High-Protein Marry Me Chicken

Step-by-step instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant—this should only take about a minute.
Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and cook until golden brown on each side, typically 5–7 minutes.
While the chicken is cooking, mix the cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes in a separate bowl until well combined.
Once the chicken is browned, spread the creamy cheese mixture evenly over the top of each breast in the skillet.
Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Serve hot and enjoy your culinary masterpiece!

Best ways to enjoy it

To elevate your dining experience, serve High-Protein Marry Me Chicken alongside some roasted vegetables or a light salad. A glass of white wine, like Chardonnay, pairs beautifully with the richness of the dish. For a heartier meal, consider serving it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice, allowing the flavorful juices to soak in.

Keeping leftovers fresh

If you happen to have leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, it’s best to do so gently in the oven or microwave to maintain the dish’s creamy texture. You can also freeze the prepared dish for up to three months. Just make sure to cool it completely before storing to maintain freshness.

Pro chef tips

Don’t rush the browning of the chicken; this step adds so much flavor, so take your time!
Fresh spinach is recommended for optimal flavor, but you can always use frozen spinach if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to thaw and drain it beforehand.
Feel free to adjust the amounts of cream cheese and Parmesan based on your personal cheese preference—the more, the merrier!

Creative twists

Switching things up can keep this dish exciting. Try swapping the spinach for kale or add mushrooms for an earthy flavor. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the cheese mix. You could even make it Mediterranean by incorporating olives or feta cheese. The possibilities are endless, and experimenting can lead to new favorites!

Your questions answered

How long does it take to prepare and cook this dish?

The total time for preparing and cooking High-Protein Marry Me Chicken is about 45 minutes, making it a great option for a mid-week meal.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can pre-cook the chicken and prepare the cheese mixture a few hours ahead. Just combine and bake when you’re ready to eat.

What if I’m looking for a dairy-free option?

For a dairy-free version, consider using cashew cream or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. You can also try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

By following this high-protein recipe, you’ll not only delight your palate but also leave a lasting impression at the dinner table. Happy cooking!