Introduction to Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Welcome to one of my all-time favorite recipes—Crockpot Marry Me Chicken! I can’t tell you how many times this dish has made my family swoon at the dinner table. With a busy schedule, finding a quick solution for a delicious meal can be overwhelming. That’s where this creamy, dreamy chicken comes in. Imagine walking in after a long day, your home filled with the mouthwatering aroma of sun-dried tomatoes and garlic. Not only is this recipe easy to whip up, but it’s also bound to impress your loved ones. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a true lifesaver for busy moms like me. It’s easy to prepare and requires minimal hands-on time. Just toss the ingredients in the slow cooker, and let it do the magic. The flavor? Absolutely irresistible! It’s creamy, comforting, and the sun-dried tomatoes add a delightful punch. You’ll wow your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen—what’s not to love?
Ingredients for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
For this delightful dish, gathering the right ingredients is crucial. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! They cook up tender and absorb flavors beautifully.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: These gems pack a punch! They bring that sweet-tart flavor, enhancing the creamy sauce. You can find them in jars at any grocery store.
- Heavy cream: This is the magic ingredient that makes the sauce rich and velvety. For a lighter option, you could use half-and-half, but the cream really shines here.
- Chicken broth: It adds depth to the sauce. Use low-sodium broth if you’re watching salt—just season to taste later!
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan elevates the flavor profile, giving it a savory note. You can substitute with Pecorino Romano if needed.
- Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with love and aroma. Feel free to add more if you’re a garlic lover, or use garlic powder in a pinch.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that brings an authentic Italian feel to the dish. Fresh herbs can work too, just adjust the measurements.
- Salt and pepper: These basics enhance every ingredient’s flavor. It’s all about that perfect seasoning!
- Fresh basil (for garnish): A touch of fresh basil not only looks beautiful but adds a burst of freshness when serving.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can print out the recipe. Each ingredient plays a part in making this Crockpot Marry Me Chicken a delightful experience!
How to Make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Prepare the Chicken
First, season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. I always love to use a generous pinch of both to enhance flavor. Then, place the seasoned chicken directly in the crockpot. This step is quick and sets the stage for a delightful dish!
Make the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine chopped sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, and grated Parmesan cheese. Add minced garlic and Italian seasoning for that Italian flair. Don’t forget to sprinkle in more salt and pepper to taste. This heavenly concoction comes together in no time!
Combine
Carefully pour the creamy sauce over the chicken in the crockpot. Make sure every piece is well-coated, as this ensures flavor in each bite. Trust me, the more sauce, the better!
Cook
Cover your crockpot and let it work its magic! Cook the chicken on low for about 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until it’s tender and cooked through. The aroma will drive you wild!
Serve
When cooking time is up, feel free to shred the chicken for a cozy plate or serve it whole, topped with that luscious sauce. Lastly, garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor. Your family will be raving about this one!
Tips for Success
- Don’t rush seasoning; it enhances flavor.
- If possible, sear the chicken before adding to the crockpot to deepen flavor.
- Stir the sauce halfway through cooking to combine ingredients.
- Adjust the creaminess by varying the amount of heavy cream to suit your taste.
- For leftovers, store in an airtight container for freshness.
Equipment Needed
- Crockpot: The heart of this recipe! A slow cooker is essential, but you can use a Dutch oven in the oven, too.
- Mixing bowl: For combining the sauce ingredients. Any medium-sized bowl will do.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Necessary for precise ingredient measurements. A simple set goes a long way.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring the sauce, giving you that classic kitchen feel!
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a touch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat. It transforms the dish into a mouthwatering adventure!
- Mushroom Lovers: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. Trust me; this is a game-changer!
- Low-Carb Option: Swap out heavy cream for cauliflower puree and use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a nutritious twist that still delivers on taste.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique aromatic profile that can elevate this dish even more.
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly—your veggie friends will love it!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with Pasta: Serve the Crockpot Marry Me Chicken over a bed of your favorite pasta to soak up all that creamy goodness.
- Side Salad: A fresh garden salad balances the richness, adding crunch and zest.
- Drink Options: A chilled white wine or sparkling water makes a delightful accompaniment.
- Garnish Nicely: Serve in a beautiful dish, topped with fresh basil for a lovely presentation.
FAQs about Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
While it’s best to use fresh chicken for even cooking, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just add an extra hour to the cooking time on low.
What sides pair well with Crockpot Marry Me Chicken?
This dish is fantastic served over pasta or rice. A crisp salad is also a great option to balance the creaminess!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep everything the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just pop it into the crockpot in the morning for a stress-free dinner.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before serving for a quick meal!
Is Crockpot Marry Me Chicken gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, making it a safe choice for those with gluten sensitivities. Enjoy without worry!
Final Thoughts
Making Crockpot Marry Me Chicken has been a delightful culinary journey for me—and I hope it will be for you, too! There’s something magical about tossing ingredients into a slow cooker and letting the aromas envelop your home. This dish not only brings smiles but also creates cherished moments around the dinner table. It’s perfect for busy days or cozy evenings when you want something special without the hassle. Trust me, once you serve this creamy chicken, your family will be asking for it regularly. Here’s to flavorful meals and making memories! Enjoy every delicious bite!
Description
A simple and delicious crockpot recipe for Marry Me Chicken, featuring tender chicken breasts in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper and place them in the crockpot.
- Make the Sauce: In a bowl, mix the sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, garlic, Italian seasoning, and a little more salt and pepper.
- Combine: Pour the sauce over the chicken in the crockpot. Make sure the chicken is well-coated.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for about 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Serve: Once done, you can shred the chicken or serve it whole with the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh basil.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of white wine to the sauce.
- This dish pairs well with pasta or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 150mg