Looking for a dish that will sweep you off your feet? Say hello to the "Marry Me Chicken Salad"! This delightful recipe combines tender chicken breasts, juicy cherry tomatoes, and gooey mozzarella cheese, all drizzled with creamy ranch dressing and topped with fresh basil. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a romantic date night, this dish is not only incredibly delicious but also quick to prepare—ready in just 30 minutes! Get ready to impress your loved ones and maybe even pop the question with this irresistible meal!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 chicken breasts, 1 cup of cherry tomatoes (halved), 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup of chopped basil, and 1/2 cup of ranch dressing.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken.
- While the oven is heating, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides for flavor.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Pour the ranch dressing evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.
- Sprinkle the halved cherry tomatoes and shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the chicken, followed by the chopped basil for added flavor and freshness.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- After baking, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- To serve, place each chicken breast on a plate, spooning the melted cheese, tomatoes, and ranch dressing over the top. Garnish with extra basil if desired.
- This dish pairs well with a side of mixed greens or crusty bread for a complete meal. Enjoy your Marry Me Chicken Salad!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can marinate the chicken breasts in the ranch dressing for a few hours or overnight for extra flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Make sure to season your chicken well with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh basil and ripe cherry tomatoes. They really make a difference in this salad!
- Check the Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfect doneness.
- Customize It: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap the mozzarella for another cheese like feta or goat cheese for a unique twist.
- Serve with Sides: This chicken salad pairs wonderfully with a side of mixed greens, crusty bread, or even over a bed of quinoa for a hearty meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 110mg
