If you’re looking for a dish that’s quick, delicious, and guaranteed to impress, this “Marry Me Chicken” is the perfect choice. Not only is it ready in just 30 minutes, but it’s also dairy-free and gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs. This creamy, flavorful chicken dish is sure to win over anyone who tastes it. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
- Gluten-Free Flour: Bob’s Red Mill is a great option
- 2 Tbsps Good Olive Oil
- 4 Chicken Breasts
- 1 Large Shallot, Chopped (or two small)
- 1 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 2 Cups Chicken Broth
- 1 Cup Coconut Cream (or heavy cream if not dairy-free)
- Handful of Chopped Spinach
- 2 Tbsps Finely Chopped Basil
- 1 Cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Chopped (dried, not in oil)
- 3/4 Cup Dairy-Free Parmesan Cheese (or regular if not dairy-free)
Seasoning
- 2 Tsps Oregano
- 1 Tsp Thyme
- 1 Tsp Red Pepper Flakes
- 1 Tsp Salt
- 1 Tsp Pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Lightly dredge them in gluten-free flour to ensure an even coating.
2. Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until a golden crust forms. Reduce the heat to medium, cover the skillet, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped shallots. Sauté while scraping the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for about 3-4 minutes until the shallots are translucent and fragrant.
4. Create the Sauce
Add 1 1/2 cups of chicken broth and the coconut cream to the skillet. Stir until the mixture becomes bubbly and starts to thicken.
5. Add Vegetables and Seasoning
Stir in the chopped spinach, basil, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, and sun-dried tomatoes. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened, about 10 minutes.
6. Adjust the Consistency
If the sauce is too thick, add the remaining 1/2 cup of chicken broth to achieve your desired consistency.
7. Final Touches
Stir in the dairy-free Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, coating them with the sauce. Remove from heat.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the “Marry Me Chicken” over basmati rice or your favorite pasta. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired. Enjoy!
Tips for Perfect “Marry Me Chicken”
- Chicken: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more chicken broth if needed.
- Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting and flavor.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Tongs
Storage and Leftovers
Store any leftover “Marry Me Chicken” in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or coconut cream to the skillet and warm over low heat until heated through.
Variations and Swaps
- Protein Swap: Replace chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different protein option.
- Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- Spicy: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for a spicier version.
Perfect Pairings
This “Marry Me Chicken” pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and drinks. Here are a few suggestions:
- Garlic Bread: Serve with gluten-free garlic bread for a perfect combination.
- Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken.
- White Wine: Pair with a glass of crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of flour? A: Yes, you can use any gluten-free flour blend you prefer. Regular all-purpose flour can also be used if you don’t need a gluten-free option.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken separately ahead of time. Reheat the sauce and cook the chicken fresh when ready to serve.
Q: What can I use instead of coconut cream? A: Heavy cream can be used if you’re not avoiding dairy. For a dairy-free option, you can also use almond milk cream or cashew cream.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier? A: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.
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I hope you enjoy making and savoring this “Marry Me Chicken” as much as I do! If you loved this recipe, please share it with your friends and family. Don’t forget to subscribe to my blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips. Happy cooking!