There’s something absolutely captivating about the way the scent of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes fills my kitchen as I prepare the Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken. This dish has a reputation that precedes it—its tender chicken enveloped in a creamy, decadent sauce is said to have the power to inspire proposals! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special dinner, this slow-cooked delight transforms simple ingredients into a comforting masterpiece that rivals your favorite restaurant meals.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability; you can easily swap in veggies for a vegetarian twist or even adjust the spiciness to suit your taste. Cooking doesn’t need to be complicated to be impressive, and I promise you, this creamy chicken dish strikes that perfect balance. Let’s dive in, and I’ll guide you through every step to create a meal that will leave your loved ones asking for seconds—and maybe even that marriage proposal!
Why is Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: This dish combines creamy goodness with savory sun-dried tomatoes and herbs, making each bite an explosion of taste.
Effortless Process: With just a few steps, you can set it and forget it, allowing your slow cooker to work its magic while you attend to other things.
Adaptable Delight: Whether you want to spice it up or go vegetarian with hearty vegetables, this recipe is flexible to suit any palate.
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Perfect for intimate dinners or family gatherings, it’s sure to impress the people you care about most.
Make-Ahead Marvel: Cook it in advance to let flavors deepen overnight, saving time for those busy weeknights without sacrificing taste!
With all these fantastic features, it’s easy to see why this dish deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation!
Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts – Use boneless, skinless for the most tender bites.
• Olive Oil – Ideal for searing; feel free to swap with any cooking oil you prefer.
For the Creamy Sauce
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth that enhances the dish’s rich flavors.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Produces a luscious sauce; replace with half-and-half for a lighter version but note the texture change.
• Chicken Broth (0.5 cup) – Enriches the sauce flavor; vegetable broth is a great alternative for vegetarian Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes (0.33 cup, chopped) – Provides a sweet and tangy kick; you can substitute with fresh tomatoes but adjust cooking time.
• Parmesan Cheese (0.25 cup, grated) – Adds a savory umami touch; for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast.
• Dried Oregano & Basil (1 tsp each) – Key herbs that create that comforting home-cooked taste; fresh herbs can be used in the last half-hour of cooking for more vibrancy.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder (0.5 tsp each) – Optional but these spices layer extra flavor into the dish.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
For the Finishing Touches
• Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped) – Adds a fresh, vibrant note as garnish; any fresh herbs of your choice can work here as well.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Sprinkle in for a touch of heat; adjust based on your spice tolerance.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re well on your way to crafting a Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken that will become a beloved staple in your home!
How to Make Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
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Season Chicken: Begin by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This will enhance the flavors of your chicken.
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Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned chicken for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer it to the slow cooker for cooking.
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Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. This step elevates the flavor of the dish, so don’t skip it! Add it to the slow cooker.
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Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together heavy cream, chicken broth, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and dried basil until everything is well combined.
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Combine in Slow Cooker: Pour the cream mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring the chicken is mostly covered with the sauce.
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Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be tender and easy to shred when done.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes at this point.
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Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve this delicious chicken over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Optional: Pair this dish with a side of steamed vegetables for an extra pop of color and nutrients!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken?
Creating a delightful meal that complements your main dish can elevate any dining experience. Let’s explore some delicious pairings that will make your dinner truly memorable.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
The buttery texture of mashed potatoes balances the rich creaminess of the chicken, soaking up every delicious bite of sauce. -
Garlic Bread:
Crisp on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread is perfect for mopping up the luscious sauce, turning your meal into a comforting feast. -
Roasted Vegetables:
A colorful assortment of roasted vegetables adds a delightful crunch and fresh flavors, enhancing the overall texture and health of your meal. -
Cauliflower Rice:
For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice offers a light, fluffy base that absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully without overwhelming the dish. -
Steamed Asparagus:
Bright green and tender, asparagus brings a fresh, earthy flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the rich chicken. It’s also visually appealing on the plate! -
Side Salad:
A crisp side salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavors, keeping your taste buds excited. -
White Wine:
A chilled glass of Chardonnay harmonizes with the creamy sauce and enhances the overall experience, making it perfect for date nights at home. -
Dark Chocolate Mousse:
To finish off your lovely dinner, a silky dark chocolate mousse provides a sweet yet sophisticated touch that complements the meal beautifully.
With these pairings, you’ll craft a meal that’s not just satisfying but also leaves everyone raving about the incredible flavors!
Storage Tips for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Ensure the chicken is fully cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating: Gently reheat on low heat in a saucepan, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce thickens. This keeps your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken creamy and delicious!
Make-Ahead: This dish is fantastic for meal prep, as the flavors deepen overnight. Prepare it in advance for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week!
Make Ahead Options
These Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken delights are perfect for meal prep! You can season and sear the chicken, then prepare the creamy sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the marinated chicken and sauce separately. When you’re ready to cook, pour the sauce over the chicken in your slow cooker and let it work its magic! This not only saves you time but also enhances flavor as the ingredients meld overnight. For optimal quality, be sure to cover everything tightly to prevent drying out. Once cooked, this dish remains just as delicious for up to 4 days in the fridge, so you can enjoy it for quick lunches or dinners without sacrificing taste!
Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
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Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with thick slices of cauliflower or large portobello mushrooms for a hearty alternative that’s just as satisfying.
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Add Vegetables: Stir in hearty veggies like bell peppers or fresh spinach during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition and color to your dish.
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Spice it Up: Kick up the heat by adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an exciting pop of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
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Herb Infusion: Swap out dried herbs for fresh ones, like basil and oregano, added in the last 30 minutes for a burst of freshness that brightens the dish.
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Creamy Dairy-Free Variation: Use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a creamy texture that brings unique taste while being dairy-free.
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Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate kalamata olives or capers for a briny flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce, creating a delightful Mediterranean flair.
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Zesty Citrus: Add in a splash of lemon juice or zest at the end for a refreshing, bright flavor that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the sauce.
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Noodle or Rice Base: Serve over different bases like egg noodles, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a fun twist that provides variety with each meal.
Dive into these variations and craft your personalized Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken!
Expert Tips for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
• Searing Matters: Searing the chicken beforehand creates a beautiful crust, enhancing flavor through the Maillard reaction for your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken.
• Watch for Hot Spots: Slow cookers can have hot spots; rotate the chicken occasionally to ensure even cooking throughout.
• Temperature Control: To maintain cream sauce stability, always keep the cooking temperature on low. This prevents curdling and helps achieve that silky texture.
• Fixing Separation: If you notice sauce separation, whisk it vigorously to restore the smooth consistency you want for your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken.
• Taste Test: Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning before serving; this small step will elevate the dish to perfection!
Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken?
Absolutely! For tender, juicy results, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Look for chicken that’s fresh, with no dark spots or discoloration. If you prefer, you can also use thigh meat for a richer flavor, but be sure to adjust cooking times as needed.
What is the best way to store leftovers from Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken?
Very good question! You can store leftover Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just allow it to cool down to room temperature before sealing. If you’re looking to keep it longer, consider freezing it, which is a breeze!
Can I freeze Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken?
Yes, you can! To freeze, let the dish cool completely and then portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags. Label with the date and it will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently over low heat.
What should I do if my sauce separates while cooking?
Don’t worry; it’s easy to fix! If your sauce happens to separate, just whisk it vigorously before serving. This will help to bring it back together! Ensuring you cook on low and keeping an eye on your slow cooker will also help maintain a smooth texture.
Is this dish safe for people with dairy allergies?
Great question! Since this recipe includes heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, it’s not suitable for those with dairy allergies. However, you can make a delicious dairy-free version by substituting the cream with coconut cream or a nut-based cream and swapping Parmesan with nutritional yeast for that umami flavor.
How can I adapt Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken for a vegetarian diet?
Absolutely, there’s so much room for creativity! You can replace the chicken with thick slices of cauliflower or large portobello mushrooms. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time; they may cook faster than chicken. Adding hearty vegetables like spinach or bell peppers in the last hour can also give it a wholesome boost!
Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken: Your New Comfort Food Obsession
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour into slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, chicken broth, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, oregano, and basil.
- Pour cream mixture over chicken in slow cooker, ensuring it is mostly covered.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until chicken is fork-tender.
- Taste the sauce before serving; adjust seasoning as needed. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.