
Tips for perfecting the Marry Me Chicken recipe
Here are a few tips to ensure that your Marry Me Chicken turns out perfect every time:
1. For this recipe, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, as they cook quickly and evenly. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer.
2. Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper, enhancing their flavor.
3. When sautéing the onion and garlic, be careful not to burn them. Cook them just until they are fragrant and translucent.
4. If you like a little kick of heat, add the optional red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.
5. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 10 minutes to ensure that it absorbs the flavors of the creamy tomato sauce.
6. Serve the 20 Minute Marry Me Chicken immediately to enjoy it at its best. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Variations and substitutions for the Marry Me Chicken recipe
While our Marry Me Chicken recipe is already packed with flavor, feel free to make some variations or substitutions to suit your taste:
1. substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version.
2. Add some vegetables to the sauce for extra nutrition and color. Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach would all be delicious additions.
3. If you prefer a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeño or some cayenne pepper to the sauce.
4. Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your unique flavor profile. Thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika would work well in this dish.
Marry Me Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are a few serving suggestions to inspire you:
1. Serve the chicken breasts and creamy tomato sauce over a bed of cooked pasta, such as fettuccine or penne. The pasta will soak up the sauce’s delicious flavors.
2. Pair the Marry Me Chicken with fluffy white rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
3. Serve the chicken on a toasted bun or ciabatta roll for a mouthwatering sandwich.
4. Enjoy the chicken alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
The Marry Me Chicken recipe contains several key ingredients that offer health benefits:
1. Chicken thighs: Chicken is a lean source of protein essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. It also provides important vitamins and minerals.
2. Tomatoes: Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant associated with a reduced risk of certain types of cancer and heart disease.
3. Garlic: Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties and has been shown to have antibacterial and antiviral effects.
4. Basil and thyme: These herbs add flavor to the dish and offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Frequently asked questions about 20 Minute Marry Me Chicken.
1. Can I make Marry Me Chicken ahead of time? While it’s best to enjoy Marry Me Chicken immediately after cooking, you can make the sauce and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the sauce and cook the chicken when ready to serve.
2. Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken? Yes, you can freeze Marry Me Chicken. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
3. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe? While bone-in chicken can be used, the cooking time will be longer. To ensure it is fully cooked, ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. Can I use other types of meat? Try this recipe with boneless pork chops or shrimp for a delicious variation.
Conclusion and final thoughts
Marry Me Chicken is a dish that will impress your taste buds and anyone lucky enough to share it with you. This recipe is a true culinary masterpiece with its creamy tomato sauce, tender chicken breasts, and a blend of herbs and spices. And the best part? It can be made in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect option for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner.
So why wait for someone to pop the question when you can make this romantic and flavorful dish yourself? Whip up our 20 Minute Marry Me Chicken recipe and let the flavors do the talking. Whether cooking for someone special or treating yourself, this dish will win your heart. So go ahead, take a bite, and say “I do” to this irresistible dish.
Blog Post Recommendations
5 comments
Oh I looooove marry me chicken. My fav go-to recipe to impress. Yours are quite different but looks amazing. Would love to try your version. Thank you so much for sharing. 🙂
good morning, yes my version is different. the Bahamian in me is always looking to add some Bahamian cooking style or Flavor to any recipe
I have never tried okra and chicken together. Awesome recipe!
Good morning, i know right. The Bahamian in me always look to add the flavors i grew up on to a recipe.
Love the name “Marry Me Chicken” It definitely looks flavorful. I like the nutrition facts you share about your chicken dish. However, I believe that left over chicken taste better the next day or 2 after. Thanks for sharing your recipe.