There’s something truly special about a dish that whispers ‘comfort food’ while also checking the boxes for health and ease. When I first experimented with this High-Protein Marry Me Chicken, I didn’t anticipate the delightful blend of flavors and the sheer simplicity it would bring to my weeknight dinners.
Picture this: succulent chicken bathed in a creamy sauce infused with aromatic garlic and a touch of spice, all kissed with the goodness of rich, high-protein ingredients. Each bite promises satisfaction, whether you’re setting the mood for a romantic evening or simply seeking to impress the family with minimal fuss.
Best of all, this one-pan wonder leaves you with less cleanup and more time to enjoy delicious food. Trust me, this might just become your new go-to recipe!
Why is High-Protein Marry Me Chicken a Must-Try?
Simplicity: This one-pan recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor-Packed: The creamy sauce melds rich garlic and savory herbs, creating an unforgettable taste.
High-Protein: Boost your meals with nutrient-dense ingredients like cottage cheese for a wholesome twist.
Versatile: Customize with your favorite proteins or veggies for endless variations to suit different tastes.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a date night or a family dinner, its appeal is universal and irresistible.
Time-Saving: Enjoy a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes, allowing more time to relax with loved ones.
High-Protein Marry Me Chicken Ingredients
• A delightful blend of flavor awaits!
For the Sauce
- Chicken Bone Broth – Provides rich, savory flavor and moisture; substitute with low-sodium chicken broth if unavailable.
- Heavy Cream – Adds creaminess and richness to the sauce; substitute with half-and-half for a lower-fat option.
- Whole Milk Cottage Cheese – Increases protein content while adding creaminess; can be swapped for ricotta for a different texture.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes (chopped) – Adds concentrated tomato flavor and sweetness; use fresh tomatoes for a lighter alternative.
- Parmesan Cheese – Offers salty depth to the sauce; substitute with grated Pecorino Romano if preferred.
- Tomato Paste – Adds acidity and a rich color to the sauce; substitute with an equal amount of tomato sauce in a pinch.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances overall flavor; use sea salt or table salt, adjusting to taste.
- Black Pepper – Adds mild heat; freshly ground pepper is preferred for the best flavor.
For the Chicken
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Cutlets – The main protein; chicken breasts can be used, but may require longer cooking time.
- All-Purpose Flour – Used for dredging the chicken; omit for a gluten-free version or use almond flour.
For Flavoring
- Italian Seasoning – Adds herbal notes; create a mix using basil, oregano, and thyme if unavailable.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – For sautéing, adding flavor; can replace with avocado oil for higher smoke points.
- Unsalted Butter – Enhances flavor and richness; use ghee or margarine as a dairy-free alternative.
- Garlic Cloves – Essential for savory flavor; minced shallots can be used if garlic is not desired.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a spicy kick; omit for a milder dish or substitute with black pepper.
- Fresh Basil Leaves – For garnish and added flavor; substitute with parsley if basil is not accessible.
How to Make High-Protein Marry Me Chicken
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Prepare Chicken: Season boneless, skinless chicken cutlets with Italian seasoning and dredge them lightly in all-purpose flour for a slight crunch that seals in moisture.
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Sear Chicken: Heat a mix of extra-virgin olive oil and unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken cutlets and cook until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side, then remove and set aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, toss in minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.
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Blend Sauce: In a blender, combine chicken bone broth, heavy cream, cottage cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste. Blend until smooth, creating a creamy sauce that will envelop your chicken.
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Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet, pour in your luxurious sauce, and stir gently to coat each piece. Add fresh basil, then let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to marry the flavors beautifully.
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Serve: Plate your High-Protein Marry Me Chicken while hot, and enjoy it with crusty bread, pasta, or your favorite salad for a complete meal.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top for a cheesy finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for High-Protein Marry Me Chicken
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the creamy texture of the sauce, ensuring every bite remains delightful.
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Freezer: If you want to save some for later, freeze the High-Protein Marry Me Chicken in portions for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe containers, and allow it to cool completely before sealing.
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Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain that luscious sauce consistency.
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Serving Fresh: For best results, enjoy within a few days. The flavors meld beautifully, making each serving a delicious reminder of that special recipe.
Make Ahead Options
These High-Protein Marry Me Chicken cutlets are a fantastic dish for meal prep! You can season the chicken and dredge it in flour up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, the creamy sauce can be blended and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just be sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it from drying out or absorbing other flavors. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the chicken as described, heat the sauce in a skillet, and combine—the result will be just as delicious and satisfying as if you made it fresh! This approach saves you time and makes dinner easy on those busy weeknights.
Expert Tips for High-Protein Marry Me Chicken
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Even Dredging: Ensure chicken cutlets are evenly dredged in flour to achieve that delightful crust while searing.
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Smooth Sauce: Blend the sauce until completely smooth for the best texture. A cohesive sauce makes every bite of High-Protein Marry Me Chicken a pleasure.
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Cooking Time Check: Monitor the cooking time closely, adjusting as needed based on the thickness of the cutlets to prevent dryness.
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Protein Boost: To increase the protein even further, consider adding additional cottage cheese or swapping chicken for a plant-based option like tofu.
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Herb Freshness: Use fresh herbs where possible, as they enhance the dish’s flavor. If you’re out of basil, parsley makes a fine substitute.
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Serving Suggestions: Pair your dish with crusty bread or a light side salad for a balanced meal that feels indulgent yet healthy.
What to Serve with High-Protein Marry Me Chicken?
When planning a meal around this delectable dish, consider complementary sides that enhance its creamy richness and bright flavors.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery smoothness of mashed potatoes provides a comforting contrast to the savory chicken and sauce.
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Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce, making each bite an exquisite experience.
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Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens with a zesty vinaigrette add a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the chicken while bringing vibrant colors to your plate.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots and zucchini, lightly seasoned, offer a sweet and savory flavor that beautifully complements the dish’s creaminess.
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Pasta Primavera: Tender pasta tossed with seasonal veggies creates a delightful textural contrast, making for a hearty and satisfying pairing.
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Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa with almonds and herbs adds a nutritious element alongside the chicken, bringing an intriguing flavor profile to the table.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay carries subtle citrus notes that cut through the sauce’s richness, enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Tiramisu: End the meal on a sweet note with a classic Italian dessert, its light coffee flavor balancing the savory richness of your main dish.
Each of these options works in harmony with High-Protein Marry Me Chicken, ensuring a meal that’s unforgettable and filled with love.
High-Protein Marry Me Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this dish to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream and cottage cheese with coconut cream and silken tofu for a rich, vegan-friendly sauce.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour or skip dredging altogether for a crispy-skinned chicken that’s still moist and flavorful.
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Veggie-Packed: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers into the sauce for extra nutrients and a colorful twist. This not only boosts nutrition but adds beautiful color.
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Herbaceous Twist: Fresh thyme or oregano can replace basil for a distinct flavor profile, turning this dish into your personal signature meal.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you crave more heat in your sauce—it will awaken your taste buds!
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Protein Boost: Swap out chicken for turkey cutlets or grilled shrimp, providing an exciting new taste while keeping it high in protein.
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Mediterranean Flair: Incorporate olives and feta cheese into the sauce for a delicious Mediterranean-inspired dish that dances with flavor.
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Quick and Easy: For a rushed night, use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken. Just blend the sauce and heat it together for a fast, delicious meal.
Each variation opens up a world of tastes and possibilities, ensuring your High-Protein Marry Me Chicken is ever-evolving and delightfully fresh!
High-Protein Marry Me Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use?
For this dish, boneless, skinless chicken cutlets are ideal as they cook quickly and evenly. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but they may require an additional cooking time of 1-2 minutes per side to ensure they are cooked through.
How do I select ripe ingredients, particularly the sun-dried tomatoes?
When selecting sun-dried tomatoes, look for those that are plump and slightly moist rather than overly dry and hard. If using fresh tomatoes instead, choose ones that are firm but yield slightly to pressure, indicating ripeness. This will help ensure that your sauce is full of flavor.
How should I store leftovers of the High-Protein Marry Me Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s important to allow the dish to cool fully before sealing, as this helps maintain the creamy texture of the sauce.
Can I freeze High-Protein Marry Me Chicken? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, portion the chicken into freezer-safe containers after it has cooled down. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring regularly to keep the sauce creamy.
What if my sauce is too thick after reheating?
If your sauce thickens when storing or reheating, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water while stirring. Warm it on low heat, allowing it to incorporate back into the sauce until it reaches the desired consistency—this keeps the dish luscious and inviting!
Are there any dietary considerations or allergies to be aware of?
Yes, make sure to consider any allergies. This recipe contains dairy due to ingredients like heavy cream and cottage cheese, so it’s important to substitute with dairy-free products like almond milk or coconut cream if necessary. Always check any pre-made ingredients, like broths or sauces, for potential allergens.
High-Protein Marry Me Chicken That Will Make Love Bloom
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season boneless, skinless chicken cutlets with Italian seasoning and dredge them lightly in all-purpose flour.
- Heat a mix of extra-virgin olive oil and unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken cutlets and cook until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side, then remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, toss in minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- In a blender, combine chicken bone broth, heavy cream, cottage cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste. Blend until smooth.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, pour in the sauce, and stir gently. Add fresh basil and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Plate your High-Protein Marry Me Chicken while hot, and enjoy it with crusty bread, pasta, or your favorite salad.