What is dairy free marry me chicken?
Are you looking for an indulgent yet healthy weeknight dinner that’s sure to impress? You’re in luck because our take on the trending dairy free marry me chicken is about to become your new favorite dish. This version is made dairy-free by swapping heavy cream for coconut milk, creating a rich and creamy sauce that’s just as delicious as the original.
The Marry Me Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts cooked in a flavorful sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and aromatic herbs. This dish is perfect for those with lactose intolerance or anyone following a dairy-free diet. With simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, this one-pan meal is a staple for many households.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- A dairy-free version of the popular Marry Me Chicken recipe.
- Coconut milk replaces heavy cream for a rich and creamy sauce.
- Tender chicken breasts cooked with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs.
- Perfect for those with lactose intolerance or on a dairy-free diet.
- A simple and versatile one-pan meal with minimal preparation time.
The Story Behind Marry Me Chicken
The ‘Marry Me Chicken’ recipe has a fascinating backstory that has captured the hearts of many food enthusiasts. This dish gets its name from a humorous anecdote about someone receiving a marriage proposal after preparing it for their date.
Origin of the Name
The name “Marry Me Chicken” originated from a playful story about a romantic dinner that led to a marriage proposal. This anecdote has become an integral part of the recipe’s charm, making it a popular choice for special occasions.
Why This Dish is So Popular
The “Marry Me Chicken” recipe gained popularity on social media platforms where home cooks shared their success stories. The dish’s rich, creamy sauce and simple preparation method have made it a favorite among food enthusiasts. It’s known for transforming ordinary chicken into an extraordinary meal, which is why it’s often chosen for date nights and special occasions.
What Makes Dairy Free Marry Me Chicken Special
By substituting coconut milk for heavy cream, you can enjoy Marry Me Chicken without the dairy. This simple swap transforms the traditional recipe into a dairy-free version that’s just as delicious.
Traditional vs. Dairy-Free Version
The traditional Marry Me Chicken recipe relies on dairy products like heavy cream and parmesan cheese for its rich sauce. In contrast, the dairy-free version uses coconut milk and nutritional yeast to replicate the creamy texture and cheesy flavor. Coconut milk adds a subtle sweetness that complements the savory elements of the chicken and other ingredients, making it a great alternative.
Health Benefits of Going Dairy-Free
Going dairy-free can offer several health benefits, particularly for those with lactose intolerance, milk allergies, or inflammatory conditions triggered by dairy consumption. The dairy-free version of Marry Me Chicken is not only delicious but also a healthier approach to enjoying this popular dish. You can pair it with pasta, rice, or dairy-free mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.
- The dairy-free version is made possible by substituting coconut milk for heavy cream, creating a similarly creamy texture.
- Nutritional yeast serves as an excellent replacement for parmesan cheese, providing a savory, slightly cheesy flavor.
- This adaptation makes the dish accessible to those following dairy-free, paleo, or Whole30 eating plans.
Essential Ingredients for Dairy Free Marry Me Chicken
To make dairy-free Marry Me Chicken, you’ll need a selection of key ingredients that replace traditional dairy products. The dish relies on a combination of protein, cream alternatives, cheese substitutes, and flavorful herbs and vegetables.
Chicken Options
The foundation of dairy-free Marry Me Chicken starts with 1½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, though chicken thighs can be substituted for a juicier alternative.
Dairy-Free Cream Alternatives
For the dairy-free cream base, a 13.5-ounce can of full-fat coconut milk serves as the primary substitute for heavy cream, providing richness without any dairy.
Cheese Substitutes
Nutritional yeast (about 3 tablespoons) is the secret ingredient that replaces parmesan cheese, adding a savory, slightly cheesy flavor that’s completely plant-based.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Breasts | 1½ pounds | Main Protein |
| Coconut Milk | 13.5-ounce can | Dairy-Free Cream Base |
| Nutritional Yeast | 3 tablespoons | Cheese Substitute |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | Aromatic Flavor |
| Sun-Dried Tomatoes | ¾ cup | Flavor Enhancer |
Herbs and Seasonings
For herbs and seasonings, you’ll need 1 teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Other Vegetables
Sun-dried tomatoes (approximately ¾ cup, roughly chopped) are essential for their intense, sweet-tart flavor that defines the character of the sauce.
These ingredients work together to create a balanced, flavorful dish that maintains the essence of the original recipe while being completely free of dairy products.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
You can easily make Dairy Free Marry Me Chicken by following these step-by-step cooking instructions. This dish is a creamy, flavorful delight that’s perfect for any meal.
Preparing the Chicken
Begin by seasoning boneless, skinless chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering but not smoking. Carefully add chicken to the hot pan and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown, being careful not to move them during searing to develop a nice crust.
Creating the Dairy-Free Cream Sauce
Once seared, remove the chicken breasts from the pan and set aside on a plate while you prepare the sauce. Reduce the heat to medium-low and add a little more oil if needed, then add 3 cloves of minced garlic to the pan, stirring frequently to prevent burning for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in 1 can of coconut milk, stirring to deglaze the pan and scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom.
Combining and Finishing the Dish
Add ½ cup of chicken broth, ¾ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir the sauce ingredients together and bring to a gentle simmer before adding the chicken back to the pan. Cover the skillet and let everything simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the flavors to meld.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Breasts | 2 | Main Protein |
| Coconut Milk | 1 can | Creamy Sauce Base |
| Fresh Basil | ½ cup | Garnish and Flavor |
After the cooking time is complete, move the chicken to the sides of the pan and whisk in a slurry made from 1 tablespoon arrowroot starch and 2-3 tablespoons of chicken broth to thicken the sauce. Remove the pan from heat and stir in ½ cup of fresh basil, reserving some for garnish. Serve the chicken with plenty of the creamy sauce spooned over the top and garnish with additional fresh basil.
Tips for Perfect Dairy Free Marry Me Chicken
Making dairy-free Marry Me Chicken that’s sure to impress involves mastering a few crucial steps. The right techniques can elevate this dish from good to great, ensuring that the flavors are rich and the chicken is cooked to perfection.
Achieving the Right Sauce Consistency
The sauce is a critical component of Marry Me Chicken. To achieve the right consistency, use full-fat canned coconut milk, as it provides a rich and creamy texture without being too thick. If your sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a small amount of chicken broth. Conversely, if it’s too thin, an additional arrowroot slurry can help thicken it.
| Sauce Consistency Tips | Action |
|---|---|
| Too Thick | Add chicken broth |
| Too Thin | Add arrowroot slurry |
Flavor Enhancement Techniques
To enhance the flavor of your dairy-free Marry Me Chicken, consider a few techniques. First, ensure your skillet is hot before adding oil and chicken to achieve a golden brown sear. Don’t skip the deglazing step, as the browned bits at the bottom of the skillet contain concentrated flavor compounds. Adding a splash of dairy-free white wine can also add complexity to the sauce.
By following these tips, you can create a dairy-free Marry Me Chicken that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. The key is to balance flavors and textures, ensuring that each bite is satisfying and enjoyable.
Delicious Variations of Dairy Free Marry Me Chicken
Dairy Free Marry Me Chicken serves as a canvas for a wide range of creative variations, allowing you to experiment with new flavors and ingredients every time you make it.
Adding Different Vegetables
You can enhance the nutritional value and texture of Dairy Free Marry Me Chicken by incorporating various vegetables. Consider adding spinach, kale, or artichoke hearts to the dish. Cherry tomatoes are another excellent addition, bursting in the pan to release fresh tomato flavor alongside the sun-dried tomatoes. Roasted bell peppers can also complement the existing flavors while adding a vibrant color to the dish.
Spice Level Adjustments
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, you can increase the spice level by adding more red pepper flakes or introducing fresh chili peppers into the recipe. Conversely, for a milder version, you can reduce or omit the red pepper flakes entirely, making it suitable for a family-friendly meal.
Protein Alternatives
Ground chicken can be used as a substitute for chicken breasts to create a Marry Me Chicken meatball variation. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs offer a juicier alternative to breasts. For a plant-based version, you can replace chicken with firm tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas, making the dish vegan-friendly.
| Variation | Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Vegetable Addition | Spinach, Cherry Tomatoes | Fresh, Earthy |
| Spicy Version | Red Pepper Flakes, Chili Peppers | Spicy, Bold |
| Protein Alternative | Tofu, Tempeh | Plant-based, Versatile |
Best Side Dishes to Serve With Your Dairy Free Marry Me Chicken
To complement the rich flavors of Dairy Free Marry Me Chicken, consider these side dish options. The dish pairs well with a variety of grains, vegetables, and low-carb alternatives, making it easy to adapt to different dietary preferences.
Grain Options
For grain options, you can serve the chicken breasts over fluffy white rice or quinoa. Pasta is another excellent choice, especially if you opt for gluten-free varieties to accommodate dietary restrictions. Quinoa offers a protein-packed alternative that complements the chicken nicely.
Vegetable Pairings
Roasted asparagus or steamed green beans provide a fresh contrast to the rich sauce. You can also sauté spinach or kale in the same pan after removing the chicken to add nutritional value.
Low-Carb Alternatives
For low-carb diets, consider cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles (zoodles) as alternatives to traditional grains and pasta. Mashed cauliflower seasoned with dairy-free butter alternatives is another comforting option. These choices allow you to enjoy the flavorful chicken breasts while adhering to your dietary preferences.
Storing and Reheating Your Dairy Free Marry Me Chicken
To make the most of your dairy-free Marry Me Chicken, proper storage and reheating are essential. Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
When reheating, ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety. You can reheat it in a skillet over medium-low heat for about 5-7 minutes or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
For meal prep, this dairy-free Marry Me Chicken recipe is ideal as it reheats well and the flavors often intensify over time. Consider printing or pinning this post for easy reference next time you make this delicious chicken recipe.
