I’ve always loved how a simple dish can bring people together, and this High-Protein Marry Me Chicken does just that. It’s creamy, flavorful, and packed with protein, making it a win for both health and taste. With tender chicken, a rich Parmesan sauce, and a hint of garlic, it’s the kind of meal that feels special without being fussy. I’ll show you how to make it, but trust me, the magic is in the details.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This High-Protein Marry Me Chicken recipe is a perfect blend of flavor and nutrition, making it a standout dish for any occasion.
- It’s packed with lean protein to keep you energized and satisfied.
- The rich, creamy sauce adds a luxurious touch without being overly heavy.
- It’s quick and easy to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights or special dinners.
Recipe
High-Protein Marry Me Chicken is a flavorful and protein-packed twist on the classic dish, perfect for those looking to fuel their bodies while enjoying a delicious meal. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy, savory sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Return chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce. Add sun-dried tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes:
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk.
- Serve with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or whole-grain pasta for a complete meal.
Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Serving: 4
Calories: 380 per serving
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Equipment
To prepare High-Protein Marry Me Chicken, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment guarantees a smooth cooking process and perfect results.
- Large skillet or oven-safe pan
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Tongs
- Mixing bowl for marinating (optional)
Nutrition
High-Protein Marry Me Chicken is a nutritious dish packed with essential nutrients to fuel your body. This recipe combines lean protein with wholesome ingredients for a balanced meal.
- High in protein from chicken breast
- Rich in healthy fats from olive oil and Parmesan cheese
- Contains vitamins A and C from sun-dried tomatoes
- Provides calcium and phosphorus from heavy cream and cheese
- Low in carbs, making it suitable for low-carb diets
- Includes antioxidants from garlic and herbs
What to Serve With This Recipe
I love pairing this high-protein Marry Me Chicken with creamy mashed potatoes or garlic butter green beans for a comforting meal. If I’m feeling fancy, roasted Parmesan asparagus or herbed quinoa pilaf adds a fresh, flavorful twist. Don’t forget a side of crusty garlic bread to soak up all that delicious sauce!
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
When I’m serving up a dish like High-Protein Marry Me Chicken, I always think about what’ll make the meal feel complete, and creamy mashed potatoes are my go-to. I love playing with flavor variations, like adding roasted garlic or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and mastering cooking techniques, such as using warm cream for extra smoothness. They’re the perfect, comforting side everyone adores.
Garlic Butter Green Beans
Garlic butter green beans are a fresh, vibrant side that pairs perfectly with High-Protein Marry Me Chicken, adding color and crunch to the plate. I love how the tender green beans soak up the rich garlic butter, creating flavor combinations that feel cozy yet elegant. It’s quick to make, and the bright green pops against the chicken, making the whole dish look irresistible.
Roasted Parmesan Asparagus
If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both simple and packed with flavor, roasted Parmesan asparagus is a winner. With its asparagus benefits like being low in calories and high in vitamins, it’s a nutritious choice. My favorite roasting techniques include tossing the spears with olive oil, sprinkling them with Parmesan, and baking until tender-crisp. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s ready in minutes!
Herbed Quinoa Pilaf
After enjoying the roasted Parmesan asparagus, I’m excited to share another side dish that pairs perfectly with the High-Protein Marry Me Chicken: herbed quinoa pilaf. I love how quinoa benefits include being packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy, filling choice. For herbed variations, I mix in parsley, thyme, and a hint of rosemary—it’s simple but adds so much flavor. You’ll love how it complements the chicken!
Crusty Garlic Bread
There’s something about crusty garlic bread that just makes a meal feel complete, especially when paired with High-Protein Marry Me Chicken. I love experimenting with garlic varieties, like roasted or fresh, to bring out different flavors. For bread types, I usually go for a baguette or ciabatta—they’re perfect for that crispy exterior and soft inside. It’s simple, but it always steals the show!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
I was just wondering if I could swap chicken thighs for breasts, and it turns out I can! Thighs bring richer flavor differences but need slightly longer cooking times since they’re juicier and more forgiving.
Is This Recipe Freezer-Friendly?
I’d say yes, this recipe is freezer-friendly, perfect for meal prep and convenience. Just store the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to three months, and let it cool completely before freezing. Thaw overnight and reheat when ready.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream With a Lighter Option?
I could spend an eternity debating light cream alternatives, but I’d swap heavy cream for half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk—both dairy-free options. They’ll keep the dish creamy without overpowering it, though they’ll slightly alter the richness.
How Long Does It Take to Marinate the Chicken?
I’d marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but I’d aim for 2-4 hours for better flavor enhancement. The marinade duration really makes a difference, so I’d let it soak up all those delicious flavors.
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
I’ve heard slow cookers work wonders, and yes, I can adapt this for one. The slow cooker benefits shine here—tender, flavorful chicken without fuss. It’s a great variation on chicken cooking methods, simplifying my kitchen routine.
