Marry Me Chicken: The Irresistible Creamy Chicken Dinner Everyone Adores
Marry Me Chicken has become a legend in home kitchens because it delivers everything you want in a cozy meal: tender chicken, a velvety cream sauce, sun‑dried tomatoes, garlic, and herbs that smell like a restaurant‑quality dish.
This recipe earned its charming name because many people swear it’s so good it could inspire a marriage proposal after the first bite. While that claim is playful, there’s no doubt that Marry Me Chicken is one of the most satisfying, crowd‑pleasing chicken dinners you can make on a weeknight or for a special occasion. If you love simple ingredients that transform into big flavor, this dish belongs in your regular rotation.
You can pair it with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad, such as a vibrant panzanella salad, to round out the meal. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make classic Marry Me Chicken, adapt it for different diets, fix common mistakes, and turn leftovers into brand‑new meals, all while keeping the cooking process clear, relaxed, and enjoyable.
Table of Contents
What Is Marry Me Chicken? Origins, Flavor & Appeal
The Story Behind Marry Me Chicken
Marry Me Chicken is a creamy skillet chicken recipe that exploded in popularity on social media and food blogs. It typically features pan‑seared chicken breasts simmered in a rich sauce made with heavy cream, chicken broth, sun‑dried tomatoes, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and herbs like thyme or basil.
The dish tastes luxurious but comes together quickly in one pan, which is a major reason cooks return to it over and over. While no official chef invented Marry Me Chicken, it likely evolved from Italian‑inspired creamy Tuscan chicken dishes. Over time, home cooks added their own twists, and the playful name stuck because people joked that one bite could make someone fall in love.
Though the name is fun, the real magic of Marry Me Chicken lies in its balance: salty Parmesan, tangy sun‑dried tomatoes, sweet cream, and savory chicken. It feels special enough for date night but easy enough for a Tuesday where you still want something better than basic baked chicken.
Why Marry Me Chicken Stands Out From Other Creamy Chicken Dishes
Many creamy chicken recipes feel heavy or bland, but Marry Me Chicken stands out because it layers flavor thoughtfully instead of just relying on cream. First, you brown the chicken in a hot pan, which creates a golden crust and flavorful browned bits on the bottom of the skillet.
Those bits, called fond, dissolve into the sauce as you add garlic, broth, and cream, giving the dish depth you can’t get from simply simmering chicken in liquid. Then sun‑dried tomatoes bring a bright, slightly acidic punch that cuts through the richness so every bite feels balanced rather than cloying. Parmesan adds nuttiness and umami, while herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil provide a fresh, aromatic finish.
The texture also matters. If cooked correctly, the chicken stays juicy and tender, and the sauce coats each piece instead of separating or becoming greasy. Because the recipe uses familiar ingredients and straightforward steps, even newer cooks can serve a dish that tastes like a restaurant entrée without complicated techniques.
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The Best Marry Me Chicken Recipe for a Delicious Dinner Transformation
- Total Time: 40 min
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Marry Me Chicken is a creamy skillet chicken dinner made with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, parmesan, and herbs. This romantic, restaurant-style recipe comes together in one pan and is perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Season chicken with salt and pepper
2. Sear chicken in hot skillet with olive oil until golden on both sides
3. Remove chicken and sauté garlic with red pepper flakes
4. Deglaze pan with chicken broth, scraping browned bits
5. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, cream, and herbs
6. Add parmesan and simmer gently until sauce thickens
7. Return chicken to pan and simmer until cooked through
8. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve
Notes
Use chicken thighs for juicier results
Serve with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes
Add spinach at the end for extra greens
Store leftovers in airtight container up to 3 days
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 30 min
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American / Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: approx. 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
Core Ingredients for Classic Marry Me Chicken
Essential Ingredients and What They Do
The success of Marry Me Chicken depends on a handful of core ingredients, each playing a clear role in flavor and texture. You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, salt, pepper, garlic, red pepper flakes, butter or olive oil, chicken broth, heavy cream, grated Parmesan, and sun‑dried tomatoes packed in oil.
Chicken provides the protein and the base for the dish, so good seasoning from the start is critical. Salt enhances every other ingredient, while black pepper and a little red pepper flake introduce mild heat that keeps the cream from tasting flat. Garlic infuses the sauce with aroma, and the fat (butter or oil from sun‑dried tomatoes) helps you sear the chicken to a deep golden brown. Chicken broth thins the sauce while adding savory flavor, and heavy cream gives it that lush, silky texture.
Parmesan thickens the sauce and adds saltiness, so you should taste before adding more salt at the end. Sun‑dried tomatoes bring their tangy, concentrated tomato flavor plus a little chewiness that contrasts nicely with tender chicken and creamy sauce.
Ingredient Quality Tips and Simple Swaps
Because Marry Me Chicken relies on simple ingredients, quality matters. Choose chicken pieces that are similar in size so they cook evenly and stay juicy. Pat them dry before seasoning to help them sear properly. For the sun‑dried tomatoes, select a jar packed in olive oil rather than dry-packed if possible. The flavored oil can replace or supplement your regular cooking oil and carries additional tomato and herb notes into the sauce.
With Parmesan, use freshly grated cheese from a block rather than pre‑shredded, which often contains anti‑caking agents that can make sauces grainy. Heavy cream works best because it resists curdling and delivers a stable, smooth sauce; half‑and‑half or milk tend to separate unless you adjust the method.
However, you can swap chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer darker, more forgiving meat that stays moist. You can also add baby spinach at the end for color and extra nutrients, or substitute Italian seasoning for individual herbs in a pinch. Small ingredient upgrades like these turn a simple pan of Marry Me Chicken into something that feels elevated yet still easy.
Step‑by‑Step: How to Make Marry Me Chicken
Searing the Chicken for Maximum Flavor
The first step in Marry Me Chicken is searing the chicken properly, and this step sets the foundation for everything else. Start by patting your chicken breasts or thighs very dry with paper towels. This simple step prevents steaming and encourages browning. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and a light sprinkle of garlic powder if you like.
Heat a large skillet over medium‑high heat and add a mix of olive oil and a little butter for flavor. When the fat shimmers and a piece of chicken sizzles on contact, place the chicken in the pan without crowding. Let it cook undisturbed for several minutes until a golden crust forms. Resist the urge to move it too early, because that crust not only tastes amazing but also helps seal in juices.
Flip the chicken and sear the second side until browned. It doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet; you’ll finish it in the sauce. Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep the pan on the burner because all those browned bits stuck to the bottom will power your sauce.
Building the Creamy Sun‑Dried Tomato Sauce
With the chicken seared, lower the heat to medium and, if needed, add a bit more oil from the sun‑dried tomato jar. Add minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute, making sure it doesn’t burn. Immediately pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up the browned bits with a wooden spoon.
This step dissolves flavorful fond into the liquid, creating a savory base for your Marry Me Chicken sauce. Next, stir in chopped sun‑dried tomatoes and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Let this mixture simmer for a couple of minutes to soften the tomatoes. Now add heavy cream and stir until the sauce looks uniform and silky. Reduce the heat to low, then sprinkle in grated Parmesan gradually, stirring as it melts.
Avoid boiling at this stage, because high heat can cause the sauce to break. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Finally, return the seared chicken and any juices to the pan, nestling the pieces into the sauce. Simmer gently until the chicken reaches 165°F internally and the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Cooking Tips, Time, and Temperature for Perfect Results
Avoiding Dry Chicken and Broken Sauce
Marry Me Chicken tastes best when the chicken stays juicy and the sauce remains smooth and glossy. Overcooking is the main enemy here. Chicken breasts, especially, can turn dry if left simmering too long. To prevent this, use an instant-read thermometer and start checking for doneness after 8–10 minutes of gentle simmering in the sauce.
Pull the chicken as soon as it hits 165°F at the thickest point, then let it rest in the warm sauce off the heat for a few minutes. That brief rest allows juices to redistribute. To keep the sauce from breaking, maintain a low simmer after adding cream and Parmesan.
Vigorous boiling can cause the fat and liquid to separate. Also, add cheese gradually and stir constantly so it melts evenly. If your sauce looks too thick, whisk in a splash of warm broth or cream. If it seems too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes, stirring often, until it reaches your desired consistency.
Timing the Dish and Planning Sides
The full process for Marry Me Chicken usually takes about 30–40 minutes from start to finish, making it realistic even on a busy evening. You can use this timeline to coordinate side dishes so everything finishes together. While you sear the chicken and build the sauce, start boiling water for pasta or preparing a simple grain like quinoa or rice.
Because the sauce is rich, a fresh, crunchy salad pairs very well. You might plan a bright option like a citrus fennel avocado winter salad to cut through the creaminess. Roasted vegetables also work beautifully and can roast in the oven while your chicken simmers on the stove. If you entertain, you can even sear the chicken ahead, prepare the sauce up to the cream stage, and finish everything with cheese and chicken right before serving, which keeps the texture ideal.
With a bit of planning, Marry Me Chicken becomes a flexible centerpiece around which you can build a complete, well‑timed meal.
Serving Ideas: What to Eat With Marry Me Chicken
Best Carbs and Grains to Soak Up the Sauce
Because the sauce in Marry Me Chicken is the star, you want something that can soak it up without competing too much. Pasta is the most popular choice, especially long shapes like fettuccine or linguine that tangle nicely with the creamy tomato sauce.
You can slice the chicken breast and serve it over the noodles, spooning extra sauce over the top. If you prefer something lighter, fluffy white rice or brown rice works just as well, absorbing the sauce and making every grain flavorful. Mashed potatoes provide a cozy, comforting base that turns the dish into pure comfort food.
For a slightly nutty, wholesome twist, quinoa or farro can replace traditional carbs without sacrificing satisfaction. These grains hold up well to a thick sauce and bring extra protein and fiber to the plate. Simply taste your sauce and adjust seasoning so it stays bold enough to flavor whichever base you choose.
Salads, Vegetables, and Lighter Pairings
Balancing the richness of Marry Me Chicken with fresher sides keeps the meal from feeling too heavy. A crisp salad with vinaigrette cuts through the cream and refreshes the palate between bites. You might choose a colorful kale salad recipe with crunchy add‑ins, a simple green salad, or a vibrant cranberry apple quinoa winter salad to add tart and sweet elements.
Roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts work beautifully because their caramelized edges stand up to the sauce. If you want to stay in one‑pan territory, you can stir in a few handfuls of baby spinach or chopped kale into the sauce at the end of cooking until just wilted. This adds color and extra nutrients without extra dishes.
For a lighter meal, skip starchy sides altogether and serve Marry Me Chicken over a bed of sautéed zucchini ribbons or cauliflower rice. This approach lets you enjoy all the flavor of the creamy sauce while keeping the overall plate more vegetable‑forward and suitable for guests who prefer lower‑carb options.
Variations: Healthier, Dairy‑Free, and Kid‑Friendly Marry Me Chicken
Lightened‑Up and High‑Protein Spins
If you love the taste of Marry Me Chicken but want a lighter version, you can adjust the recipe while keeping its essential character. One approach uses a mix of evaporated milk and a smaller amount of heavy cream to reduce fat while maintaining creaminess.
You can also thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold broth) instead of relying entirely on cream and cheese. Another trick is to use chicken tenderloins or thinly sliced breasts, which cook faster and can be portioned more easily for calorie control.
Pairing the dish with a high‑fiber side such as quinoa, lentils, or a warm lentil and roasted vegetable salad increases satiety without adding heavy cream. To boost protein further, you might reduce the amount of pasta and add extra chicken or toss in chickpeas toward the end of simmering for a creamy, protein‑rich sauce that still feels indulgent but aligns better with everyday healthy eating goals.
Dairy‑Free, Gluten‑Free, and Family‑Friendly Options
To make Marry Me Chicken dairy‑free, choose full‑fat coconut milk or a rich, unsweetened cashew cream in place of heavy cream. Use a dairy‑free Parmesan‑style cheese or nutritional yeast to provide savory depth, and watch the seasoning because some plant‑based cheeses contain different salt levels.
Be sure any broth you use is clearly labeled gluten‑free, and skip dredging the chicken in flour, or use a gluten‑free flour blend, if your original recipe calls for it. For a kid‑friendly Marry Me Chicken, dial back the red pepper flakes and chop sun‑dried tomatoes very finely so they blend into the sauce instead of appearing as large pieces that picky eaters might avoid.
You can also serve the sauce on the side of plain chicken for younger diners who prefer to dip rather than eat everything mixed together. With these small shifts, you keep the spirit of Marry Me Chicken while making sure everyone at the table can enjoy it, regardless of dietary needs or age.
Nutrition and Ingredient Science Behind Marry Me Chicken
Understanding the Nutritional Profile
Marry Me Chicken is naturally high in protein thanks to the chicken, and the sauce adds fat and calories primarily from heavy cream, cheese, and oil. While this makes the dish satisfying, it also means portion control can matter if you watch your intake. On average, a serving with chicken and sauce (without pasta) can range between 400–600 calories depending on how much cream and cheese you use.
However, the fat from cream helps increase satiety, so many people feel full with a moderate portion. You can make the meal more balanced by pairing it with fiber‑rich sides such as whole grains or salads. For example, starting with a brussels sprout salad or other crunchy vegetables provides volume and nutrients without many extra calories.
Lean chicken breasts keep saturated fat lower than a comparable dish made with dark meat plus bacon or sausage. Sun‑dried tomatoes contribute antioxidants like lycopene, and herbs bring polyphenols, adding subtle health benefits along with flavor.
How Cream, Cheese, and Tomatoes Work Together
The science of why Marry Me Chicken tastes so appealing lies in how its ingredients interact. Heavy cream contains a high percentage of fat, which carries flavor, softens harsh edges, and gives the sauce a smooth mouthfeel.
Parmesan cheese adds glutamates, compounds responsible for umami, the savory taste that makes dishes feel deeply satisfying. These glutamates enhance the perception of other flavors in the sauce, including garlic and herbs. Sun‑dried tomatoes concentrate the natural sugars and acids of tomatoes, so they bring intense sweet‑tart notes that cut through the richness of all that dairy.
This contrast prevents the sauce from tasting one‑dimensional. Additionally, browning the chicken triggers the Maillard reaction, creating complex flavors and aromas. When you deglaze the pan with broth, you lift those Maillard compounds into the sauce, amplifying depth. In combination, these processes craft a dish that hits salty, creamy, savory, and tangy notes all at once, which explains why so many people immediately fall for Marry Me Chicken after just a few bites.
Storing, Reheating, and Using Leftover Marry Me Chicken
How to Store and Reheat Without Losing Creaminess
Because Marry Me Chicken’s sauce includes cream and cheese, proper storage and reheating will help you avoid a greasy or separated texture later. Cool leftovers to room temperature within two hours of cooking, then transfer them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three to four days.
When you’re ready to reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a small saucepan or skillet over low heat. Add a splash of milk, cream, or broth to loosen the sauce, then warm gently, stirring often. Avoid high heat or boiling, which encourages separation. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave on medium power in short intervals, stirring between bursts.
Cover the dish to prevent splattering and to keep moisture in. If the sauce looks slightly broken, whisk in a bit more warm cream or broth and keep stirring over very low heat until it becomes smoother. With careful reheating, leftovers stay just as enjoyable as the original meal.
Creative Ways to Repurpose Leftovers
Leftover Marry Me Chicken offers endless opportunities for new meals. Shred or slice the chicken and toss it with cooked pasta, adding a splash of pasta cooking water to re‑emulsify the sauce into a silky coating. You can also spoon warmed chicken and sauce over toasted crusty bread for an open‑faced sandwich or serve it inside a warm pita with fresh greens to add texture and freshness.
If you enjoy bowls, place leftover chicken over rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice, then top with extra herbs and a squeeze of lemon for brightness. Leftovers also make an excellent filling for a quick flatbread pizza: spread the sauce and chicken over a par‑baked crust, sprinkle with a little mozzarella, and bake until bubbly.
For a lighter lunch, mix chopped leftover chicken with a few spoonfuls of sauce and serve it over a bed of mixed greens. Pair that salad with a refreshing drink, like something from your favorite wellness shot juice recipes, to balance the richness and create a satisfying, repurposed meal.
Common Mistakes and Expert Fixes for Marry Me Chicken
Troubleshooting Texture, Seasoning, and Doneness
Even with a straightforward recipe like Marry Me Chicken, a few pitfalls can appear, but most are easy to correct. If your sauce turns grainy, the most common cause is adding Parmesan too quickly or at too high a heat. Next time, reduce the heat to low, add cheese gradually, and stir constantly.
If the sauce tastes bland, you likely under‑salted your chicken at the searing stage or didn’t compensate for low‑sodium broth. Remember that cream mutes flavors, so after adding it, always taste and adjust with salt, pepper, and perhaps more red pepper flakes. If the chicken seems rubbery, it may be slightly overcooked, especially if you used thin cutlets.
An instant‑read thermometer prevents this, ensuring you pull the chicken at 165°F. Too thick sauce can be loosened with warm broth or cream, while a watery sauce benefits from a few extra minutes of gentle simmering to reduce. By paying attention to these details, you’ll achieve consistent, restaurant‑level results.
Advanced Tips to Elevate Your Marry Me Chicken
Once you master the basic Marry Me Chicken technique, a few advanced touches can take the dish even further. For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken briefly with olive oil, garlic, and herbs before cooking; even 30 minutes helps season the meat more thoroughly.
You can also deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding the broth, letting the alcohol cook off to leave a subtle complexity. Toasting the garlic briefly with a teaspoon of tomato paste intensifies the tomato base and gives the sauce a richer color. Stirring in a spoonful of mascarpone cheese at the end adds extra silkiness.
For presentation, slice the chicken on a bias and fan it out over your chosen side, spooning sauce on top and finishing with fresh herbs and a final dusting of Parmesan. These upgrades remain simple but make Marry Me Chicken feel ready for a dinner party while keeping the comfort and ease that made you love it in the first place.
FAQ: Marry Me Chicken
What is Marry Me Chicken made of?
Marry Me Chicken is typically made of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs cooked in a rich, creamy sauce. The base ingredients include olive oil or butter, minced garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and sun‑dried tomatoes. Seasonings often feature salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and herbs like thyme, basil, or oregano. Some versions add a bit of tomato paste or spinach. The chicken is seared first to develop flavor, then simmered in the sauce until tender and fully cooked. The result is a savory, slightly tangy, and very creamy dish that pairs well with pasta, rice, or vegetables.
Why is it called Marry Me Chicken?
The name “Marry Me Chicken” comes from the idea that this dish tastes so delicious it could inspire a marriage proposal after one bite. Food bloggers and home cooks started using the playful name to highlight just how irresistible and romantic the recipe feels. It combines cozy comfort with restaurant‑style richness, making it perfect for date night or a special at‑home dinner. Over time, the name stuck, especially on social media, where videos showing reactions to the first bite reinforced the legend. Although it’s meant humorously, the name does capture how memorable and impressive this creamy chicken dish can be when cooked well and served with care.
How do you thicken Marry Me Chicken sauce?
To thicken Marry Me Chicken sauce, allow it to simmer gently uncovered after adding the cream and cheese. As some liquid evaporates, the sauce naturally thickens. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. Grated Parmesan also acts as a thickener, so add it gradually until you reach your preferred consistency. If the sauce still feels too thin, you can whisk in a small slurry made from 1–2 teaspoons of cornstarch mixed with cold broth, then simmer until it thickens. Be careful not to boil vigorously, as this can cause separation. Conversely, if the sauce becomes too thick, thin it out with a splash of warm broth or cream until it coats the back of a spoon smoothly.
Can I make Marry Me Chicken ahead of time?
You can partially make Marry Me Chicken ahead of time for convenience. One method is to sear the chicken and prepare the sauce base (broth, garlic, sun‑dried tomatoes, and spices) in advance, then cool and refrigerate them separately. Shortly before serving, rewarm the sauce, add cream and Parmesan, and nestle the chicken back in to finish cooking. This approach keeps the sauce from over‑reducing and prevents the chicken from drying out. Fully cooked leftovers also reheat well if warmed gently on low heat with a splash of broth or cream. While the dish tastes best freshly made, planning a few components ahead can make entertaining or busy weeknights much easier without sacrificing flavor.
How long does Marry Me Chicken last in the fridge?
Marry Me Chicken typically lasts three to four days in the refrigerator when stored properly. Cool the dish to room temperature within two hours of cooking, then transfer chicken and sauce to an airtight container. Keep it in the coldest part of your fridge, not in the door. When reheating, do so gently on low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave at medium power, adding a bit of liquid if the sauce seems too thick. If you notice any off smells, discoloration, or separation that doesn’t smooth out with gentle stirring, discard the leftovers. For longer storage, you can freeze portions, although the cream sauce may change texture slightly after thawing.
Can you freeze Marry Me Chicken?
You can freeze Marry Me Chicken, but it helps to manage expectations about the sauce texture. Cream‑based sauces sometimes separate or become slightly grainy after freezing and thawing. To freeze, cool the chicken and sauce completely, then portion them into freezer‑safe, airtight containers, leaving a little headspace. Label with the date and use within two to three months for best quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. When reheating, warm gently over low heat, stirring often, and add a splash of cream or broth to help re‑emulsify the sauce. While the texture might not be as silky as fresh, the flavor typically remains delicious, making frozen Marry Me Chicken a convenient future meal.
What should I serve with Marry Me Chicken?
Marry Me Chicken pairs well with sides that soak up the creamy sauce and provide balance. Popular options include pasta—such as fettuccine, linguine, or penne—or a simple bed of rice, mashed potatoes, or polenta. For a fresher contrast, serve it alongside a crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans. A vibrant grain salad, like a quinoa or kale‑based dish, adds fiber and texture. You can also enjoy it with crusty bread to mop up the sauce. Combining a starch, a vegetable, and the rich chicken creates a complete meal that feels both indulgent and well‑rounded.
Conclusion: Why Marry Me Chicken Deserves a Spot in Your Rotation
Marry Me Chicken combines simple ingredients, straightforward techniques, and big flavor in a way that fits both special occasions and weeknight dinners. Its creamy sun‑dried tomato sauce, tender chicken, and fragrant herbs create a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable, adaptable to different diets, and easy to pair with salads, grains, or vegetables.
Once you understand the key steps proper searing, gentle simmering, and balanced seasoning you can customize the recipe endlessly and even repurpose leftovers into fresh, exciting meals. If you enjoy building menus, you might serve this dish with a crisp strawberry banana smoothie for a fun, refreshing contrast. Whether you cook for yourself, your family, or someone special, Marry Me Chicken delivers consistent, memorable results that justify its romantic name and make it a long‑term favorite in your kitchen.
For more seasonal salad inspirations, check out my Pinterest.