Marry Me High Protein Chicken

The name alone made me skeptical, but one bite of this creamy, tender chicken and I understood exactly why people joke about marriage proposals. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, transforming simple ingredients into something that tastes like it simmered all day on an Italian grandmother's stove.

My sister called me at 7 PM on a Tuesday, barely holding it together between work deadlines and two hungry kids. I talked her through throwing everything in the slow cooker, and by the time she called back three hours later, she sounded like a different person. Sometimes the best meals are the ones that save your sanity.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: 1.5 lbs boneless and skinless, pound them slightly if theyre thick so they cook evenly
• Salt and black pepper: 1/2 tsp each to create a flavor foundation before the sauce works its magic
• Chicken broth: 1 cup low-sodium, because controlling the salt lets the other ingredients shine
• Light cream cheese: 1/2 cup softened, it melts into the sauce creating that velvety texture
• Grated parmesan: 1/2 cup adds that nutty depth that makes the sauce taste slow-simmered
• Sun-dried tomatoes: 1/2 cup drained and chopped, these little pockets of intensity make every bite interesting
• Dried thyme and basil: 1/2 tsp each brings that herb garden warmth even in winter
• Garlic powder: 1 tsp because fresh garlic can sometimes turn bitter in long cook times
• Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/2 tsp optional but that tiny kick wakes everything up
• Fresh basil and parsley: 2 tbsp and 1 tbsp respectively for that finishing pop of color and brightness

Instructions

Season the chicken:

Sprinkle both sides of each breast with salt and pepper, letting it sit while you prep everything else

Start the foundation:

Arrange the seasoned chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker, overlapping slightly if needed

Build the sauce:

Whisk together the broth, softened cream cheese, parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and all those herbs and spices until mostly combined

Pour and cover:

Empty that sauce over the chicken, nudging pieces around so everything gets cozy and covered

Let it work:

Cook on HIGH for 4 hours or LOW for 6 to 7 hours until the chicken shreds easily with a fork

Finish with love:

Pull the chicken out, shred or slice it, then return it to the pot so it can soak up all that creamy goodness one more time

Garnish and serve:

Scatter fresh basil and parsley on top right before serving, watching how those green bits brighten the whole dish

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My husband who usually claims he can taste healthy substitutions from a mile away went back for thirds. Sometimes the simplest meals, the ones that practically make themselves, become the ones we ask for on repeat.

Serving Ideas That Actually Work

Cauliflower rice soaks up that sauce beautifully without competing for attention. I have also served it over quinoa when I need something more substantial, and whole wheat pasta turns it into comfort food territory.

Making It Your Own

Spinach or baby kale added in the last thirty minutes wilts perfectly into the sauce. For dairy-free, I have used coconut cream cheese and nutritional yeast with surprisingly good results.

Prep Ahead Magic

Mixing the sauce the night before and storing it in the refrigerator means dinner is literally minutes away in the morning. Everything marinates together and somehow tastes even better.

• Chop your sun-dried tomatoes and herbs while the chicken is seasoning
• Let the cream cheese soften on the counter for twenty minutes before whisking
• Set out your slow cooker the night before so it is ready to go

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Whether it is a busy Tuesday or a Sunday when you just do not want to cook, this recipe delivers something special.

Recipe FAQs

→ How long should I cook the chicken on low?

Cook on low for 6 to 7 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

→ Can I substitute cream cheese with another ingredient?

Yes, Greek yogurt can be used after cooking to avoid curdling for an extra protein boost.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve over cauliflower rice, quinoa, or whole wheat pasta for a complete meal.

→ How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Adding spinach or baby kale in the last 30 minutes of cooking adds extra greens and nutrients.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, if all ingredients are certified gluten-free, it fits a gluten-free diet.