Here’s a delightful recipe for Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli that promises to be as romantic as it sounds. Picture this: succulent chicken bathed in a creamy, herb-infused sauce, paired with tender ravioli that practically dances on your palate. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, making your neighbors wonder what culinary magic is happening behind those closed doors. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a family gathering, this dish is sure to steal hearts.
Now, let me take you back to the first time I made this dish. I was trying to impress someone special, and honestly, I was more nervous than a cat at a dog show. But as the chicken sizzled and the ravioli bubbled away, the kitchen filled with such intoxicating scents that even my pet goldfish perked up. It became our go-to recipe for date nights and celebrations alike; every time we enjoyed it, it felt like love was simmering right there in the pot.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This amazing chicken dish offers both incredible flavor and ease of preparation.
- The creamy sauce makes every bite feel indulgent without overwhelming your taste buds.
- Visually appealing with its vibrant colors, it looks fantastic on any dinner table.
- Perfectly versatile, you can serve it with different types of pasta or vegetables based on what you have at home.
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts for this recipe, adjusting based on your guests’ appetite.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm garlic cloves; they add a punch of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- Heavy Cream: This transforms the sauce into a luscious experience; opt for high-quality cream for better results.
- Chicken Broth: A flavorful base that brings depth; low-sodium options work well to control saltiness.
- Dried Italian Herbs: A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme adds warmth and complexity to the sauce.
For the Ravioli:
- Frozen Cheese Ravioli: Convenient and delicious; these little pillows of joy save you time while still delivering great taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Season the boneless chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This step is crucial—think of it as giving your chicken a runway debut!
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
In your prepared pan over medium-high heat, add olive oil and let it heat up. Once shimmering, place the seasoned chicken breasts in the pan and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Remove the chicken from the pan temporarily. In the same skillet, toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about one minute). Then pour in heavy cream and chicken broth while stirring frequently to combine everything into saucy goodness.
Step 5: Add Herbs
Sprinkle in dried Italian herbs while stirring—the kitchen should now smell like an Italian trattoria! Return the chicken to the pan so it can soak up all that saucy love.
Step 6: Bake and Cook Ravioli
Transfer everything into your preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should hit 165°F/74°C). While that’s baking away, cook your frozen ravioli according to package instructions—this usually takes around 3-5 minutes.
To serve: Plate up that glorious chicken alongside a generous scoop of ravioli. Drizzle some extra sauce over everything for good measure—you want every bite bursting with flavor!
With each bite of Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli, you’ll find yourself falling deeper in love—not just with this dish but also with cooking itself! It’s hard not to smile when you see everyone enjoying what you’ve made. Be prepared; they might just propose after tasting this culinary masterpiece!
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, sealing in those flavors. While the chicken cooks, boil your ravioli to tender perfection. Simultaneously, whip up that luscious sauce to bring everything together in harmonious, mouthwatering bliss.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out proteins like turkey or beef if you’re feeling adventurous. You can also play with different herbs and spices, or even toss in some fresh vegetables for added crunch and color. Make it uniquely yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stovetop over low heat or pop them into the microwave for a quick meal without losing flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always let your chicken rest after cooking; this keeps it juicy and tender!
- When boiling ravioli, don’t overcrowd the pot; this ensures even cooking.
- Finally, use fresh herbs for maximum flavor; they elevate every dish effortlessly.
Sometimes I whip up this dish when friends are over, and their reactions always make me feel like a culinary superstar! Who knew cooking could spark such joy?
FAQs:
What is Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli?
Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken cooked in a creamy sauce with cheese-filled ravioli. This recipe substitutes traditional ingredients, ensuring it is rich in flavor without using pork or alcohol. The chicken is seasoned and cooked to perfection, then served atop a bed of ravioli that complements the savory sauce. It’s an ideal meal for impressing loved ones at dinner or during special occasions.
How can I make Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli healthier?
To make Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli healthier, you can choose whole grain or vegetable-based ravioli instead of traditional varieties. Additionally, use skinless chicken breast for a leaner protein option. Incorporating more vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, into the creamy sauce can enhance nutritional value without compromising flavor. Opting for low-fat dairy products in the sauce can also reduce calories while maintaining creaminess.
Can I prepare Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli ahead of time. To do this, cook the chicken and sauce separately from the ravioli. Store each component in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken sauce and cook the ravioli according to package instructions. This method allows you to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort on busy days.
What side dishes pair well with Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli?
Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli pairs nicely with light side dishes that balance its richness. Consider serving a fresh garden salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for added nutrients. Garlic bread is also an excellent choice to soak up any leftover creamy sauce on your plate. These sides will complement your meal without overpowering the flavors of the main dish.
Conclusion for Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli:
Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli is a flavorful dish perfect for any occasion, combining tender chicken in a creamy sauce with delightful ravioli. By substituting traditional ingredients, this recipe remains delicious while catering to dietary preferences. You can enhance its healthiness by selecting whole grain options and adding vegetables. Preparing it ahead of time allows for convenience without sacrificing taste. Enjoy this dish at your next gathering or romantic dinner!
Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli
Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli is a romantic dish that features tender boneless chicken simmered in a rich, creamy sauce infused with Italian herbs. Accompanied by fluffy cheese ravioli, this elegant yet simple meal is perfect for impressing a special someone or delighting the entire family. With its enticing flavors and beautiful presentation, it’s sure to make any dinner unforgettable.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- 12 oz frozen cheese ravioli
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Season chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in the prepared pan over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken and add minced garlic to the pan; sauté for one minute until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth; mix well.
- Add dried herbs and return the chicken to the pan to soak up flavors.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). During this time, cook ravioli according to package instructions.
- Serve chicken atop ravioli, drizzled with sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 675
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 39g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: Substitute turkey or beef for the chicken if desired. Enhance flavor by adding fresh vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
