This ground chicken “marry me” skillet is a deliciously creamy and comforting high-protein meal that’s low in carbs and so easy to make!

This creamy ground chicken “marry me” skillet is deliciously comforting, savory, and layered with Tuscan-inspired flavor. It’s a simple, one-pan meal that tastes a little elevated but takes minimal effort.

It’s also high protein and low carb, with about 38 grams of protein and around 6 net carbs per serving. It’s made with lean ground chicken, plenty of spinach, and a blend of seasoning, with just enough sun-dried tomatoes and cream to add flavor while keeping it light and lower in carbs.

It’s an easy weeknight dinner that comes together in about 20 minutes. Everything cooks in one pan, so cleanup is simple. And, most importantly, it’s healthy and delicious!

Ingredients

Ground chicken: We recommend 94% lean or slightly lower for the best balance of flavor and moisture. Don’t go leaner or it can turn out dry and bland.

Fresh spinach: We highly recommend using fresh spinach instead of frozen, as frozen is not as flavorful and can be more watery. Fresh spinach wilts nicely into the sauce and keeps the texture just right.

Sun-dried tomatoes: Add a concentrated, slightly sweet and tangy flavor that gives the signature “marry me” taste. You can use oil-packed (drained) or dry-packed. Just avoid adding too much so it stays lower in carbs.

Heavy cream: Helps create that smooth, creamy sauce. You can reduce slightly for a lighter version, but we don’t recommend skipping it or the sauce will lose that classic texture.

Parmesan cheese: Helps thicken and flavor the sauce. Freshly grated works best, but pre-grated will still get the job done.

Chicken broth: Loosens the sauce just enough while adding extra flavor.

Garlic: Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.

Seasonings (Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper): This blend adds flavor, warmth and a little kick. You can adjust the spice level to taste.

Preparation Steps

Brown chicken: Heat a large not-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add ground chicken and season with about ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper. Cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Pour off excess fat when done.

Add seasoning: Add garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for a minute or so until fragrant.

Add the sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream until combined. Add parmesan and stir until melted and smooth.

Simmer: Let the skillet simmer uncovered for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will slightly reduce and thicken.

Add spinach (in batches): Add the spinach a few handfuls at a time, letting it slightly wilt before adding more.

Finish: Continue cooking for a few more minutes uncovered to allow any liquid from the spinach to evaporate. Turn off heat and season with more salt and pepper if needed. Stir in a few squeezes of lemon juice as desired.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Store: Let the skillet cool, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

More High Protein Ground Chicken Recipes

If you try this recipe, we would love to hear your feedback! Leave a comment, rate it, and tag @lowcarbsimplified on your photo of this recipe on Instagram or Facebook. We hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do!

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