Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a recipe that will impress your significant other, family, or dinner guests, then this Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is the dish for you! With its rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfect seasoning, it's a sure way to win over anyone’s heart. The name itself comes from how irresistible and delicious the flavors are—people joke that this dish is so good it might lead to a marriage proposal! Keep reading to learn how to prepare this flavorful, easy-to-make meal in your crock pot.

What is “Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken”?

“Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken” is a rich, creamy, and flavorful chicken dish made with tender chicken breasts, sundried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. All the ingredients slow-cook together in a crock pot to create a melt-in-your-mouth meal with deep, savory flavors. The sauce is velvety smooth and seasoned with garlic, herbs, and a touch of spice, making it the perfect dish for a special dinner or even a casual weeknight meal. The best part? The slow cooker does most of the work, leaving you free to focus on other things!

Ingredients List for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

To make this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• ½ cup sundried tomatoes, drained and chopped
• 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

These ingredients create a rich, creamy sauce and give the chicken its signature melt-in-your-mouth texture. Sundried tomatoes provide a nice tangy contrast to the creaminess of the sauce, while herbs like oregano and thyme add depth of flavor.

Additional Ingredients for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

While the core ingredients make this dish amazing, you can always add a few more elements to enhance the flavor:

• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (if you prefer a bit of heat)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for a tangy, zesty kick)
• ½ cup mushrooms, sliced (adds an earthy note to the dish)
• 2 tablespoons butter (for extra richness)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to brighten up the sauce)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (for added depth)

These optional ingredients allow you to customize the recipe to your liking, giving the dish a more complex flavor profile if you desire.

Substitutions and Variations

While the original recipe for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is absolutely delicious, you may want to tweak it based on personal preferences or dietary needs. Here are some common substitutions and variations you can try:

• Chicken thighs instead of breasts: For a juicier, more tender result, use bone-in or boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.
• Dairy-free option: Replace the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream. Swap out the Parmesan for a dairy-free cheese alternative.
• Low-carb version: To keep the dish keto-friendly, make sure not to use any thickeners like cornstarch or flour. The sauce will thicken naturally as it simmers.
• Vegetarian option: You can swap the chicken for tofu or hearty vegetables like cauliflower or portobello mushrooms for a plant-based version.
• Gluten-free option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels on your sundried tomatoes and chicken broth to ensure they are gluten-free.

These variations will allow you to make the recipe suit a variety of tastes or dietary restrictions, while still delivering on flavor and texture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Ready to get started? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken in your slow cooker:

1. Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried oregano on both sides. Set them aside.
2. Sauté the garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once heated, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the liquids: Pour the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese into the skillet with the garlic. Stir well to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 3-5 minutes. This will help meld the flavors and slightly thicken the sauce.
4. Transfer to the crock pot: Pour half of the sauce into the bottom of the crock pot. Add the seasoned chicken breasts, then pour the remaining sauce over the chicken.
5. Add sundried tomatoes: Scatter the chopped sundried tomatoes over the chicken and sauce.
6. Cook on low: Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Cooking times may vary depending on your crock pot model, so check for doneness using a meat thermometer (the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F).
7. Finish with fresh herbs: Once done, remove the chicken and stir in the fresh basil, if using, into the sauce. This will add a bright, fresh flavor to the dish.
8. Serve: Plate the chicken with the creamy sauce poured generously over the top. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.

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

Cooking Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken couldn’t be easier! Here’s a quick rundown of the steps for a foolproof result:

1. Season chicken breasts with herbs and spices for maximum flavor.
2. Sauté garlic in olive oil to build a flavorful base.
3. Combine liquids (chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan) to create a creamy sauce.
4. Layer chicken and sauce in the crock pot, with sundried tomatoes sprinkled on top.
5. Slow cook on low for 4-6 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a straightforward recipe, there are a few common mistakes that can impact the final result:

• Not seasoning the chicken properly: Skimping on seasoning will make your chicken bland. Be sure to season both sides of the chicken breasts well with salt, pepper, and spices.
• Cooking too long: While slow cookers are great for tenderizing meat, cooking the chicken too long can dry it out. Stick to the recommended cooking time and check the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
• Adding too much liquid: Resist the urge to add extra chicken broth. The crock pot traps moisture and the sauce will naturally thicken as it simmers.
• Skipping the garlic sauté step: This step enhances the depth of flavor. Raw garlic can taste sharp, while sautéed garlic gives a sweet, mellow flavor.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Now that your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is ready, how should you serve it to wow your guests?

• Serve with pasta: The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with a bed of fettuccine or spaghetti.
• Over rice: Serve the chicken and sauce over a bed of fluffy white rice or risotto.
• With mashed potatoes: For a comfort food spin, creamy mashed potatoes make the perfect companion to this dish.
• On a bed of sautéed spinach: For a healthier option, serve the chicken on top of sautéed spinach or other greens.

Presentation Ideas for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

To make your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken visually stunning:

• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color.
• Use colorful side dishes like roasted vegetables or a green salad to brighten up the plate.
• Serve in individual bowls with a drizzle of extra sauce over the top and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe Tips

To ensure your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken turns out perfectly every time:

• Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture. Pre-grated Parmesan can be waxy and less flavorful.
• Don’t skip the sundried tomatoes—they add a tangy, sweet contrast that makes the sauce irresistible.
• Add the fresh herbs last to preserve their bright flavor. Cooking them too long can make them lose their vibrancy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Q: Can I freeze Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken?
A: Absolutely. Freeze the chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: It’s best to use thawed chicken for this recipe to ensure even cooking. If using frozen chicken, increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is the ultimate comfort food dish that’s sure to impress. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for both special occasions and easy weeknight dinners. Whether you're looking to win someone’s heart or simply make a delicious meal, this recipe is a must-try. Give it a go, and who knows? You might just receive a proposal at the dinner table!

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