Irresistible Marry Me Chicken: A Recipe for Romance
Imagine serving a dish so delicious that it could inspire a marriage proposal! Marry Me Chicken combines tender chicken breasts with the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and a luscious cream sauce. Whether you're cooking for a loved one or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Let's dive into the details, and along the way, enjoy some fun facts and quirky tidbits!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Coat the chicken breasts in plain flour. This step helps to create a light crust on the chicken, adding texture and helping to thicken the sauce later.
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In a large, deep frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. When it's hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Cook for 5 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown. Remove the chicken breasts to a plate.
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Turn the heat under the pan to low and add the crushed garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, dried oregano, and paprika. Stir for 3-5 minutes until the garlic is softened and fragrant.
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Pour in the double cream and chicken stock, then add the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with plenty of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well to combine.
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Return the chicken breasts to the pan, nestling them into the sauce. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 5 minutes. Turn the chicken and cook for another 5 minutes, ensuring the chicken is cooked through.
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Fresh Touch: Remove the pan from the heat. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the chicken and sprinkle with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot and enjoy!
Note
Fun Facts and Quirky Tidbits:
1. The Proposal-Inspiring Name: The name "Marry Me Chicken" suggests that this dish is so irresistible, it could inspire a marriage proposal. It’s a popular recipe in the culinary world for its rich, comforting flavors and romantic connotations.
2. Sun-Dried Tomato Magic: Sun-dried tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which has numerous health benefits. They are a concentrated source of flavor, adding a sweet-tart taste and chewy texture to dishes. Fun fact: It takes about 10 pounds of fresh tomatoes to make 1 pound of sun-dried tomatoes!
3. Parmesan Royalty: Parmesan cheese, or Parmigiano-Reggiano, is known as the "King of Cheeses." It’s a hard, granular cheese that adds a nutty, umami flavor to the sauce, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Did you know? Authentic Parmesan cheese is aged for at least 12 months.
4. The Creamy Dream: The combination of double cream and chicken stock creates a luxurious, velvety sauce that coats the chicken beautifully. This rich sauce is what makes the dish so decadent and memorable. Fun twist: Try using heavy cream for an even richer texture.
5. Basil Bliss: Fresh basil adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor to the dish. Basil is also known for its health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and a rich supply of antioxidants. Fun fact: Basil is considered a symbol of love in Italy!
6. Versatile and Lovable: Marry Me Chicken can be served with a variety of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, pasta, or a fresh green salad. This versatility makes it a perfect dish for different occasions, from a casual dinner to a special date night. Pro tip: Pair it with a glass of white wine for a truly romantic meal.
Enjoy your Irresistible Marry Me Chicken and impress your loved ones with this delectable and romantic dish!
