Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

Posted on

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken served with herbs and creamy sauce

Crockpot Recipes

The Best Crockpot Marry Me Chicken: A Delicious Journey to Flavor

You know those recipes that, when they cross your path, feel like a cosmic sign that you needed them at that moment in your life? For me, that was the infamous Crockpot Marry Me Chicken. The first time I stumbled upon it was during one of those late-night scroll sessions on Pinterest, you know the kind — where you tell yourself you’ll just quickly check what everyone else is cooking for dinner, only to find yourself three hours later, knee-deep in mouth-watering food photography and recipe ideas.

I remember it vividly: the kitchen was dim with the soft glow of my fairy lights, the scent of something roasting in the oven mixing with the faint trace of the coffee I had spilled earlier (oops). I had a few friends coming over for dinner, and my ambitious plan was to impress them without turning into a certified kitchen disaster. I didn’t want to be the host huffing and puffing in a chaotic kitchen; I wanted simplicity with a dash of elegance. Marry Me Chicken stood out like a beacon of hope amidst the list of complicated dishes. Its promise was tantalizing: tender chicken swimming in a creamy, dreamy sauce with bold sun-dried tomatoes and that lovely kiss of garlic.

As I clicked through the recipe, I found myself chuckling at its title. Marry Me Chicken? Really? It sounded like a romantic comedy plot where the key to winning over someone’s heart was a slow cooker and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Honestly, it felt a bit over-the-top, but you know what? I was ready for a night of good food, heartwarming laughter, and hopefully a few poetic moments — with or without love proclamations.

Before I knew it, I had brought the ingredients home, and although I was a bit skeptical about just how much love a pot of chicken could deliver, I tapped into my culinary instincts and dove in. Let me tell you, the smells wafting through the house as it simmered made me feel like I was living in a romantic film. I knew I had something special on my hands, and by the end of the night, my friends were swooning — not just over the food but, I’d like to think, the atmosphere I had dared to create. Spoiler alert: everyone left with a newfound appreciation for easy weeknight dinners that feel like healthy comfort food.

So here we go, let’s dive into this beautiful mess of a recipe together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor: Seriously, this dish is like a hug in bowl form. Just toss everything in the Crockpot, and let it do its magic.
  • Picky Eater Approved: I’ve served this to kids and adults alike. Trust me, everyone digs it. Healthy comfort food is where it’s at!
  • Leftovers Heaven: If you manage to have any leftovers (which is rare around here), they make fabulous lunches for the next day or even a late-night snack, leaving you feeling like you’re winning at adulthood.
  • Meal Prep Champion: Need a quick family meal? You’ve got it! It’s perfect for meal planning chicken or for those nights when you’re feeling particularly busy.
  • Gourmet Feel at Home: It tastes fancy enough to impress a date or that friend who always eats before arriving — you know, the type that rates your cooking on a five-star scale?
  • Versatile Pairings: Whether it’s creamy pasta, fluffy rice, or a light salad — this sauce sings, making it the best high protein high calorie meal to throw down with different sides!

What Makes This Recipe Special?

Oh, where do I begin? The magic happens with the sun-dried tomatoes, which are like little jewels of flavor. They bring a sweet yet tangy profile that melds beautifully with the richness of heavy cream. And don’t get me started on the Parmesan cheese! It adds that cheesy goodness that envelopes everything, making this a dish you’ll find repeating on your culinary roster.

The Italian seasoning rounds it all out nicely, giving it that renowned Italian flair without blasting you with too many competing flavors. You’ll find yourself using these techniques and ingredients in other dishes — I have! Sometimes, I might even add some sautéed spinach or mushrooms — just to up the veggie game.

Now, let’s get to the nitty-gritty of making Crockpot Marry Me Chicken yourself. Buckle up, my friend; we’re headed into the delicious details!

Ingredients

Here are the main ingredients you’ll need for this luscious dish:

  • 4 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The star of our show! Simple, yet versatile.
  • 1 Cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Make sure they’re packed in oil for that extra flavor. You can sub fresh tomatoes if you want, but trust me, the sun-dried ones add that layered complexity this dish craves. Yes, do not skip this!
  • 1 Cup Heavy Cream: Ah, the cream that dreams are made of — it binds everything, making it super indulgent. Sometimes I sneak in a little less to make it a tad lighter, but then again, if not now — when?
  • 1 Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: No blocks here, we need that fine grate to melt beautifully into the sauce. You can also use Pecorino Romano if you’d like that little bite.
  • 3 Cloves of Garlic: Minced, please. Garlic is the best kitchen perfume if you ask me.
  • 1 Teaspoon Italian Seasoning: If you’re feeling feisty, go ahead and create your own mix with oregano, thyme, and basil.
  • Salt and Pepper to Taste: Simple seasonings go a long way.
  • Fresh Basil for Garnish: Absolutely crucial — it brightens up the dish visually and adds that lovely fresh kick.

Now, you may ask what could go wrong. Honestly, don’t overcrowd the chicken or the sauce won’t have enough room to work its magic. Also, don’t rush the cooking time; chicken cooked too quickly can end up dry. We want moist, tender love, people!

How to Make It Step-by-Step

Alright, let’s get into the fun part — the cooking! Here’s how you can create this delicious masterpiece right in your cozy kitchen:

  1. Season the Chicken: Begin by placing your chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. I like to sprinkle them generously with salt and pepper, enjoying that straightforward, uncomplicated seasoning. You want some flavor, not bland chicken!

  2. Create the Sauce: In a bowl, combine your sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. As you mix, the scents swirl together into a fragrant delight. I often lose a little bit of my focus here, getting distracted by the dreamy aroma wafting up. This is when I think, "Okay, this dish is going to rock!"

  3. Pour It Over: Gently pour the creamy concoction over the seasoned chicken. Give it a light stir to ensure the chicken gets love from all angles — but honestly, it will soak in while it cooks!

  4. Cook, Don’t Rush: Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This is where the real magic happens. As it cooks, the chicken gets tender, almost like it’s falling apart at your gentle touch. You might catch yourself checking in on it too often just because the smell is utterly irresistible.

  5. Shred the Chicken: Once it’s done cooking, grab two forks and shred that chicken right in the sauce. Oops, a little sauce might splatter, but who cares? You’re about to eat deliciousness!

  6. Garnish and Serve: Top it off with fresh basil, adding a touch of color and freshness. You can serve this creamy chicken over pasta, rice, or even on a bed of roasted vegetables for a fantastic low-carb option. Me? I can never resist the allure of a good pile of buttery pasta.

And just like that, my friends, you’re ready to serve up some love on a plate!

Tips for Best Results

  • Check the Chicken: Timing is everything; if you are using frozen chicken, it may need additional cooking time, so always check internal temperatures. You want a nice, juicy 165°F (74°C) inside.
  • Make it Zesty: If you’re feeling adventurous, a squeeze of lemon right before serving gives a bright lift!
  • Freeze Extras: I often double the recipe and freeze half for later. Just think of future-you being all smug because you have meals ready to go!

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

This recipe is a rock star, so it can take some tweaks:

  • If you need to avoid dairy, try a non-dairy heavy cream alternative and nutritional yeast for that cheesy aspect.
  • Swap sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a completely different flavor profile.
  • Attempt it with a different protein: shrimp or tofu can also work if you’re mixing it up.

However you choose to adapt the recipe, just keep an open heart and taste along the way!

Directions

Pairing it with some buttered noodles feels like heaven, but if you want a healthier touch, serve over cauliflower rice or with a crisp salad. This meal just begs for a glass of white wine or even just sparkling water with a lemon wedge. Oh, and I think a cozy rom-com is the ideal accompaniment while you indulge!

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Let’s face it: leftovers are the gift that keeps on giving! Just let the chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will hang out nicely in the fridge for about 3-4 days.

When reheating, you may want to add a splash of cream or broth to keep it creamy and dreamy.

Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips

Want an easy day later on? Prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to toss them in the slow cooker. You can also freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in labeled freezer bags and enjoy it later — there’s magic there.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overcooking: Keep an eye on those cooking times! Chicken should be tender, not dried out.
  • Undersalting: Don’t be afraid to season your ingredients well; it’s the difference between ‘meh’ and ‘wow’!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes! Just ensure it cooks long enough so it’s tender. You might even have to adjust the times.

Can leftovers be frozen?
Absolutely! That’s the beauty. When freezing, make sure to leave room for expansion in your container.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Try using half-and-half or even a non-dairy cream alternative to suit your dietary preferences!

Cooking Tools You’ll Need

  • A dependable Crockpot — I recommend any automatic model where you can set the timer.
  • A sharp knife to shred the chicken and mince the garlic.
  • Measuring cups and spoons for precision, not that we’re aiming at perfection — just tasty results!

Final Thoughts

If you made it this far, you’re officially ready to tackle Crockpot Marry Me Chicken and bring some comfort and joy into your kitchen. Its rich flavors and minimal effort make it a treasure for anyone who wants to impress — or simply feed themselves well! I genuinely hope this recipe wraps you in warmth and perhaps even fuels some shared meals with laughter and love.

I can’t wait to hear about your own adventures with this dish. If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend! Happy cooking!

Delicious f102aecb24

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

A creamy and flavorful chicken dish with sun-dried tomatoes and garlic, perfect for impressing guests with minimal effort.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 650 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 4 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts The star of our show! Simple, yet versatile.
  • 1 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Make sure they’re packed in oil for extra flavor.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Ah, the cream that dreams are made of.
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese No blocks here, we need that fine grate to melt beautifully.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced, please.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Feel free to create your own mix.
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Simple seasonings go a long way.
  • as needed Fresh Basil for Garnish Absolutely crucial for brightness.

Instructions
 

Cooking Instructions

  • Begin by placing your chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Sprinkle them generously with salt and pepper.
  • In a bowl, combine sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.
  • Pour the creamy mixture over the seasoned chicken, ensuring even coverage.
  • Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
  • Once done cooking, shred the chicken in the sauce using two forks.
  • Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Serve over pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Reheat with a splash of cream or broth to retain creaminess.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 50gFat: 40gSaturated Fat: 20gSodium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4g
Keyword Comfort Food, Creamy Chicken, Crockpot Chicken, Easy Dinner, Meal Prep
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Tags:

Chicken Recipes / Comfort Food / crockpot recipes / easy dinner ideas / Marry Me chicken

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating