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!”

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:
Nutrient | Per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 380 kcal |
Protein | 40g |
Fat | 20g |
Carbohydrates | 8g |
Fiber | 1g |
Sugar | 3g |
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! 🙂