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Home » Recipes » Valentine's Day

Last Updated: Jan 15, 2024 by Angela Latimer · Leave a Comment

Family Dinner Ideas For Valentine's Day

Jump to Recipe
Best family dinner ideas for Valentine's day pin with a three image collage featuring chicken parmesan, lobster risotto, and short ribs.

These family dinner ideas for Valentine's Day are the perfect way to enjoy a nice, home-cooked meal with the entire family! Valentine's Day isn't only for couples- you can still enjoy an outstanding dinner on this special occasion, even with the kids! These recipes are suitable for at least 4 people, packed with flavor, and a great way to show your family how much you love them!

For more menu planning help, see my Valentine's Day dinner ideas or dinner for two recipes. My bacon wrapped beef tenderloin or lobster risotto are two personal favorites for sharing with my family!

Best family dinner ideas for Valentine's Day dinner together featuring four of my favorite recipes in a square collage.
Jump to:
  • Valentine's Day Dinner Recipes For The Whole Family
  • 1. Chicken Marsala
  • 2. Lasagna
  • 3. Round Roast Pot Roast
  • 4. Pork Tenderloin with Mushroom Gravy
  • 5. Smoked Salmon Fettuccine Alfredo
  • 6. Sheet Pan Steak Fajitas
  • 7. Crockpot BBQ Beef Shortribs
  • 8. Biscuit Chicken Pot Pie
  • 9. Lobster Risotto
  • 10. Baked Spaghetti & Meatballs
  • 11. Shrimp Scampi
  • 12. Italian Chicken Pastina Soup
  • 13. Chicken Parmesan
  • 14. Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas
  • 15. Pan Seared Lamb Chops
  • 16. Spaghetti Bolognese
  • 17. Marry Me Chicken
  • 18. Sirloin Steak Tips
  • 19. Bacon Wrapped Beef Tenderloin Roast
  • 20. Million Dollar Baked Chicken Breasts
  • 21. Panko-Crusted Baked Flounder
  • 22. Pan-Seared Scallops
  • 23. Creamy Prawn Pasta
  • 24. Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon
  • 25. Air Fryer Prime Rib
  • 26. Chicken Schnitzel
  • 27. Spinach-Stuffed Chicken Breasts
  • 28. Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
  • 29. Creamy Chicken Minnesota Wild Rice Soup
  • 30. Frutti di Mare
  • 31. Whole Roasted Rabbit
  • 💭 Tips For Making Valentine's Day Dinner For The Whole Family
  • ❔ How Can I Involve My Kids In Making The Valentine's Day Dinner
  • ❔ Are There Any Special Ingredients That Symbolize Valentine's Day
  • ❔ What Are Some Of The Best Valentine’s Day Chicken Dinner Recipes
  • 💖 Sweet Valentine's Day Treats
  • 📖 Recipe Card
  • Family Dinner Ideas For Valentine's Day: Marry Me Chicken (+Other Recipe Ideas!)
  • 💬 Comments & Reviews

Valentine's Day Dinner Recipes For The Whole Family

Valentine's Day is known for being a holiday where you spend time with your significant other as a couple. However, sometimes you want to include the kids in your special dinner!

Rather than attempt to go out to eat on one of the busiest days of the year in the restaurant industry, you can easily make an out-of-this-world dinner right at home! No matter which one of these tasty meals you choose, your entire family will certainly feel the love!

1. Chicken Marsala

This classic Italian dish is perfect for showing your family how much you care! Golden chicken breasts are smothered in a delectable marsala wine sauce for a dish that no one will forget!

Chicken Marsala
Chicken marsala is on Italian menus everywhere and you'll be surprised just how easy this recipe is to make at home! Chicken breasts are pounded thin and pan fried until golden-brown then slathered in mushrooms and an incredible marsala wine sauce. It's as delicious as it sounds, and now you can make restaurant-quality chicken marsala from the comfort of your own kitchen!
Check out this recipe
Best chicken marsala recipe closeup image on the dished entree served over egg noodles.

2. Lasagna

Lasagna is a well-loved classic dish perfect for the whole family- even if you have some picky eaters! This kid-approved dinner is simple to make, hearty, and ridiculously delicious. Whip up some tasty garlic bread to pair with it, and you are good to go!

For a vegetarian version, check out my sauteed spinach lasagna!

Lasagna
A homemade lasagna full of tender noodles and a hearty meat sauce covered in melted cheese is one of the best comfort foods you can make. All the time you spend making it will be more than worth it when you see your family lining up for seconds.
Check out this recipe
Square image of the sliced meat lasagna with red sauce on white plate.

3. Round Roast Pot Roast

There are so many varieties of roasts out there, and you can't go wrong with any of them! With this recipe, you'll only spend about 10 minutes preparing your dinner while the rest of the time is spent in the oven!

It's also loaded with carrots, potatoes, and onions, so you won't even need to make a side dish!

Round Roast Pot Roast
This round roast pot roast recipe is an easy way to get a hearty roast dinner on the table any day of the week! With lots of tender potatoes, carrots, and onions, this one-pot meal is always a family favorite. Best of all, there are only 10 minutes of prep time and the oven does the rest of the work!
Check out this recipe
Square image of round roast pot roast.

4. Pork Tenderloin with Mushroom Gravy

These tasty pork medallions are pan-seared and smothered in a delicious mushroom gravy! It's a versatile dish that can easily be paired with your family's favorite side dishes!

Pork Tenderloin with Mushroom Sage Gravy
This pork tenderloin with mushroom gravy is pan-seared to perfection and then combined with the delectable pan gravy! Serve your perfect pork medallions with some fresh sage for a meal that is wonderful as a weekend family meal, special occasion dinner, or for date night! It's an easy and delicious pork dinner that everyone will enjoy!
Check out this recipe
Plated pork tenderloin with mushroom gravy with bacon and fresh sage.

5. Smoked Salmon Fettuccine Alfredo

Fettuccine alfredo is an incredibly popular dish for Valentine's Day! Tender fettuccine noodles are coated in a creamy homemade alfredo sauce and tossed with smoked salmon! Not only is this dish delicious, but it is super quick and easy to throw together!

Not a fan of salmon? You can always try out some chicken alfredo or shrimp alfredo!

Smoked Salmon Fettuccine Alfredo
This richly flavorful Smoked Salmon Fettuccine Alfredo is a shining example of simple ingredients combining to make extraordinary dishes! All of the basics are here for an outstanding fettuccine alfredo, but the smoked salmon takes the depth of flavor to new levels! Truly the easiest of meals to take from a comfort food family favorite to a "Wow!" meal!
Check out this recipe
Closeup of the plated smoked salmon fettuccine alfredo.

6. Sheet Pan Steak Fajitas

Steak fajitas can easily be customized with your favorite toppings and mix-ins! Try out some roasted peppers and onions, guacamole, or salsa roja!

Of course, chicken fajitas or shrimp fajitas are just as tasty!

Sheet Pan Steak Fajitas
These sheet pan steak fajitas are filled with amazingly tasty and tender pieces of beef with lots of roasted vegetables! Use your family's favorite fajita veggies like green bell peppers, red and orange bell peppers, onion, and jalapeno. Top them off with a little cilantro, lime juice, and seasoning for the perfect weeknight dinner!
Check out this recipe
Square image of sheet pan steak fajitas.

7. Crockpot BBQ Beef Shortribs

Breaking out the slow cooker is a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious dinner without spending forever in the kitchen! Simply prep the ribs in the morning and then leave them to cook during the day. It's as easy as it gets!

Crockpot BBQ Beef Short Ribs
These crockpot BBQ beef short ribs are melt-in-your-mouth tender, juicy, and loaded with tons of meaty flavor. In fact, it is an easy-to-make meal that uses common household ingredients and only takes a few minutes to prepare. Easy, effortless, and delicious - what more could you ask for?
Check out this recipe
Close up square image of crockpot beef short ribs on a white serving plate.

8. Biscuit Chicken Pot Pie

This comforting and warm meal is perfect for a cozy night in on Valentine's Day! Tender chicken and veggies are coated in a rich, creamy sauce and topped with homemade biscuits! It's so delicious that everyone in the family will be coming back for seconds!

Biscuit Chicken Pot Pie
This biscuit chicken pot pie is an incredibly hearty casserole that makes a fabulous family dinner any day of the week! It combines tender pieces of chicken in classic pot pie filling with homemade cream biscuits! My biscuit-topped version of the well-loved comfort food is an easy dinner that never disappoints!
Check out this recipe
Overhead of biscuit chicken pot pie in casserole dish.

>>>>See all of my recipes here<<<<

9. Lobster Risotto

Risotto is creamy, rich, and sophisticated. Plus, it is easy to customize it to match your preferred flavors!

This lobster risotto is one of my all-time favorites. However, you could also enjoy some butternut squash, prawn, crab, Parmesan, pea and mint, or mushroom varieties!

If you've never made risotto before, check out my guide on how to cook risotto! You'll be an expert in no time!

Lobster Risotto
There's nothing better than this creamy lobster risotto made at home that copies the Gordon Ramsay Hell's Kitchen recipe! I have always loved the look (and tantalizing taste!) of the creamy risotto rice dish and have spent MANY hours perfecting this popular copycat recipe for you to make at home!
Check out this recipe
Creamy lobster risotto garnished with lobster claw and chives.
Tasty family dinner ideas for Valentine's day in a side-by-side image of three best dinners to make.

10. Baked Spaghetti & Meatballs

This incredibly easy casserole is loaded with noodles, meatballs, cheese, and sauce! It is kid-friendly, delicious, and perfect for even a busy night, as it only takes a few minutes to assemble!

Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs
Baked spaghetti and meatballs is an easy casserole with layers of spaghetti coated in sauce, cheese, and meatballs! This tasty comfort food dinner can be loaded with cheesy goodness to please your entire family. Plus, it's the perfect use of leftovers from a spaghetti dinner!
Check out this recipe
Large square closeup image of baked spaghetti and meatballs in a clear casserole dish baked with fresh baby mozzarella and garnished with genovese basil leaves.

11. Shrimp Scampi

This dish is one of my favorite quick and easy shrimp recipes! Succulent shrimp and pasta are tossed in a sauce made from butter, lemon, and white wine.

Did I mention that it only takes 15 minutes to make?

Shrimp Scampi
A fantastic classic dish with tender shrimp in a lemony garlic sauce!
Check out this recipe
Shrimp Scampi

12. Italian Chicken Pastina Soup

If you're in the mood for some cozy soup this Valentine's Day, you'll have to check out this recipe! It's an Italian version of chicken noodle soup packed with small pasta, chicken, and veggies.

Italian Chicken Pastina Soup
This chicken pastina soup is a soul-warming, homemade soup that's as delicious as any traditional chicken noodle soup! The fine pasta combines perfectly with rich broth, tender chicken, and vegetables! It's the perfect dish to make when you are craving Italian flavors or a hearty meal!
Check out this recipe
Square image showing Italian chicken pastina soup.

13. Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan is a family favorite meal in my house! You can choose to either pan-fry or bake your chicken; it's delicious!

Crispy breaded chicken is topped with melted Parmesan cheese and served alongside your favorite pasta. Discover what side dishes you can serve with chicken Parmesan right here!

Alternatively, you could try out my chicken Parmesan sandwich or chicken Parmesan pizza for a fun and tasty twist!

Chicken Parmesan (Chicken Parmigiana)
This chicken Parmesan (or chicken Parmigiana) is a classic Italian entree featuring breaded chicken breast fried and then baked! The Parmesan breaded chicken breast combines mozzarella, marinara, and pasta for a simple and complete meal!
Check out this recipe
vertical image showing an overhead view of the chicken parmesan served over a bed of thin spaghetti pasta with marinara sauce and two Panko and Parmesan crusted chicken breast cutlets with melted mozzarella on the center of each cut garnished with a few fresh leaves of baby Genovese basil on grey mottled background

14. Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas

Enchiladas are a great way to serve a large family! These sour cream chicken enchiladas are rich, cheesy, and completely packed with flavor! Serve them with Mexican rice and beans for a complete and hearty meal.

Of course, there are many different ways to make enchiladas, and they can easily be customized to your family's needs. Try out my beef enchiladas, cheese enchiladas, or even shrimp enchiladas!

Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas
Sour cream chicken enchiladas with green enchilada sauce are creamy, cheesy, and full of Mexican flavor that the whole family will enjoy! This enchilada recipe is made with no condensed soup, but don't worry; there is no shortage of flavor! The combination of taco seasoning and sour cream with melted cheese and green sauce gives these sour cream chicken enchiladas all the flavor they need!
Check out this recipe
Square image showing plate of sour cream enchiladas.

15. Pan Seared Lamb Chops

You can easily enjoy these gourmet, sophisticated lamb chops in the comfort of your own home! They are quick to make and only use a few ingredients for a simple yet elegant dinner!

Pan Seared Lamb Chops
Nothing says gourmet like some juicy, perfectly pan seared lamb chops, and now you can have restaurant-quality lamb chops at home! With minimal ingredients and minimal prep time, you'll be amazed at how delicious homemade lamb chops can be!
Check out this recipe
Square image of lamb chops in a cast iron pan with garlic and rosemary.

16. Spaghetti Bolognese

Is there anything more classic, traditional, or easy than spaghetti bolognese? It's a dish easily enjoyed by even the most picky eaters- so it is perfect for the whole family!

Additionally, it is super easy to scale the recipe up if you need to make more for an extra large group!

Spaghetti Bolognese
Spaghetti Bolognese is a true Italian classic full of al dente spaghetti, meaty red sauce, fresh veggies, and a blend of Italian herbs! Throw in a little wine for flavor, and you have an easy weeknight dinner you'll want to make again and again!
Check out this recipe
Wide image of the plated spaghetti bolognese with greens in the background.

17. Marry Me Chicken

Perfectly cooked chicken breasts are coated in a creamy Parmesan sauce. Serve it with some tasty buttered noodles for a complete meal!

Plus, it is all made in just one pan, so you won't have a ton of dishes to clean up!

Marry Me Chicken
Marry Me chicken is an incredibly easy one-skillet meal that's quick enough to make for dinner any day of the week! Thinly sliced chicken breast is covered with a creamy Parmesan and sun-dried tomato sauce that is so delicious you'll want to get down on one knee in front of whoever cooked it. Next time you're trying to plan dinner, give Marry Me Chicken a try and watch your family savor every bite!
Check out this recipe
Wide image of marry me chicken over pasta in a white dish.

18. Sirloin Steak Tips

These buttery sirloin steak tips are perfect for steak-loving families without you having to cook each family member an individual steak. You can serve your steak tips over rice or pasta or pair them with a couple of vegetable side dishes and a potato side dish or two!

Pan Seared Sirloin Tips (Steak Bites)
Sirloin steak tips, aka steak bites, can serve as an appetizer or main dish
Check out this recipe
Pan seared sirloin steak tips in the pan after searing with rosemary, butter, and garnished with parsley.

19. Bacon Wrapped Beef Tenderloin Roast

Beef tenderloin is one of the most tender, succulent, and flavorful cuts of beef you can buy! Now, wrap this high-quality roast in bacon, and you have a Pinterest-worthy roast beef dinner your family will rave about!

Bacon Wrapped Beef Tenderloin Roast
My bacon wrapped beef tenderloin roast is a mouthwatering way to perfectly cook up a whole beef tenderloin portion! 
Check out this recipe
Wide image of bacon wrapped beef tenderloin, sliced.

20. Million Dollar Baked Chicken Breasts

For Valentine's Day, skip the basic chicken breast recipes and go for these mouthwatering million-dollar baked chicken breasts! They're topped with 3 different types of cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions for the most amazing chicken dinner!

Million Dollar Baked Chicken Breasts
Forget bland chicken breasts, instead try my million dollar baked chicken breast that is covered in melted cheese and has tons of flavor!
Check out this recipe
Close up square image of baked million dollar chicken cut open on a plate.

>>>>See all of my recipes here<<<<

21. Panko-Crusted Baked Flounder

The flounder has a flaky texture and mildly sweet flavor that isn't overly fishy. Breaded in Panko breadcrumbs and baked until crispy, it's an easy fish recipe that everyone in the family will enjoy!

Panko Crusted Baked Flounder
My baked flounder is a fantastic combination of tender flounder fillets and a crispy Panko and Parmesan breadcrumb topping!
Check out this recipe
Closeup of the baked flounder with crispy topping.

22. Pan-Seared Scallops

As a kid, I loved seafood, and sea scallops were always an extra special treat! They pan-sear beautifully in minutes, and if your family loves seafood like mine, they will enjoy every sweet, buttery bite!

Here's what to serve with scallops for some great side dish suggestions!

Pan Seared Scallops
These pan seared scallops are super easy to make at home with a delightfully golden crust on absolutely tasty restaurant-quality scallops!
Check out this recipe
Large closeup of the pan seared scallops.

23. Creamy Prawn Pasta

Rich and creamy prawn pasta can be on the table in under 30 minutes, yet it still feels worthy of a special occasion like Valentine's Day. You could also try my creamy smoked salmon pasta or seafood pasta!

Creamy Prawn Pasta
Creamy prawn pasta is a delicious and indulgent recipe that combines tender pasta, succulent prawns, and a rich, creamy sauce!
Check out this recipe
Wide image showing creamy prawn pasta.

24. Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon

Filet mignon is a high-quality cut of steak that melts in your mouth like butter. Wrapping it in bacon makes it even more special and delicious!

Find a few steakhouse side dishes to round out your restaurant-worthy Valentine's Day dinner.

Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon
A bacon-wrapped filet mignon is elegant enough for special occasions and easy for busy weeknight dinners!
Check out this recipe
Square image of bacon wrapped filet mignon in a cast iron pan.

25. Air Fryer Prime Rib

I usually reserve prime rib for special occasions like Christmas dinner, but now that I can make it in the air fryer, Valentine's Day calls for prime rib, too! It still has that perfect golden brown crust and juicy medium-rare beef inside but in much less time than other prime rib recipes.

Air Fryer Prime Rib
Indulge in a succulent and perfectly cooked air fryer prime rib, a dish that promises to be the star of any meal! 
Check out this recipe
Wide image showing sliced air fryer prime rib.

26. Chicken Schnitzel

Chicken schnitzel is thin chicken cutlets that are breaded and fried until crispy. Kids will love them because they're like a giant chicken nugget, and you can serve them with your favorite sauces!

Chicken Schnitzel
Chicken schnitzel is a traditional German dish that features thinly pounded chicken cutlets that have been coated in breadcrumbs and fried!
Check out this recipe
Square image of a plate of chicken schnitzel.

27. Spinach-Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Juicy chicken breasts with a rich, cheesy spinach and bacon filling. It's a recipe worthy of any gourmet restaurant, but you can easily make it at home, and the results are outstanding!

Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
These spinach stuffed chicken breasts feature a cheesy filling made with cream cheese, cheddar cheese, spinach, and crispy bacon! 
Check out this recipe
Wide image of spinach stuffed chicken breasts.

28. Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

Everything you love about spaghetti but cheesier, saucier, and baked in a casserole with sweet Italian sausage! It's an effortless way to take a standard spaghetti dinner and make it memorable family favorite!

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Million dollar spaghetti casserole is an easy family dinner that features layers of al dente spaghetti, meat sauce, and creamy cheeses! 
Check out this recipe
Wide image of Million dollar spaghetti casserole.

29. Creamy Chicken Minnesota Wild Rice Soup

For most of us, Valentine's Day falls during the coldest weather of the year. A rich, warm, and hearty soup really hits the spot on chilly winter evenings, and this creamy chicken and wild rice soup is just the thing!

Pair it with some warm cloverleaf biscuits to soak up every last drop!

Creamy Chicken Minnesota Wild Rice Soup
My creamy chicken Minnesota wild rice soup is a rich and hearty chicken soup made with Minnesota wild rice, vegetables, and cream!
Check out this recipe
Creamy chicken minnesota wild rice soup in white soup bowl with spoon dipped into the bowl.

30. Frutti di Mare

Italian cuisine and pasta, in particular, are inherently romantic (maybe something to do with the spaghetti scene from Lady and the Tramp). Frutti di Mare is an elegant seafood pasta loaded with shellfish tossed in a zesty arrabbiata sauce that would make a fabulous Valentine's entree!

The sauce isn't overly spicy, but you can always opt for classic marinara sauce if the kiddos are sensitive to heat.

Frutti di Mare
Frutti di mare is a flavorful, decadent pasta dish that’s full of mussels, clams, shrimp, scallops, and squid to make this incredibly delicious seafood pasta! 
Check out this recipe
Image of frutti di mare plated on a white dish.

31. Whole Roasted Rabbit

A whole roasted rabbit with tender root vegetables is a hearty and comforting meal that will happily gather the whole family around the table. The meat is succulent and flavorful, and trying different proteins is a great way to set your Valentine's Day dinner apart from the norm.

If there are any leftovers, you can refrigerate them and make the most amazing rabbit stew later in the week!

Whole Roasted Rabbit
This whole roasted rabbit with potatoes and root vegetables is an easy and well-rounded meal that showcases the unique flavor of rabbit meat!
Check out this recipe
Wide image of a whole roasted rabbit with root vegetables.

💭 Tips For Making Valentine's Day Dinner For The Whole Family

Valentine's Day is a great opportunity to create a special and memorable family dinner! Here are some tips for choosing what to make:

  1. Heart-Shaped Dishes: See if you can get your hands on some heart-shaped pasta or roll out the pizza dough in a heart shape for a family pizza night! It's an easy way to make your everyday recipes fit the holiday theme.
  2. Cook Together: Celebrate Valentine's Day by cooking dinner and baking a dessert as a family! This is a great activity the whole family can participate in without having to deal with the hustle and bustle of going out on a busy evening.
  3. Family Favorites: If your spouse, kids, loved ones, or best friends have favorite recipes, Valentine's Day is the perfect time to include them. This adds a personal touch and makes the dinner more meaningful!
  4. Decorate the Table: To enhance the ambiance, use candles, flowers, or Valentine's Day-themed place settings and decorations.
  5. Don't Forget the Drinks: Pair your meal with appropriate wines for the adults or make a signature cocktail for the occasion. Non-alcoholic mocktails are just as special, so kids can sip on something fun and fruity!
  6. Sweet Endings: Conclude the meal with a special treat. Heart-shaped desserts, a chocolate fondue fountain, or red velvet cake are great family-friendly options!

❔ How Can I Involve My Kids In Making The Valentine's Day Dinner

Choose recipes based on the ability and age of your child. Younger children can add pizza toppings to pizza or sprinkles to cookies.

Older kids might be able to help measure ingredients, stir, or even manage the stovetop tasks. Choose a dinner or dessert recipe that your kids can help with at least one aspect of, even if you're the one that finishes it up.

❔ Are There Any Special Ingredients That Symbolize Valentine's Day

There aren't many Valentine's-themed ingredients you can use for the main dish outside of forming things into a heart shape. It's more about the company and enjoying a good meal with loved ones!

Strawberry, chocolate, and red velvet are classic Valentine's Day flavors that work well in desserts. Pink, red, or heart-shaped treats are great too!

❔ What Are Some Of The Best Valentine’s Day Chicken Dinner Recipes

Italian-inspired chicken dinners are always popular for Valentine's Day. Chicken Parmesan, Marry Me Chicken, and grilled chicken fettuccini alfredo are great examples!

Mushroom chicken, Monterey chicken, and spinach-stuffed chicken breasts are elegant, flavorful meals for this Valentine's Day!

These dinners are perfect for spending the evening with your entire family on Valentine's Day! Which one do you want to try out? Leave a comment below and let me know!

>>>>See all of my recipes here<<<<

💖 Sweet Valentine's Day Treats

  • Valentine's Day Chocolate Covered Strawberries - These strawberries are an easy-to-make treat that your whole family will love!
  • Puff Pastry Hearts - Using only two ingredients, these hearts are a perfect treat to make with the kids!
  • Tanghulu - Homemade candy-coated strawberries are a tasty dessert that anyone can enjoy!
  • Sugar Cookie Cherry Cobbler - Sugar cookie dough and cherry pie filling come together in this irresistible dessert!
  • Classic Sugar Cookies - My classic sugar cookies are perfect for decorating for Valentine's Day!
  • Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Chip Cookies - These chocolate chip cookies have an extra special ingredient- cherries!

Do you love a recipe you tried? Please leave a 5-star 🌟rating in the recipe card below and/or a review in the comments section further down the page.
Stay in touch with me through social media @ Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter! Subscribe to the newsletter today (no spam, I promise)! Don't forget to tag me when you try one of my recipes!

📖 Recipe Card

Tasty family dinner ideas for Valentine's day in a side-by-side image of three best dinners to make.
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5 from 3 reviews

Family Dinner Ideas For Valentine's Day: Marry Me Chicken (+Other Recipe Ideas!)

These family dinner ideas for Valentine's day are the perfect way to enjoy a nice, home-cooked meal with the entire family! Valentine's day isn't only for couples- you can still enjoy an outstanding dinner on this special occasion, even with the kids! All of these recipes are suitable for at least 4 people, packed with flavor, and are a great way to show your family how much you love them!
Author | Angela Latimer
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 565kcal
Prep 10 minutes minutes
Cooking 25 minutes minutes
Total Time 35 minutes minutes
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Ingredients
 

  • 1 ½ lbs chicken breast (boneless, skinless)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin)
  • 3 tablespoon butter
  • 2 teaspoon garlic (minced)
  • 3 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup Parmesan (grated)
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained)
  • 1 ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

(Note: 2x or 3x only changes the ingredient list)

Help Us Out!If you love a recipe, be sure to come back and share your ratings. This helps future users, and allows me to continue sharing free recipes! Angela

Instructions
 

  • Slice or pound the chicken breasts so that they are thinner and will cook more evenly. Then, season each side of the chicken with salt and pepper.
  • Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 5 minutes on each side, or until it is just almost fully cooked (the chicken will cook more later). Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
  • Add butter to the same skillet. Once it has melted, add the garlic and saute for 30 seconds or just until fragrant. Add the flour and mix until a paste is formed.
  • Whisk in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Continue whisking until thoroughly combined, then stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Taste sauce and add salt & pepper if necessary.
  • Simmer the sauce until thickened, about 3-4 minutes. Then, return the chicken to the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
  • Serve over warm pasta or white rice and garnish with fresh basil, if desired.

Notes

  • The fresh basil is optional but it is an ideal addition as it adds a lovely flavor.
  • The thinner the chicken, the faster it cooks. When the juices run clear and it has a minimum internal temperature of 165° F (74°C), it's ready.
  • Storing: Leftover marry me chicken should be kept in a shallow airtight container and refrigerated for 3 days. It does not freeze well. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat, just until the chicken is heated through.

Nutrition

Calories: 565kcal (28%) | Carbohydrates: 15g (5%) | Protein: 45g (90%) | Fat: 36g (55%) | Saturated Fat: 19g (119%) | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 192mg (64%) | Sodium: 1001mg (44%) | Potassium: 1191mg (34%) | Fiber: 2g (8%) | Sugar: 7g (8%) | Vitamin A: 1202IU (24%) | Vitamin C: 8mg (10%) | Calcium: 222mg (22%) | Iron: 3mg (17%)
Did you try this recipe? Rate it below!I can’t wait to see your results! Mention @bake_it_with_love or tag #bake_it_with_love!
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
« Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
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Author bio photo with cake.

Hi there, I'm Angela

I am an avid vintage cookbook collector, cook, baker, and total foodie. I love sharing new, fun, creative recipes and great classic recipes, just like my Grandma used to make! Every recipe on BIWL is tested to ensure that cooks of any experience level can succeed.

Welcome to Bake It With Love. Enjoy!

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