If you’re on the hunt for a dinner recipe that’s both impressive and comforting, look no further than Marry Me Chicken Roll-Ups. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with a luscious, creamy sauce that’s bursting with Italian-inspired flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or just craving a hearty weeknight meal, these roll-ups are sure to steal the spotlight at your table.
The name “Marry Me Chicken” comes from the idea that this dish is so delicious, it could inspire a proposal. While I can’t guarantee wedding bells, I can promise that the combination of juicy chicken, rich cream, and savory seasonings will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s one of those easy chicken recipes that feels gourmet without requiring hours in the kitchen.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to create this mouthwatering meal. From the simple ingredients to step-by-step instructions, you’ll see why marry me chicken has become a viral sensation. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s perfect for easy weeknight meals or a cozy date night at home.
Recipe Overview
Here’s a quick snapshot of what you can expect when making Marry Me Chicken Roll-Ups. This dish fits seamlessly into a variety of meal plans and occasions.
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Category: Main Dish, Dinner
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
What You’ll Need
To craft these delightful chicken roll ups, you’ll need a handful of key components that work together to create layers of flavor and texture. Here’s a breakdown of the main ingredients and their roles in this recipe:
- Chicken Breasts: The star of the show, providing a lean and tender base for the roll-ups. Pounding them thin ensures even cooking and easy rolling.
- Cream Cheese: Adds a rich, tangy filling that keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Brings a sweet and slightly tart note, complementing the creamy elements with a burst of Italian flair.
- Heavy Cream: Forms the base of the luxurious sauce that makes this creamy chicken dish unforgettable.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty depth to both the filling and sauce, tying the flavors together.
- Italian Seasonings: A blend of herbs like basil and oregano infuses the dish with classic Italian recipes vibes.
- Garlic: Enhances the savory profile, making every bite irresistible.
Discover the fresh components behind Marry Me Chicken Roll-Ups
INGREDIENTS
- – 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- – 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- – 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- – 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- – 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- – 1/2 tsp salt
- – 1/4 tsp black pepper
- – 2 tbsp olive oil
- – 3 cloves garlic, minced
- – 1 cup heavy cream
- – 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- – 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- – Fresh basil for garnish
PREPARATION
Follow these straightforward steps to create your own batch of Marry Me Chicken Roll-Ups. This recipe is designed to be approachable, even for beginner cooks.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to about 1/4-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This helps them cook evenly and roll easily.
- In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined. Spread about 2 tbsp of this mixture onto each chicken breast.
- Carefully roll up each chicken breast, securing the ends with toothpicks if needed to keep the filling inside. Set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the rolled chicken breasts and sear for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, remaining Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Return the chicken roll-ups to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your quick dinner masterpiece!
NUTRITION INFORMATION
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content per serving for these chicken breast recipes. Values may vary based on specific brands or ingredient substitutions.
- Calories: 520
- Total Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 40g
- Sodium: 680mg
Tips for Perfect Chicken Roll-Ups
To ensure your chicken roll ups turn out flawless, don’t skip the step of pounding the chicken thin. This not only helps with even cooking but also makes rolling much easier. If the filling starts to ooze out, secure the edges tightly with toothpicks or kitchen twine before searing.
Customizing the Filling
Feel free to get creative with the filling for your marry me chicken. Swap out sun-dried tomatoes for spinach or roasted red peppers, or add a bit of chopped bacon for extra indulgence. The cream cheese base is versatile and pairs well with a variety of flavors.
Sauce Variations
The creamy sauce is the heart of this dish, but you can tweak it to your liking. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though it won’t be quite as thick. A splash of white wine added after sautéing the garlic can elevate the flavor profile for a fancier dinner inspiration.
Best Side Dishes to Pair
These roll-ups shine alongside simple sides that soak up the delicious sauce. Think garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a fresh green salad. For a low-carb option, serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to keep the meal light yet satisfying.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers of this creamy chicken dish store beautifully. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce, as microwaving can sometimes overcook the chicken.
Make-Ahead Option
For busy nights, prep these easy chicken recipes ahead of time. Assemble the roll-ups and store them uncooked in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready, sear and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they’re cold from the fridge.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for Marry Me Chicken Roll-Ups?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can work wonderfully in this recipe, though they’re a bit trickier to roll due to their shape. They’ll be juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked. Just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving. Flatten them as much as possible for easier rolling, and follow the same steps for a delicious twist on marry me chicken.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
To adapt this recipe for a dairy-free diet, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for the sauce. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a cheesy flavor. While the texture might differ slightly, you’ll still get a creamy, satisfying result for your easy weeknight meals.
What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?
No worries if your skillet isn’t oven-safe. After searing the chicken roll ups and making the sauce, transfer everything to a baking dish before popping it into the oven. Cover with foil if needed to prevent drying out, and bake as directed for a seamless finish.
Savor the creamy, comforting flavors of Marry Me Chicken Roll-Ups tonight!
Conclusion
These Marry Me Chicken Roll-Ups are the ultimate way to elevate your dinner game without spending all day in the kitchen. With tender chicken, a dreamy creamy sauce, and flavors that scream comfort, this dish is bound to become a staple in your rotation of easy chicken recipes. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself, it’s a recipe that delivers on taste and presentation every time.
Ready to give it a try? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and whip up this crowd-pleaser for your next meal. I’d love to hear how it turns out—drop a comment or tag me on social media with your creations. For more dinner inspiration, check out other recipes on my site, like my collection of Italian recipes that are just as irresistible.
