Easy CrockPot Marry Me Chicken – A Romantic Dinner

Make your dinner unforgettable with this easy CrockPot Marry Me Chicken – A Romantic Dinner recipe! Tender chicken in a rich, creamy sauce that’s perfect for a cozy night in. Just set it and forget it!

Crockpot “Marry Me” Chicken is a popular, flavorful, and easy-to-make chicken recipe known for its creamy, savory sauce that’s so delicious it’s said to be “marriage proposal worthy.” The dish typically features chicken breasts or thighs cooked in a slow cooker with a rich sauce made of ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. It’s often served with a side of pasta, rice, or vegetables to soak up the creamy sauce.

Ingredients for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices (such as Italian seasoning or garlic powder).
2. Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a bit of olive oil. Some recipes call for a splash of white wine or chicken broth for extra flavor.
3. Cook in Crockpot: Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker, then pour the sauce mixture over the top. Cook on low for about 4–6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
4. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, and serve over pasta, rice, or with a side of vegetables.

The creamy, rich sauce and tender chicken are the main attractions of this dish. It’s often called “Marry Me” chicken because of how many people love it—it’s described as “so good, you’ll want to marry it!”

Serve this Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken with pasta or try it alongside our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for a heartwarming meal.

When it comes to choosing between chicken breasts and chicken thighs, the decision largely depends on your preferences in terms of taste, texture, cooking method, and nutritional needs. Both cuts have their pros and cons, so let’s break it down:

Chicken Breasts:

For faster cooking, use boneless chicken breasts. If you prefer pasta-based recipes, try our How to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta or explore a lighter alternative with Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach.

• Texture and Flavor: Chicken breasts are lean, with a mild flavor. They’re more likely to dry out if overcooked because they have less fat and are more prone to losing moisture.
• Nutrition: Chicken breasts are lower in fat and calories compared to thighs, making them a popular choice for those looking to reduce their calorie or fat intake. They are also a great source of protein.
• Cooking Tips: They cook quickly and are great for grilling, baking, or pan-searing. Because they’re lean, it’s important to be careful not to overcook them. Adding moisture (like a marinade or sauce) can help keep them juicy.
• Best for: People who prefer a leaner, lighter cut of meat, or those following a lower-fat diet.

Chicken Thighs:

• Texture and Flavor: Thighs are richer in flavor due to their higher fat content. They have a juicier, more tender texture, especially when cooked slowly (e.g., in a stew or slow cooker). Even if overcooked slightly, they tend to stay moist and flavorful.
• Nutrition: Chicken thighs are higher in fat and calories compared to breasts, but they also contain more iron and other nutrients, making them a good choice for a well-rounded diet.
• Cooking Tips: Thighs are more forgiving when cooking, making them ideal for slow cooking, braising, or roasting. They can be cooked at higher temperatures without drying out and are great for recipes that require longer cooking times.
• Best for: Those who enjoy richer, juicier meat and don’t mind a higher fat content. Great for slow-cooked dishes, grilling, or when you want something a bit more flavorful and tender.

Which Is Better?

• Taste: If you prefer a milder taste and a leaner option, chicken breasts are a good choice. However, if you’re after more flavor and juiciness, chicken thighs might be your go-to.
• Cooking Method: For fast cooking methods like grilling or pan-searing, chicken breasts are ideal. But for slow cooking, braising, or roasting, chicken thighs shine because they stay moist and tender.
• Health Considerations: If you’re watching your fat intake or looking for a leaner protein source, chicken breasts are the better choice. However, if you’re not as concerned about fat and prefer more flavorful meat, chicken thighs are a great option.

How to Make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken: Step-by-Step

Making Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a simple and satisfying process that requires just a few key ingredients and a little patience. This dish combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and aromatic herbs, creating a meal that’s rich in flavor and perfect for any occasion. Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken comes out perfect every time.

If you love chicken recipes with a creamy sauce, you might also enjoy our Creamy Ditalini Pasta, a comforting dish made with pasta and a luscious, creamy sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by preparing your chicken breasts. If the chicken is not yet thawed, make sure to defrost it properly. Then, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder to enhance the flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken (Optional)

For a richer flavor, sear the chicken breasts in a skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes per side until lightly browned. This step is optional but helps lock in juices and adds depth to the dish.

Step 3: Layer Ingredients in the Crockpot

Place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Add diced onions, minced garlic, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes on top of the chicken. These ingredients will infuse the chicken with flavor as it cooks.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Sprinkle dried basil, thyme, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes over the ingredients. These herbs will give the dish a beautiful fragrance and enhance the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Cover the crockpot and cook the chicken on low heat for 4-5 hours or high heat for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender, easily shredding with a fork once done.

Step 6: Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it into the creamy sauce.

Step 7: Add Parmesan Cheese

Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese into the crockpot and stir until the cheese melts into the sauce, adding richness and flavor.

Step 8: Final Touches

Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. You can also add extra herbs or a splash more cream to achieve your desired flavor and consistency.

Step 9: Serve

Serve the Crockpot Marry Me Chicken hot, garnished with fresh parsley. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or a side salad.

Enjoy your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken as a comforting and irresistible meal!

Tips and Tricks for Perfecting Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a simple, flavorful dish, but a few tips and tricks can help ensure it turns out perfectly every time. Here’s how to get the best results:

1. Use Bone-In, Skinless Chicken Thighs for Extra Flavor

While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a common choice, bone-in, skinless chicken thighs will add more flavor and moisture to your dish. The bones help retain moisture during the long cooking process, keeping the meat tender and juicy. If you prefer chicken breasts, that’s fine too—just be mindful not to overcook them.

2. Brown the Chicken First (Optional)

While the slow cooker will do most of the work, searing the chicken breasts or thighs in a skillet before adding them to the Crockpot can enhance the flavor. Browning the chicken adds a rich, caramelized layer that infuses the dish with a deeper flavor. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but it’s a great way to elevate the dish.

3. Don’t Skimp on the Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Sun-dried tomatoes are a key flavor component in the sauce. If you can, choose high-quality sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil rather than the dry-packed version. The oil adds richness to the sauce, and the tomatoes infuse the cream with intense flavor. If you use dry-packed tomatoes, you can rehydrate them in hot water before adding them to the slow cooker.

4. Adjust the Creaminess to Your Liking

The sauce in Marry Me Chicken is typically made with heavy cream for a rich, velvety texture, but you can adjust the creaminess based on your preferences. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or even coconut milk (for a dairy-free version) to reduce the fat. For extra richness, add a bit more Parmesan cheese to the sauce.

5. Add Garlic for Extra Flavor

Garlic is essential to the sauce, so don’t skimp on it! Freshly minced garlic will create a better flavor profile than garlic powder. You can add more garlic than the recipe calls for if you love a stronger garlic taste, or add roasted garlic for a sweeter, milder flavor.

6. Use Fresh Herbs for the Best Flavor

For garnish, fresh basil or parsley adds a fresh, vibrant contrast to the rich, creamy sauce. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried ones will work, but they won’t have the same bright flavor. Add the fresh herbs at the end of cooking to preserve their color and flavor.

7. Don’t Overcook the Chicken

The beauty of using a Crockpot is that it cooks food slowly and evenly. However, overcooking the chicken—especially chicken breasts—can result in a dry texture. Check your chicken after 4 hours on low, and if it’s done, pull it out. Chicken breasts typically take 4 to 6 hours on low in a Crockpot, while thighs might take a little longer.

8. Make the Sauce Even Richer

If you want to make the sauce even richer and more indulgent, you can add a bit of cream cheese along with the heavy cream. This will give the sauce an extra creamy, tangy flavor. For a slight boost of flavor, you can also add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

9. Don’t Forget the Salt and Pepper

The sauce can become quite rich, so seasoning is key to balance the flavors. Taste the sauce at the end of the cooking time and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. A touch of lemon juice can also help cut through the richness and brighten the flavors.

10. Serve with the Right Sides

The sauce in Marry Me Chicken is rich and creamy, making it perfect to pair with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up all the delicious sauce. You could also serve it with roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or a light salad for a well-rounded meal.

Bonus Tip: Make It Ahead

You can make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken ahead of time. Assemble everything in the slow cooker insert the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. In the morning, just pop it into the Crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours. This makes it an ideal option for busy weeknights or when you’re planning a meal for guests.

FAQs About Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

1. Can I use frozen chicken for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs, but keep in mind that frozen chicken may release more liquid as it cooks, which could affect the consistency of the sauce. It’s recommended to cook it on low for 6-7 hours instead of 4-6 hours to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature (165°F or 74°C). You may also want to thaw the chicken first for best results.

2. Can I make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken dairy-free or gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this recipe both dairy-free and gluten-free! For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream or almond milk (or another dairy-free alternative) instead of heavy cream. Replace Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a similar savory flavor. For a gluten-free version, just make sure to use certified gluten-free sun-dried tomatoes and any other ingredients that may contain gluten (like some cream sauces).

3. Can I prepare Crockpot Marry Me Chicken in advance?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time! Assemble everything in the Crockpot insert the night before and store it in the fridge. In the morning, just set the insert into the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. This makes it perfect for busy days when you want a stress-free meal.

4. What can I serve with Crockpot Marry Me Chicken?
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, including pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. The creamy sauce also works well with bread for dipping.

5. How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it up on the stove or in the microwave. If the sauce has thickened too much, you can add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.

Conclusion

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a flavorful, creamy, and easy dish that’s perfect for busy days or special dinners. With its rich sauce and tender chicken, it’s no surprise that it’s gained a reputation for being “marriage proposal worthy.” Whether you prefer chicken breasts or thighs, this recipe can be customized to suit your dietary preferences, cooking methods, and taste. By following the tips, tricks, and FAQs provided, you’ll ensure that each batch is as delicious and satisfying as the last. Enjoy!

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