Lightened Marry Me Chicken: A Flavorful Dish for Any Occasion

Whether you’re making dinner for a loved one or hosting a cozy gathering, this Lightened Marry Me Chicken is sure to impress. Its creamy texture and rich flavor will have everyone asking for the recipe!

Picture this: tender, shredded chicken enveloped in creamy cheese and sun-dried tomatoes, topped with a sprinkle of fresh basil. This Lightened Marry Me Chicken is a comforting dish perfect for a romantic evening or a family dinner. I remember serving this at a gathering once, and the rich, aromatic scents wafting through the kitchen had everyone eagerly anticipating the first bite. The combination of ingredients makes this dish unforgettable while remaining healthy and light, so you can enjoy it guilt-free.

Why Should You Try Lightened Marry Me Chicken This Season?

This tasty dish is perfect for any time of year, but its comforting flavors make it ideal for fall and winter gatherings.

Lightened Marry Me Chicken is an incredible way to enjoy a satisfying, healthy meal. It uses ingredients like Greek yogurt and light cream cheese to create a creamy base while keeping the calories in check. This dish not only caters to your comfort food cravings but also provides high-protein nourishment, making it a go-to for family dinners. If you’re looking for something delightful to serve during chilly evenings, this recipe harmonizes beautifully with a roaring fireplace and good company. Moreover, the sun-dried tomatoes add a pop of brightness that lifts the overall experience. You can enjoy it alongside roasted veggies or a hearty salad; either way, this dish shines! Don’t forget to check out our High Protein Chicken Alfredo Bake for another fulfilling meal idea.

What Makes This Lightened Marry Me Chicken Unique?

This version of Marry Me Chicken keeps all the rich flavors we love while offering a healthier twist.

Healthier Ingredients

Many traditional Marry Me Chicken recipes rely on heavy creams and high-calorie cheese blends. In this lightened version, we replace those with Greek yogurt and light cream cheese, creating a dish that’s just as creamy and rich without the extra calories.

Flavor Balance

The inclusion of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil takes this chicken dish to the next level, providing complex flavors while keeping it light. Pairing the sun-dried tomatoes with fresh herbs brightens each mouthful, ensuring that every bite is deliciously satisfying.

Cook Method

Unlike many other chicken bakes that can turn out dry, this dish combines shredded chicken with its creamy mixture, ensuring every piece is moist and flavorful. And to top it off, it’s baked to golden perfection in just a bit over 20 minutes. For more information on adapting classic recipes while keeping them healthy, you can explore this Wikipedia article on healthy diets. Additionally, you may want to browse our Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Tails for a unique seafood twist that’s just as indulgent.

What Ingredients Do You Need For Lightened Marry Me Chicken, and How Do You Prep?

The ingredients for this delightful dish are simple yet incredibly flavorful!

One vital ingredient to highlight is Greek yogurt, both for its creamy texture and high protein content; it offers a tangy flavor that beautifully complements the dish’s richness. If you’re lactose intolerant or need a dairy-free alternative, you could substitute Greek yogurt with silken tofu for a similar texture. Another important ingredient is sun-dried tomatoes; they add a burst of flavor and sweetness that balances perfectly with the savory elements. If you’re looking to try something different, consider using roasted red peppers instead. Don’t forget to check out our Creamy Pesto Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes for another flavorful dish!

How Do You Make Lightened Marry Me Chicken Step by Step?

Creating this delightful dish is a breeze and takes just a few simple steps!

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2

Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional minute to enhance the flavors. This step helps to release the aromatic oils from the garlic, providing a strong flavor base for the dish.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, sautéed garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, light cream cheese, Greek yogurt, mozzarella, Parmesan, chopped basil, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir until fully incorporated.

Transfer the mixture into a lightly greased 1-quart baking dish and smooth the surface with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until heated through, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.

To enhance flavors further, consider letting it rest for a few minutes after baking, this allows the ingredients to meld beautifully. Garnish with additional fresh basil before serving warm alongside sliced vegetables, whole grain crackers, or pita chips for a complete meal experience!

How Can You Customize and Serve Lightened Marry Me Chicken?

There are endless ways to vary this dish to suit your preferences and occasions!

Diet Swap

If you’re following a gluten-free diet, confirm that all sauces and ingredients are certified gluten-free, or you can consider using quinoa instead of crackers for a hearty option.

Flavor Variation

You could introduce a kick with some cayenne pepper instead of red pepper flakes or add a tangy twist with lemon zest or juice to brighten the flavors. For a Mediterranean vibe, consider incorporating olives or capers.

If you’re looking for something else to accompany this delightful dish, check out our Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Noodles, which pairs well and offers a different flavor profile.

Serving Idea

Lightened Marry Me Chicken is best enjoyed warm, but it can also be made ahead of time and served cold for meal prep. Pair it with a crisp green salad to balance the creamy chicken, or serve over whole-grain pasta for a hearty, fiber-filled dinner.

Final Thoughts on Lightened Marry Me Chicken

This Lightened Marry Me Chicken is a surefire winner that brings comfort food to the table without compromising on health. The simplest ingredients come together to create a dish bursting with flavor that will be making an appearance in your regular meal rotation. Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or prepping healthy meals for the week, this dish is versatile, easy, and guaranteed to please everyone. Don’t forget, this dish makes great leftovers! Store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days without losing its flair.

If this recipe was a hit for you, consider sharing it on Pinterest to inspire others, or follow me for more engaging recipes and tips on the art of cooking. Get inspired on Pinterest!

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Lightened Marry Me Chicken

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A delicious and healthy twist on the classic Marry Me Chicken, featuring tender chicken mixed in a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil.

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded (approximately 2 large breasts)
• 4 ounces light cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (2% or nonfat)
• 1/2 cup part-skim shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional minute.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, sautéed garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, light cream cheese, Greek yogurt, mozzarella, Parmesan, chopped basil, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir until fully incorporated.
4. Transfer the mixture into a lightly greased 1-quart baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until heated through, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
5. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh basil.

Notes

This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Pair with roasted vegetables or a mixed greens salad.

• Author: Benjamin Scott
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 70mg