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High-Protein Marry Me Chicken Skillet

High-Protein Marry Me Chicken Skillet

High-Protein Marry Me Chicken Skillet is a flavorful, protein-packed dinner featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a creamy, spicy sun-dried tomato sauce. Quick to prepare and full of rich, layered flavors, this one-pan skillet meal is perfect for weeknights or serving guests with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Main Ingredients

  • 2 large chicken breasts, trimmed and pounded evenly
  • 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Garnishes and Herbs

  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prep and Season the Chicken: Trim and pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure quick and uniform cooking. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes to build flavor from the start.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear until golden brown on both sides but not fully cooked through, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside.
  3. Sauté Aromatics and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add diced onions and minced garlic. Cook until fragrant and softened. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes so their rich flavors infuse into the oil and begin building the sauce base.
  4. Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth followed by the heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and simmer the sauce for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  5. Return Chicken and Finish Cooking: Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning the creamy tomato sauce over them. Cover and reduce heat to low, cooking for another 6 to 8 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Turn off the heat and sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley over the skillet. Serve immediately, optionally paired with your choice of sides.

Notes

  • Chicken thickness matters: Pound breasts evenly to cook uniformly and avoid dryness.
  • Don’t rush the sear: A golden crust adds deep flavor and satisfying texture.
  • Use quality sun-dried tomatoes: They significantly enhance the richness and tang of the sauce.
  • Adjust creaminess: Substitute half the cream with chicken broth for a lighter sauce without losing flavor.
  • Rest before serving: Let the dish sit off heat for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Keywords: high-protein, chicken skillet, marry me chicken, creamy tomato sauce, one-pan meal, gluten free, low carb, keto friendly