Lightened Marry Me Chicken Dip is a delicious and hearty dish perfect for gatherings and parties. It captures the essence of classic comfort food with a healthier twist, making it a guilt-free choice for everyone. With tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and zesty sun-dried tomatoes, this dip is sure to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.
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Why You’ll Love This Lightened Marry Me Chicken Dip
This Lightened Marry Me Chicken Dip combines a blend of flavors and textures that create a delightful experience. You’ll enjoy the creamy richness from the cheeses while the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs provide a vibrant kick.
Lightened Marry Me Chicken Dip
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1 minute.
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, the garlic–tomato mixture, cream cheese, Greek yogurt, mozzarella, Parmesan, basil, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 1-quart baking dish and smooth the top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until hot, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with extra chopped basil. Serve warm with vegetables, crackers, or pita chips.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!The best part? It’s lighter than traditional recipes, so you can indulge without the extra calories.
How to Make Lightened Marry Me Chicken Dip
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast (approximately 2 large breasts)
- 4 ounces light cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (2% or nonfat)
- ½ cup part-skim shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (plus additional for garnish)
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional minute.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, sautéed garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, cream cheese, Greek yogurt, mozzarella, Parmesan, chopped basil, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir until fully incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 1-quart baking dish, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the dip is hot, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
- Sprinkle extra fresh basil over the dip. Serve warm with sliced vegetables, whole grain crackers, or pita chips.
How to Serve Lightened Marry Me Chicken Dip
Lightened Marry Me Chicken Dip is versatile and can be paired with various dippers. Serve it with crisp vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers for a fresh crunch. For those who prefer a heartier option, whole grain crackers or pita chips offer a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy dip beautifully.
How to Store Lightened Marry Me Chicken Dip
If you have leftovers, storing them is easy. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or transfer the dip to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, just until warmed through.
Tips to Make Lightened Marry Me Chicken Dip Perfect
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For an even easier prep, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. Just shred and add to your mixture.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dip, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. For extra heat, feel free to add more.
- Garnish Creatively: Besides fresh basil, you can sprinkle some chopped green onions or even a handful of chopped cherry tomatoes for added color and flavor.
Flavor Variations
Want to mix things up? Here are a few flavor variations you can try:
- Add Spinach: Stir in a cup of chopped fresh spinach for added nutrients and a pop of color.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese. Cheddar or pepper jack can change the flavor profile beautifully.
- Buffalo Chicken: Incorporate buffalo sauce for a spicy twist that will appeal to fans of bold flavors.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix until just incorporated to keep the texture creamy and chunky.
- Serve Immediately: While this dip can be reheated, it’s best enjoyed fresh from the oven when it’s hot and bubbly.
- Double the Recipe: Planning a large gathering? Feel free to double the recipe for a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to be a hit!
FAQs About Lightened Marry Me Chicken Dip
Can I use different types of chicken?
Absolutely! While shredded chicken breast is recommended, you can use cooked chicken thighs for a juicier result. Just ensure the chicken is well cooked before incorporating it into the dip.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dip a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just remember to allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking for even cooking.
What can I use as a substitute for chicken?
If you’re looking for a meat-free option, you can use shredded jackfruit or a mix of beans for protein. Just adjust the flavors to fit your chosen substitute.
Final Thoughts
Lightened Marry Me Chicken Dip is not just a delectable dish; it’s a simple way to indulge in flavor without the guilt. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a comforting snack, this dip is an easy solution that doesn’t compromise on taste. Enjoy this creamy delight with your favorite dippers, and watch as it becomes a staple in your recipe collection!