Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a recipe that brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table, the Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe is just what you need! This dish has a way of transforming a simple weeknight meal into something special. Imagine coming home to the enticing aroma of chicken simmering in a creamy, garlicky sauce. It’s perfect for those hectic evenings when you want to spend minimal time in the kitchen but still serve something delicious and impressive.

This recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it also makes an excellent choice for family gatherings or cozy dinner parties with friends. The rich flavors and tender chicken will make everyone feel loved and satisfied. Trust me; once you try this dish, it might just become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With just a few minutes of prep, you can set your crockpot and let it do the work for you!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The creamy sauce and juicy chicken are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! Just pop it in the crockpot, and you’ll have dinner ready when you are.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan creates a rich flavor that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients you may already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything you need for this delightful dish!

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra juiciness.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale in the last hour of cooking for added nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: If you’re not a fan of Parmesan, mozzarella or feta would work beautifully as well.
• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or even some sliced jalapeños if you love heat.

How to Make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This step is crucial because it enhances the flavor of the meat while it cooks.

Step 2: Create the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and cornstarch until smooth. Then add in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous! Whisking everything together ensures that all those wonderful flavors meld perfectly.

Step 3: Assemble the Crockpot

Place those seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Pour that luscious sauce mixture over them so they’re fully coated. This will keep them moist and infuse them with flavor as they cook.

Step 4: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Now it’s time to sprinkle those chopped sun-dried tomatoes on top of everything. They add a burst of flavor that complements the creaminess beautifully.

Step 5: Cook

Set your crockpot to low and let it cook for about four hours or high for two hours. The goal here is tender chicken that practically falls apart with a fork!

Step 6: Finish with Butter

In the last half hour of cooking, toss in the butter. Stir it into that divine sauce as it melts – this adds richness that takes your dish to another level.

Step 7: Serve

When it’s done cooking, garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley if desired. Serve this beauty with a generous spoonful of sauce over rice, pasta, or even crusty bread to soak up every drop!

Now you’re all set to enjoy this delightful Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Cooking this delicious Crockpot Marry Me Chicken should be a breeze, so here are some pro tips to ensure you get it just right!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and sun-dried tomatoes can elevate the flavor profile of your dish. They contribute to a more vibrant taste compared to their dried counterparts.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to skip the red pepper flakes. Conversely, if you love heat, add more to suit your taste.
• Thicken the Sauce: If you desire a thicker sauce, simply mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Marinate for Extra Flavor: For an even richer flavor, consider marinating your chicken in the sauce overnight before cooking. This allows the flavors to infuse deeply into the meat.
• Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for a quick meal.

How to Serve Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Serving Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is not just about presenting a meal; it’s about creating an experience. Here are some delightful ways to make this dish stand out on your dinner table.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil or Parsley: Chopped herbs add a pop of color and fresh flavor that complements the creaminess of the sauce.
• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest adds a bright, citrusy note that balances out the richness of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs perfectly with the rich sauce.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious contrast and adds vibrant color to your plate.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad tossed with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette offers a healthy and zesty accompaniment.
• Roasted Asparagus: Tossed with olive oil and seasoned lightly, roasted asparagus brings out its natural sweetness and complements the chicken beautifully.

Now that you’re armed with tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress family and friends alike with your delicious Crockpot Marry Me Chicken! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, making busy weeknights a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to let the dish cool to room temperature before sealing.

Freezing

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe:

Can I use other types of chicken for the Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe?

Yes! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best, you can substitute with thighs or even bone-in chicken; just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How can I make the Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe healthier?

You can reduce the amount of heavy cream by substituting half with plain Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream for a lighter version without sacrificing taste!

What sides go well with Crockpot Marry Me Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, or pasta. A fresh salad would also complement it beautifully!

Can I make this Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap out heavy cream and Parmesan cheese for coconut cream and nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives to maintain a rich flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe as much as I do! It’s a special dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s bound to impress your family and friends. So roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and savor every delicious bite. Happy cooking!