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High Protein Marry Me Chicken (Lightened Up, Creamy & Satisfying) - A Weeknight Favorite

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5–2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 cutlets) or thighs
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
  • 1–2 tablespoons olive oil (use oil from sun-dried tomatoes if packed in oil)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (drained if in oil)
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup plain 2% Greek yogurt
  • 1/3 cup half-and-half or light cream (or 1/4 cup heavy cream for richer)
  • 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Prep the chicken: Pat dry. Season both sides with 1/2 teaspoon salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
  • Sear: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add chicken and cook 4–5 minutes per side until golden and just cooked through. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil.
  • Sauté aromatics: Lower heat to medium. Add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook 30–60 seconds, stirring, until fragrant. Do not burn the garlic.
  • Deglaze: Pour in chicken broth. Scrape up browned bits. Simmer 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
  • Make it creamy: Reduce heat to low. Whisk together Greek yogurt and half-and-half in a small bowl to temper. Slowly stir this mixture into the pan. Add Parmesan and red pepper flakes. Stir until smooth.
  • Finish the sauce: Add lemon juice and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, adjusting to taste. The sauce should be creamy and gently simmering, not boiling.
  • Return chicken to pan: Nestle chicken into the sauce and spoon sauce over the top. Simmer 2–3 minutes to warm through and thicken slightly.
  • Garnish and serve: Top with chopped basil or parsley. Serve over whole-grain pasta, mashed or roasted potatoes, zucchini noodles, or rice.