Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli: The Ultimate Romantic Dinner

For a dinner that wows without hours in the kitchen, Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli is the ultimate choice. This dish pairs tender, flavorful chicken with a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce and perfectly cooked ravioli, making it elegant enough for date night yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner. The dish is rich, indulgent, and full of vibrant flavors that are sure to impress anyone at the table.

The name “Marry Me Chicken” comes from its irresistible flavor—a creamy, garlicky, sun-dried tomato sauce with a hint of spice that will have everyone asking for seconds. By serving it alongside cheese or spinach ravioli, the dish becomes a complete, romantic meal. Fresh herbs like basil and parsley add brightness, while Parmesan cheese enhances the richness of the sauce. This recipe is perfect for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or any night you want to make special.

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility. Chicken breasts are cooked to golden perfection and smothered in a luxurious sauce, while ravioli absorbs some of the sauce, creating a harmonious, restaurant-quality dish at home. The optional red pepper flakes provide a subtle kick, balancing the creaminess.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried oregano

For the Sauce:
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained and chopped)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Ravioli:
1 package (about 15 oz) refrigerated or frozen ravioli (cheese or spinach works great)
Salt for boiling water

Method:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C). Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add red pepper flakes if desired for a subtle spicy kick.

Step 3: Cook the Ravioli
While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ravioli according to package instructions, usually 3–5 minutes for fresh or refrigerated ravioli. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet with the sauce. Spoon sauce over the chicken and allow it to simmer together for 2–3 minutes, ensuring the chicken is coated and heated through.

Step 5: Serve
Plate the cooked ravioli and top with a chicken breast. Spoon extra sauce over the top and garnish with freshly chopped basil and parsley. Serve immediately for a luxurious, romantic meal.

Tips and Variations:

• Chicken Options: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier alternative.
• Pasta Options: If you prefer, serve with fettuccine, linguine, or penne instead of ravioli.
• Extra Veggies: Add spinach, sun-dried tomato halves, or roasted bell peppers to the sauce for more texture and nutrition.
• Cheese Boost: Sprinkle additional Parmesan or mozzarella over the top before serving for extra indulgence.
• Spicy Twist: Increase crushed red pepper flakes for a more noticeable heat that balances the creamy sauce.

Conclusion:
Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli is a perfect combination of tender chicken, rich sun-dried tomato cream sauce, and tender pasta. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that’s ideal for romantic dinners, special occasions, or anytime you want to feel like a gourmet chef at home. The creamy, flavorful sauce and perfectly cooked ravioli make each bite indulgent and satisfying, ensuring it becomes a favorite for date nights and family dinners alike.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Store separately in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

Q2: Can I use frozen ravioli?
Yes. Cook according to package instructions. Fresh or refrigerated ravioli works best for texture.

Q3: Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative and dairy-free Parmesan substitute.

Q4: Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Simply warm the cooked chicken in the sauce for 3–5 minutes until heated through.

Q5: Can I prepare this for multiple servings?
Yes. This recipe serves 4, but it can easily be doubled for more servings. Adjust skillet or pan size as needed.

Q6: What should I serve on the side?
Serve with garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete, romantic dinner.

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This Marry Me Chicken and Ravioli recipe is elegant, flavorful, and simple to prepare, making it the ultimate choice for a cozy, romantic meal at home. Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, it’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share it with you.