Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and easy to make, look no further than Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken! This slow-cooked, melt-in-your-mouth chicken dish gets its name from the idea that it’s so delicious, your loved one will want to marry you after the first bite. Made with tender chicken breasts, a rich cream sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, this dish is not only a showstopper but also perfect for busy days since the slow cooker does all the work. Keep reading for the full recipe, step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations.

What is "Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken"?

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, flavorful chicken dish cooked low and slow in a crock pot. The dish is made with chicken breasts that are slow-cooked in a creamy sauce made from heavy cream, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs. The result is incredibly tender chicken with a rich, savory sauce that is perfect for serving over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice. The dish gets its name because it's said to be so good, it could make someone fall in love with you!

Ingredients List for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering dish:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (you can also use chicken thighs)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (drained if using oil-packed)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Ingredients List for Alternative Flavor Additions (Optional)

Here are a few ways you can customize the recipe based on your preferences:

• Mushrooms: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
• Spinach: Stir in 2 cups of fresh baby spinach at the end of cooking for added greens.
• Pancetta or Bacon: Crisp up some pancetta or bacon and sprinkle it over the top before serving for a smoky touch.
• Cheese Variations: Swap out the Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is versatile, and you can make it suit your preferences with some simple substitutions:

• Chicken Thighs: You can swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, more tender option.
• Half-and-Half Instead of Heavy Cream: Use half-and-half if you want a lighter sauce. The sauce will still be creamy but not as rich as when using heavy cream.
• Dairy-Free Option: Replace the cream with canned coconut milk and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute for a creamy, non-dairy version.
• Keto-Friendly: This recipe is naturally low in carbs, but you can serve it over zoodles (zucchini noodles) or cauliflower mash for a keto-friendly meal.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure that your sun-dried tomatoes and chicken broth are gluten-free, and you’re good to go. Most ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a breeze to make! Just a few minutes of prep, and your slow cooker will do the rest. Follow these simple steps for perfect results:

1. Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken breasts, ensuring they’re well-coated.

2. Sear the Chicken (Optional)

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This step is optional but helps add flavor and texture to the dish. After searing, transfer the chicken to the crock pot.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet (no need to wipe it clean), add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan and stir until it’s fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. Turn off the heat.

4. Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the crock pot with the chicken. Pour the cream sauce over the top, ensuring the chicken is mostly submerged in the sauce.

5. Slow Cook the Chicken

Cover the crock pot and cook on Low for 3-4 hours or on High for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).

6. Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will thicken the sauce as it finishes cooking.

7. Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is done, garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken over pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite low-carb side.

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

For the best Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken, follow these key steps to ensure a delicious, tender result every time:

1. Sear for Extra Flavor: Searing the chicken before slow cooking adds a deeper flavor and helps lock in moisture, but if you're short on time, you can skip this step.
2. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: For a smoother and creamier sauce, use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-shredded, which may not melt as well.
3. Add Cornstarch for a Thicker Sauce: If you want a thicker, richer sauce, don’t forget to stir in a cornstarch slurry in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
4. Check Doneness: Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it's fully cooked and tender.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to watch out for when making Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken:

• Overcooking the Chicken: While slow cooking is forgiving, chicken breasts can dry out if left to cook too long. Aim for 3-4 hours on Low or 2-3 hours on High to keep the chicken moist and tender.
• Not Using Enough Sauce: The sauce is the star of this dish, so don’t skimp! If it seems too thick while cooking, you can add an extra splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.
• Curdling the Cream: Avoid boiling the cream sauce before adding it to the slow cooker, as high heat can cause it to curdle. Keep the heat low and gentle.

Serving and Presentation Tips

For a beautifully presented Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken dish, follow these serving tips:

• Serve Over Pasta: The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with pasta—try it with fettuccine, penne, or even zoodles for a low-carb option.
• With a Side of Mashed Potatoes: Serve the chicken and sauce over creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all that flavorful sauce.
• Add a Side Salad: Balance the richness of the dish with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
• Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread is perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce.

How to Serve Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Once your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is done cooking, spoon the chicken onto plates or a serving platter. Ladle the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce generously over the top. You can serve this over:

• Pasta (like linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine)
• Mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash
• Rice or cauliflower rice
• Zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb option

Top the dish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Presentation Ideas for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

• Serve Family Style: Serve the chicken directly from the crock pot in a rustic, family-style setting. Garnish with fresh herbs and Parmesan for a stunning presentation.
• Individual Plates: Plate each chicken breast individually, spooning sauce over the top and garnishing with herbs and freshly ground pepper.
• Garnish with Extra Parmesan: Just before serving, sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese over the chicken for an elegant, cheesy finish.

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. You can assemble all the ingredients in the crock pot the night before, store it in the fridge, and cook it the next day.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to rehydrate the sauce.
• Freezer-Friendly: You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this recipe without a crock pot?
Yes! You can make Marry Me Chicken on the stovetop by searing the chicken, then simmering it in the sauce until the chicken is cooked through (about 20-25 minutes). Finish it off in the oven for a few minutes to thicken the sauce.

2. Can I add vegetables to the crock pot?
Absolutely! Vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be added during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a more complete meal.

3. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken breasts before adding them to the crock pot. Frozen chicken can cause the sauce to become watery and may take longer to cook.

4. How do I prevent the cream from curdling in the crock pot?
To prevent curdling, avoid adding cold cream to a hot crock pot. Let the cream warm up a bit before adding it, or add it at the end of cooking and stir it in gently.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is the perfect blend of tender, juicy chicken and a creamy, savory sauce that’s easy to make and sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it for a romantic dinner, family meal, or special occasion, this dish delivers bold flavors and a rich, satisfying texture that everyone will love. With its simple ingredients and slow-cooker convenience, it’s bound to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite! 🍽

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