Marry Me High Protein Chicken

The name caught my attention first, but honestly, I was skeptical. Another marry me chicken recipe? Then I came home exhausted after a chaotic Tuesday, threw everything in the slow cooker, and walked away. Four hours later, my entire apartment smelled like an Italian restaurant, and that first forkful had me rethinking everything I knew about dump-and-go meals.

My sister texted me at 7 PM last Wednesday, stressed and hungry, so I talked her through this recipe over the phone. She called me back two hours later saying she hadnt eaten something this good in months, and her husband asked when I was moving in full-time. Now its the recipe she texts all her friends about.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts: I learned the hard way that pounding them to even thickness means they cook at the same rate instead of some pieces drying out while others catch up
• 1/2 tsp each salt and black pepper: Dont skip this step, it builds the flavor foundation that makes everything else pop
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Using regular broth once made this dish way too salty, and I couldnt fix it
• 1/2 cup light cream cheese softened: Let it sit on the counter for 30 minutes, otherwise youll be whisking forever and still have lumps
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: Freshly grated melts into the sauce better than the stuff in the green shaker
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes drained and chopped: These little pockets of concentrated flavor are what makes this taste like you spent hours cooking
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme and 1/2 tsp dried basil: Dried herbs work beautifully here since theyll bloom during the long cooking time
• 1 tsp garlic powder: I tried fresh garlic once and it turned bitter after four hours, stick to the powder
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes: Optional but that subtle warmth in the background makes the whole dish sing
• Fresh basil and parsley for garnish: These bright herb notes on top make each bite feel fresh and lively

Instructions

Season the chicken:

Sprinkle salt and pepper all over both sides of the chicken, taking your time to coat evenly and thoroughly

Arrange in the slow cooker:

Lay the seasoned chicken pieces in the bottom of your crockpot, giving them some room to breathe

Whisk up the sauce magic:

Combine the broth, cream cheese, parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and all those herbs and spices in a medium bowl, whisking until mostly smooth with just tiny bits of tomato visible

Pour and coat:

Pour that gorgeous sauce over the chicken, lifting pieces with tongs to make sure every bit gets covered in liquid gold

Let it work:

Cook on HIGH for 4 hours or LOW for 6 to 7 hours, and try not to lift the lid too often, which lets heat escape

Shred and reunite:

Pull out the cooked chicken and shred it with two forks or slice it, then return it to the sauce and stir so every piece is swimming in flavor

Finish with fresh herbs:

Serve it up hot, scattering fresh basil and parsley on top like confetti

Save

This recipe became my go-to when I started meal prepping seriously, and I finally understood why everyone raves about having protein ready to go. Theres something so satisfying about opening the fridge and seeing containers of this creamy, protein-packed goodness waiting for you.

Making It Your Own

After making this weekly for months, I realized that swapping Greek yogurt for half the cream cheese adds even more protein while keeping that velvety texture. Just stir it in at the end so it doesnt separate from the long heat.

What To Serve With It

Cauliflower rice soaks up that sauce like a dream and keeps it light, but sometimes I serve it over whole wheat pasta when I want something more substantial. The sauce clings to every noodle and carb pairing makes it feel like a complete restaurant meal.

Storage And Reheating

This keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to five days, and I actually think the flavors deepen and get even better after a night or two. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen up that creamy sauce again.

• Freeze individual portions for those days when cooking feels impossible
• The sauce thickens in the fridge, so dont panic, it loosens up when heated
• Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low, stirring often to prevent sticking

Save

Whether you call it marry me chicken or just your new favorite easy dinner, this recipes got that magical quality of making you feel like you put in way more effort than you actually did.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used and will result in a slightly richer texture. Adjust cooking time if needed.

→ How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Add dairy ingredients like cream cheese after cooking or use full-fat options to maintain a smooth sauce.

→ Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Substitute cream cheese and parmesan with dairy-free alternatives to keep the creamy texture without dairy.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve with cauliflower rice, quinoa, or whole wheat pasta to complement the creamy chicken and absorb the sauce.

→ Can I add vegetables to the crockpot?

Yes, adding spinach or baby kale in the last 30 minutes of cooking adds extra nutrients and color.