Name: Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 240 min
Total time: 250 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts ((tenderloins also work well here)); 1 cup chicken broth; 3 tablespoons cornstarch; 3/4 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 2 tablespoons butter; 1/3 cup sun dried tomatoes ((drained and chopped)); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; fresh basil for garnish

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Whenever I think about the ultimate comfort food, Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken comes to mind. This dish has a special place in my heart, as it’s the kind of meal that brings friends and family together around the table. I remember the first time I made it for a cozy gathering on a chilly winter evening. As the aroma filled my kitchen, everyone could hardly wait to dig in! The tender, juicy chicken paired with creamy sauce and just a hint of spice is simply irresistible.

There’s something magical about the combination of flavors in this dish that makes it perfect for a romantic dinner or a family gathering. The creamy richness of the sauce envelops the chicken beautifully, and every bite feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re cooking for your loved ones on Valentine’s Day or just treating yourself to a satisfying meal, this recipe never disappoints. I often find myself dreaming of enjoying this dish on a quiet night, savoring its comforting flavors as I unwind from the day. The beauty of the Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is that it’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen.

So, the next time you need a recipe that’s sure to impress, look no further than this Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
4 hr 10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
240 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
650 kcal

Protein:
45 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free

Fat:
50 g

Tools Used:
Slow Cooker

The Best Thing About This Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

It’s Incredibly Convenient

One of the best things about Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is the convenience it offers. You can throw all the ingredients into the slow cooker in the morning, set it, and forget it! By dinner time, you’ll have a delicious meal with minimal effort. This is perfect for busy weeknights or when you have company coming over.

Flavorful and Rich

The blend of spices and creamy goodness makes this dish truly special. Using heavy cream and chicken broth creates a rich sauce that pairs beautifully with the chicken. You’ll savor every mouthful of this delightful dish, as the flavors meld together to create a symphony of taste.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a romantic date night, this recipe fits right in. It’s versatile enough for any occasion, making it a must-have in your recipe repertoire. The festive touch of sun-dried tomatoes adds a pop of color and flavor that elevates this dish to a new level.

Great Leftovers

I always look forward to leftovers when I make Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken. The flavors continue to deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day. You can serve it over rice, pasta, or even on its own with crispy bread for a satisfying meal.

Family Friendly

This dish is a hit with both kids and adults alike. The creamy sauce and tender chunks of chicken are appealing to family members of all ages. If you’re looking for a way to please the entire family, this recipe is sure to do the trick!

What to Gather for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

When it comes to the ingredients for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken, each one plays a vital role in creating a rich and flavorful dish. The combination of chicken, heavy cream, and spices meld together beautifully to create an unforgettable meal.

2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, this chicken is tender and juicy, absorbing all the flavors of the sauce.
1 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor of the chicken.
3 tablespoons cornstarch: Helps to thicken the sauce, giving it a creamy texture.
3/4 cup heavy cream: This ingredient creates a rich and luscious sauce that complements the chicken perfectly.
1 tablespoon minced garlic: Adds a wonderful aroma and flavor that takes this dish to the next level.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A delightful blend of herbs that infuses the dish with warmth and familiarity.
1 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a subtle kick that balances the creaminess of the sauce.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
½ teaspoon paprika: Adds a touch of smokiness and color.
½ teaspoon onion powder: Brings a savory depth to the sauce.
2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps with the sauce’s silkiness.
⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped: Provides a tangy contrast that brightens the overall flavor.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: A finishing touch that adds a salty, nutty flavor.
Fresh basil for garnish: This vibrant herb adds freshness and a pop of color to your dish.

How to Cook Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Cooking Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is an enjoyable experience, and following these simple steps will yield a delicious result. Prepare yourself for an aromatic journey that will have you eagerly anticipating dinner time.

Start by placing the chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker. This is the heart of the meal, where all the flavors will come together. Make sure the pieces are evenly spaced so they cook thoroughly.
In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and cornstarch. This mixture will help thicken your sauce, making it creamy and luscious. Pour this over the chicken in the slow cooker.
Next, add the heavy cream on top. The cream will create a rich and velvety texture in your sauce. It’s important to use full-fat cream for the best results.
Sprinkle the minced garlic and the Italian seasoning over the mixture. These ingredients will infuse their flavors into the sauce and chicken as it cooks. Use a spoon to gently mix them in.
Top with butter and the sun-dried tomatoes. The butter will melt and add richness, while the tomatoes bring a slightly tangy flavor that balances the dish.
Cover and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or on low for 6 to 7 hours. The chicken is done when it’s tender and easy to shred. If you’re cooking on high, check for doneness around the 3-hour mark.
Once cooked, stir in the Parmesan cheese before serving. This will add a delightful nuttiness and creaminess to your sauce. Make sure to mix it well so it melts into the dish.
Serve the chicken whole or shred it if desired. It pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. Each bite should be creamy and bursting with flavor!
Garnish with fresh basil before enjoying your meal. The basil adds a pop of color and a fresh taste that elevates the dish.
Store leftovers in an airtight container. You’ll love having this meal ready for lunch or another dinner!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking Times Matter: Cooking times can vary based on the size of your chicken pieces and the model of your slow cooker. Always check for tenderness to ensure it’s properly cooked.
Thickening Tips: If your sauce needs thickening, simply whisk a little more cornstarch with water and add it to the slow cooker during the last hour.
Flavor Enhancements: Feel free to add additional herbs like thyme or oregano for more flavor complexity.
Serving Ideas: This dish is great served over rice, pasta, or even with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Making Adjustments

There are always ways to make a recipe your own, and Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is no exception. Here are some tips to help you customize this dish to your liking.

Storage: To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This dish freezes well! To freeze, let it cool, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Pairing: Serve this meal with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced dinner.
Ingredient Variations: Try adding other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the slow cooker for added nutrition and flavor.
Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick!
Garnishing Options: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can be used instead of basil for a different flavor profile.

Serve This Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken With

When it comes to serving Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken, the options are endless! Here are some delightful pairings and serving ideas to enhance your meal experience:

Steamed Rice: A classic pairing, serving the chicken over fluffy white or brown rice allows you to soak up the creamy sauce.
Pasta: Toss the chicken with your favorite pasta shape to create a comforting and satisfying dish.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a fantastic base for this dish, providing a hearty texture that complements the sauce.
Garlic Bread: Serve it alongside some warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up all that flavorful sauce.
Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance the richness of the Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken.
Wine Pairing: Consider serving a light white wine or sparkling water to refresh your palate.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even weeknight meals when you want something comforting and easy.

FAQ

You can serve Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken with a variety of sides. Fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes work wonderfully to soak up the rich sauce. For a lighter option, consider a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. Pasta is another great choice, allowing you to enjoy the creamy sauce in a different way. Don’t forget to include some garlic bread to round out the meal!

Absolutely! One of the best features of Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is that it can be made ahead of time. You can prepare all the ingredients and put them in your slow cooker in the morning. Then, just set it to cook during the day, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready by dinner time. You can also store leftovers in the fridge or freeze them for later, making it a great meal prep option!

Yes, Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is perfect for meal prep! Its flavors develop beautifully over time, making it even more delicious if you store it in the fridge for a day before eating. You can portion it out into containers and pair it with different sides throughout the week. Plus, it reheats well, so you can enjoy it several times without losing quality.

You can use frozen chicken in Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken, but it’s important to adjust the cooking time. If using frozen chicken, increase the cooking time by 1 to 2 hours on low. Always ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption. The slow cooking method will make the chicken tender and flavorful, even from frozen!

Conclusion

The Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is truly a special recipe that combines convenience, flavor, and comfort in one dish. With its creamy sauce and deliciously tender chicken, it’s bound to impress anyone you share it with. I encourage you to try this recipe soon; your taste buds will thank you for it! It’s a delightful meal that brings warmth and joy to any table.