This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a simple, creamy dish that combines tender chicken with sun-dried tomatoes and a rich sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner!
Trust me, if you serve this, someone might just pop the question! I love how the slow cooker makes everything super easy—set it and forget it while the aromas fill your kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep it lean and tender. Alternatively, use thighs for more flavor or even tofu for a plant-based option.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These bring a lot of flavor. If you can’t find them, roasted red peppers can add a similar sweetness. Just be sure to chop them well!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, half-and-half or coconut cream can be used instead. Just keep in mind the coconut flavor may alter the dish a bit.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds richness. If you need a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
What’s the Best Way to Sear Chicken Before Slow Cooking?
Searing chicken helps lock in moisture and adds a deep flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet—medium-high heat is key.
- Use a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Let the oil heat up before adding the chicken.
- Cook each side for about 3 minutes until golden brown; this forms a nice crust.
Even if you’re short on time, giving the chicken that quick sizzle will enhance the dish immensely! Just make sure not to overcook it since it’ll finish cooking in the crockpot.
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (not in oil), chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh rosemary or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep, plus 4-5 hours of cooking on low, or 2-3 hours on high in the crockpot. It’s perfect for a busy day—just set it and let the slow cooker do the work!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
First, sprinkle salt and black pepper on both sides of the chicken breasts. This will help enhance the flavor as they cook!
2. Sear the Chicken:
If you have a bit more time, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear them for about 3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. This step is optional but really adds great flavor to the dish.
3. Place Chicken in the Crockpot:
Once the chicken is seared, transfer it to your crockpot. This is where all the magic happens!
4. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it smells delightful. Make sure to stir it so it doesn’t burn!
5. Add the Tomatoes and Spices:
Now, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook for another minute, letting all those flavors mix together.
6. Prepare the Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet; this adds extra flavor!
7. Mix in Parmesan:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is creamy.
8. Combine Everything:
Pour the delicious creamy sun-dried tomato sauce over the chicken in the crockpot, making sure each breast is well-coated.
9. Slow Cook:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken is done when it’s tender and fully cooked through!
10. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped rosemary or parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy this rich dish hot over cooked pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up that creamy sauce!
This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is sure to impress everyone at the table. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to add some extra cooking time. If using frozen chicken breasts, plan for about 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high to ensure they’re thoroughly cooked.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and sear the chicken the day before. Store them separately in the fridge, then combine them in the slow cooker when you’re ready to cook. Just note that the cooking time may reduce slightly, so keep an eye on it!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What Can I Serve With Marry Me Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a side of roasted vegetables. You could also serve it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce!
