Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Looking for a delicious, creamy, and savory dish that’s easy to make and will leave your family (or special someone) asking for more? This Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is the perfect dish for you! The tender chicken breasts are cooked slowly in a rich, creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, resulting in a meal that is so flavorful, it just might make someone fall in love. The best part? It’s made in a slow cooker, so you can simply set it and forget it! This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy date night dinner. Read on for the full recipe, step-by-step instructions, and tips to make this irresistible dish.

What is Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken?

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, dreamy chicken dish cooked slowly in a crock pot (slow cooker) until the chicken becomes incredibly tender and the flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes meld into a rich, savory sauce. The name comes from the idea that the dish is so delicious, it’s worthy of a marriage proposal. Originally made in a skillet, this slow cooker version makes the recipe even easier, allowing the flavors to develop over time for an even richer taste.

Ingredients List for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if you prefer)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¾ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (packed in oil, drained)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Optional:

• Red pepper flakes (for heat)
• Fresh lemon juice (for a bright finish)

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to your preferences. Here are a few suggestions for substitutions and variations:

• Chicken Thighs: For a juicier, more tender result, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.
• Cream: You can use half-and-half for a lighter version or even coconut cream if you prefer a dairy-free alternative.
• Cheese: Parmesan cheese works beautifully in this dish, but you can swap it for Pecorino Romano or Asiago if you want a slightly different flavor.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: If you're not a fan of sun-dried tomatoes, you can replace them with cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers.
• Add Veggies: Consider adding spinach or mushrooms toward the end of the cooking process for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for a touch of heat.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken step by step:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides.
• You can also sear the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat with a bit of oil for about 2-3 minutes per side to give it extra flavor and texture. This step is optional but recommended if you have the time.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

• In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, oregano, and thyme. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
• Adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you like some heat.

Step 3: Add Everything to the Crock Pot

• Place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom of the crock pot.
• Pour the creamy sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Chicken

• Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, depending on your schedule. The chicken should be tender and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

• If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to form a slurry. Stir this into the sauce about 30 minutes before the end of the cooking time. Let it cook until the sauce thickens.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

• Once the chicken is cooked, remove the lid and stir the sauce to ensure it’s smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
• Serve the chicken breasts with a generous spoonful of sauce on top, and garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for added freshness.

How to Cook Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Season and (Optionally) Sear Chicken: Season the chicken breasts for maximum flavor. Searing adds an extra layer of flavor but is optional.
2. Prepare the Sauce: Mix the cream, broth, Parmesan, and seasonings into a rich sauce.
3. Slow Cook: Place the chicken and sauce into the crock pot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. Thicken the Sauce: (Optional) Add cornstarch slurry for a thicker sauce during the last 30 minutes.
5. Serve and Garnish: Serve the tender chicken with the creamy sauce, garnished with fresh herbs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken:

• Overcooking the Chicken: While slow cookers are convenient, it’s easy to overcook chicken breasts, making them dry. Be sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it's cooked to 165°F (75°C) but not overcooked.
• Skipping the Searing Step: While optional, searing the chicken before placing it in the crock pot adds depth of flavor. It’s worth the extra 5 minutes if you can spare the time.
• Forgetting to Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce toward the end of cooking and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you’re using low-sodium broth, you may need to add a bit more salt for full flavor.
• Not Thinning or Thickening the Sauce: Depending on how much moisture the chicken releases during cooking, your sauce might be too thick or thin. Use cornstarch to thicken or add a splash of chicken broth to thin it out.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a rich and creamy dish, so it pairs well with lighter or starchy sides to soak up the delicious sauce.

• Serving Suggestions: Serve the chicken with a side of pasta (like fettuccine), mashed potatoes, or rice to absorb the creamy sauce. You can also serve it alongside steamed or roasted vegetables for a lighter option.
• Plating: Place a chicken breast on a plate with a generous amount of sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve with a side of crusty bread to scoop up the extra sauce.
• Sauce Finishing Touch: A drizzle of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a burst of flavor and a touch of color to the dish.

How to Serve Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

• Family Style: Serve the chicken straight from the crock pot at the table, letting everyone help themselves.
• Plated: Plate individual servings with sauce spooned generously over each chicken breast, and add your choice of side dishes.
• For a Romantic Dinner: Garnish with fresh herbs, serve with a glass of wine, and enjoy a cozy, intimate dinner!

Presentation Ideas for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

• Serve on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs and extra sun-dried tomatoes.
• Plate the chicken over a bed of pasta or mashed potatoes for an elegant presentation.
• Add a sprinkle of Parmesan and a few leaves of basil for a beautiful finishing touch.

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce and season the chicken ahead of time. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble everything in the crock pot.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a little extra chicken broth to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well. Let the chicken and sauce cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and will hold up well to the long cooking time in the slow cooker.

2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free version.

3. Can I make this recipe in a pressure cooker?
Yes, you can make Marry Me Chicken in a pressure cooker (like an Instant Pot). Sear the chicken first using the sauté function, add the sauce, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Use the quick release method and follow with the same steps for thickening the sauce if needed.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, include red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a drizzle of hot sauce in the sauce. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a special dinner. The ease of using a slow cooker allows you to achieve tender, juicy chicken with minimal effort. With its creamy sauce, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant herbs, this dish is sure to win over anyone you serve it to. Give it a try tonight, and enjoy the delicious flavors that might just inspire someone to pop the question!

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