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Easy High Protein Marry Me Chicken - Creamy, Flavorful, and Quick

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 small to medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 to 2 pounds), patted dry
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (use oil from the sun-dried tomato jar for extra flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or a mix of dried basil and oregano
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 3/4 cup half-and-half or light cream (or use heavy cream for a richer sauce)
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and sliced
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Method
 

  1. Season the chicken: Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sprinkle evenly over both sides of the chicken.
  2. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high. Add chicken and sear 4–5 minutes per side until golden. Remove to a plate; it will finish cooking in the sauce.
  3. Build the flavor base: Lower heat to medium. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir 30 seconds until fragrant, scraping up browned bits.
  4. Deglaze: Pour in the chicken broth. Simmer 1–2 minutes, stirring, until slightly reduced.
  5. Create the creamy sauce: Stir in half-and-half, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan. Whisk gently until the cheese melts and the sauce looks smooth.
  6. Add sun-dried tomatoes: Fold in the sliced tomatoes. Simmer 2 minutes to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  7. Finish the chicken: Return chicken and any juices to the pan. Spoon sauce over the top. Simmer on low 5–8 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  8. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley. Add a squeeze of lemon if you like brightness. Serve with your favorite sides and extra Parmesan.