Crock-Pot Marry Me Chicken: A Flavor-Packed Dish That Will Steal Hearts

If you’re looking for a meal that’s both indulgent and incredibly easy to make, look no further than this Crock-Pot Marry Me Chicken! This dish is the perfect mix of rich, creamy goodness with a burst of bold flavors from sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning.

And the best part? You can let your slow cooker do all the work while you sit back and relax.

Whether you’re planning a cozy date night or a dinner for the whole family, this dish is guaranteed to steal the show. Serve it over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete, mouthwatering meal.

Trust us, once you try it, you’ll understand why they call it “Marry Me Chicken!”

Crock-Pot Marry Me Chicken A Flavor-Packed Dish That Will Steal Hearts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Set It and Forget It: Let the slow cooker do all the work.
  • Restaurant-Quality Flavor: Rich, creamy, and packed with bold flavors.
  • Versatile: Serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
  • Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for date nights, family dinners, or potlucks.

Crock-Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need for a dish bursting with flavor:

For the Chicken

  • Chicken: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (thighs will give a juicier result, but breasts work just as well).
  • Seasoning:
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1 teaspoon black pepper
    • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a smoky depth to the chicken)

For the Sauce

  • Sun-dried tomatoes: ½ cup, packed in oil, drained, and chopped (they’ll infuse the sauce with rich, tangy flavor).
  • Garlic: 4 cloves, minced (for a bold, aromatic punch).
  • Chicken broth: ½ cup, low-sodium (balances the creaminess and adds savory depth).
  • Heavy cream: 1 cup (creates the rich, velvety sauce).
  • Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, grated (adds nuttiness and helps thicken the sauce).
  • Italian seasoning: 1 ½ tablespoons (for a robust herby profile).
  • Crushed red pepper flakes: ½ teaspoon (for a mild, subtle heat—feel free to add more if you like a kick).
  • Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (use oil from the sun-dried tomato jar for extra flavor).

For Serving

  • Fresh basil: ¼ cup, chopped (for a burst of freshness and color).
  • Pasta or rice: To serve alongside the chicken (pasta works wonderfully to soak up the creamy sauce).

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create the perfect, melt-in-your-mouth Crock-Pot Marry Me Chicken.

1. Season the Chicken

  • Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear and to avoid extra moisture in the Crock-Pot.
  • Season both sides of the chicken with 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika. The paprika will add a smoky flavor to the chicken that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

2. Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil (preferably from the sun-dried tomato jar) in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the chicken to the skillet and sear each side for 2-3 minutes, until golden brown. This step is optional, but it adds extra depth and caramelization to the chicken, which will elevate the overall flavor.
  • Once seared, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Layer Ingredients in the Crock-Pot

  • Place the seared or unseared chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker.
  • Scatter the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic over the chicken. These ingredients will infuse the sauce with bold, savory flavors.
  • Pour in the ½ cup chicken broth and sprinkle the chicken with 1 ½ tablespoons Italian seasoning and ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes. This will create a flavorful base for the sauce.

4. Cook on Low

  • Cover the Crock-Pot and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F). The slow cooking will allow the chicken to absorb all the flavors, making it incredibly juicy and flavorful.

5. Add Cream and Cheese

  • Once the chicken is cooked, remove the chicken from the Crock-Pot and set it aside.
  • Stir in the heavy cream and ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce in the Crock-Pot. Stir until the sauce becomes smooth, creamy, and slightly thickened. The Parmesan will not only add flavor but also help thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency.
  • Return the chicken to the Crock-Pot and toss it in the sauce, ensuring it’s coated evenly in the creamy, flavorful mixture.

6. Serve and Garnish

  • Serve the Marry Me Chicken over your choice of pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. The creamy sauce will soak into the side, making each bite irresistible.
  • For an extra burst of flavor and color, garnish with chopped fresh basil and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is incredibly flexible. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Protein Options

  • Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result.
  • Turkey: Swap chicken for turkey cutlets.
  • Vegetarian: Use chickpeas or tofu for a meatless version.

Sauce Variations

  • Lighter Option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
  • Extra Spice: Add 1 tsp chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Cheesy Twist: Stir in ½ cup shredded mozzarella for extra gooeyness.

Serving Ideas

  • Pasta: Serve over fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti.
  • Rice: Pair with jasmine or basmati rice.
  • Veggies: Serve with roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli.

Nutritional Breakdown

Here’s a detailed look at the nutritional profile per serving:

NutrientPer Serving
Calories380 kcal
Protein40g
Fat20g
Carbohydrates8g
Fiber1g
Sugar3g

This recipe is a great source of protein and can be adjusted to fit your dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is delicious on its own, but here are a few ideas to make it even better:

  • Serve with a side of garlic bread or crusty bread for dipping into the sauce.
  • Pair with a Caesar salad or caprese salad for a fresh contrast.
  • Add a glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a complete dining experience.

Storing & Reheating Tips

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and work wonderfully in this recipe.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble everything in the slow cooker, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Cook as directed the next day.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you serve it with gluten-free pasta or rice.

4. Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, cook on high for 2-3 hours, but low and slow yields the most tender chicken.

Why This Crock-Pot Marry Me Chicken is a Must-Try

This Crock-Pot Marry Me Chicken is the ultimate comfort food with a touch of elegance. It’s creamy, flavorful, and so easy to make that it feels like a special treat without the effort.

Whether you’re cooking for a date night, a family dinner, or just yourself, this dish is sure to win hearts.

Grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready for a meal that’s sure to impress. Happy cooking, and be sure to share in the comments how it turned out! 🙂

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