When browsing the internet for some meal planning inspiration, I came across one recipe over and over again.  It got rave reviews and it had a funny name, so I was intrigued.  Today, I’ve taken a bold step in the kitchen – I’ve transformed the viral sensation “Marry Me Chicken” into something a tad less, shall we say, matrimonial. 

Introducing “Second Date Chicken”! 

We all know the age-old adage, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Well, I’ve decided to put a modern twist on it. You see, in the original recipe, every bite of that creamy, rich, decadent chicken was practically a down-payment on a wedding ring. But let’s be honest, not every meal needs to end with a trip to the jeweler (or in this case – the cardiologist)

Enter “Second Date Chicken.” Not quite as heavy as “Marry Me Chicken”, but oh so flavorful.  It’s like the original with its Tuscan undertones, but I’ve waved my magic wand and poof! the dairy disappeared and excess fat was trimmed.. 

What we’re left with is a dish that’s lighter, healthier, but still packed with flavor. Literally leaving him coming back for more.  It won’t leave you bloated and sluggish either.  So, instead of that inflammatory  viral  dish that screams “put a ring on it,” I present to you a lighter, healthier option that whispers, “I’ve got to see you again.”

This is the chicken dish that went to the gym, ditched the dairy, and got itself a health makeover. We’re talking lighter, leaner, and oh-so-luscious. 

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts (sliced in ½ to make thin cutlets)
• A splash of olive oil
• Italian seasoning or Grill Seasoning
• 3 tablespoons Minced or Crushed Garlic 
• 1 cup of Sun-dried
• 1 cup of coconut creamer (I used Nut Pods)
• 1 cup of grape tomatoes halved
• ¼ cup Chicken broth
• A dash of lemon juice for that zesty zing
• Fresh herbs to garnish – because we’re fancy like that

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken to the skillet and cook about 4 min each side (chicken will cook further later)
4. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping with a wooden spoon
6. Add the garlic and sauté 1 min
7. Add sun-dried tomatoes and grape tomatos
8. Add dairy-free cream alternative to the skillet, stirring well.
9. Let mixture simmer for 5 minutes, stirring frequently..
10. Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it with the sauce.
11. Transfer the chicken to a casserole dish and pour sauce over the top.
12. Optional: Top with grated parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast (dairy free)
13. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
14. Garnish with fresh herbs and a splash of lemon juice before serving.

Serve this “Second Date” Chicken with a side of your favorite veggies or over a bed of quinoa, or cauliflower rice and watch the low carb, high protein magic unfold. 

So, there you have it – a dish that may not result in a proposal, but is sure to keep them coming back for more.