How To Make Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot

Discover how to make the irresistible Marry Me Chicken in a Crock Pot. This creamy, flavorful chicken dish is perfect for a cozy night in. Easy to make, delicious to eat!

If you’re a fan of creamy chicken dishes, you might also love our Marry Me Chicken Pasta with Spinach for a quick, comforting dinner!

Introduction To Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot.

If you’re on the hunt for a flavorful, comforting dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, look no further than Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot. This creamy, savory chicken dish, cooked to perfection in a crockpot, is a crowd-pleaser that has earned its reputation for being so irresistible that it might just lead to a marriage proposal!

The combination of tender chicken, a velvety creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and seasonings, all simmered slowly in the crockpot, creates a dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner, looking for a cozy meal, or simply craving something rich and comforting, Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Let’s dive into the world of Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot, and learn why this dish has everyone asking for more!

Key Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot

To make the best Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot, it’s essential to gather the right ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering the rich, creamy flavor profile that makes this dish so irresistible. Below is a breakdown of the key ingredients you’ll need, along with their measurements, to ensure your chicken turns out perfectly tender and flavorful.

Summary of ingredients

• Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Heavy cream: 1 cup, to create a rich and creamy sauce
• Cream cheese: 4 oz, softened for smoothness
• Sun-dried tomatoes: 1/2 cup, chopped for a tangy flavor
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced for aromatic depth
• Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, for a savory, cheesy kick
• Chicken broth: 1/2 cup, to enhance the sauce and keep it moist
• Italian seasoning: 1 tablespoon, for a classic herby flavor
• Red pepper flakes: Optional, for a touch of heat
• Salt & pepper: To taste, for seasoning the dish

1. Chicken Breasts or Thighs (Boneless, Skinless)

• Amount: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 6 thighs)
  Chicken is the star of the dish, and the cut you choose will impact the overall texture and flavor. Boneless, skinless breasts are typically used for a leaner option, while thighs offer a richer, more tender result. Both work well in the crockpot, becoming melt-in-your-mouth tender as they slow-cook in the creamy sauce.

2. Heavy Cream

• Amount: 1 cup (240 ml)
  Heavy cream is the key to creating that smooth, velvety sauce that coats the chicken beautifully. It helps thicken the sauce and adds the richness that makes this dish so decadent. You can substitute with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream if desired.

3. Cream Cheese

• Amount: 4 oz (113 grams)
  Cream cheese adds an extra layer of creaminess and a subtle tanginess to balance the richness of the sauce. It melts into the dish, making the sauce thick and luscious.

4. Sun-Dried Tomatoes

• Amount: 1/2 cup (75 grams)
  Sun-dried tomatoes are an essential ingredient, bringing a burst of concentrated flavor to the dish. They add a slight sweetness and a depth of umami that complements the creaminess of the sauce. Make sure to chop them into smaller pieces before adding them to the crockpot.

5. Garlic (Minced)

• Amount: 4 cloves
  Garlic is a must-have in this recipe, providing a fragrant and savory base to the sauce. Fresh garlic adds a natural depth of flavor, which intensifies as it slow-cooks.

6. Parmesan Cheese (Grated)

• Amount: 1/2 cup (50 grams)
  Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor to the sauce, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Grated Parmesan works best, as it melts smoothly into the sauce, contributing to its creamy texture.

7. Chicken Broth

• Amount: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
  Chicken broth provides a savory liquid base that helps to thin out the sauce just enough. It also infuses the chicken with flavor as it cooks. If you’re looking to make a healthier version, you can use low-sodium chicken broth.

8. Italian Seasoning

• Amount: 1 tablespoon
  Italian seasoning blends a variety of herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary, giving the dish that classic Italian flavor profile. It complements the creamy sauce and adds aromatic flavors that bring everything together.

9. Red Pepper Flakes (Optional)

• Amount: 1/4 teaspoon
  If you like a bit of heat, red pepper flakes are an easy way to add a subtle spice to the dish. It’s optional but can give the sauce a nice kick without overpowering the other flavors.

10. Salt and Black Pepper

• Amount: To taste
  Simple seasonings like salt and freshly ground black pepper help bring all the flavors together. You can adjust them to taste, depending on how salty or peppery you prefer your dish.

11. Fresh Basil (For Garnish)

• Amount: A handful, chopped
  Fresh basil adds a bright, herbal note to finish off the dish. It provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the creamy sauce, making each bite even more flavorful.

With these ingredients, you’ll be able to create the Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot that’s creamy, savory, and packed with bold flavors. Don’t worry if some ingredients are unfamiliar to you—each one is easily accessible at most grocery stores, and they all come together to make an unforgettable meal.

How to Prepare Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot

Preparing Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot is a breeze, thanks to the slow cooker, which does most of the work for you. The key is to layer the ingredients in a way that ensures everything melds together perfectly, creating a creamy, flavorful sauce and tender chicken. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve this crowd-pleasing dish with minimal effort.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

The first step is to prepare the chicken. If you’re using chicken breasts, trim any excess fat and pat the pieces dry with paper towels. For chicken thighs, remove any skin (if using skinless thighs) and trim any extra fat. This will help the chicken cook evenly and allow the sauce to absorb better.

Tip: While you can cook the chicken whole, you may want to cut it into smaller pieces (about 2-3 inches) for quicker cooking and more sauce coverage. If you prefer, you can also sear the chicken in a skillet for a few minutes on each side to lock in juices, but this is optional.

Step 2: Add the Creamy Sauce Ingredients

Once your chicken is ready, place it at the bottom of the crockpot. On top of the chicken, add the key ingredients for the sauce:

• Heavy cream (1 cup)
• Cream cheese (4 oz, softened and cut into cubes)
• Sun-dried tomatoes (1/2 cup, chopped)
• Minced garlic (4 cloves)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup)
• Chicken broth (1/2 cup)

Tip: Make sure the cream cheese is softened before adding it to the crockpot to ensure it melts smoothly and doesn’t form any lumps in the sauce.

Step 3: Season the Dish

Now that the main ingredients are in place, it’s time to season your dish. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning (1 tablespoon) evenly over the top, then add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir everything gently to combine, making sure the chicken is well-coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Chicken

Cover your crockpot with the lid and set it to cook. For the best results, cook the chicken on low heat for 4-5 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours, depending on the size of your chicken pieces. The chicken will become incredibly tender as it cooks and absorbs the rich flavors of the sauce.

For an even richer flavor in your sauce, you could add some chicken broth, which pairs perfectly with this creamy chicken dish

Tip: You can check for doneness by cutting into a piece of chicken. It should be cooked through and tender, with the juices running clear.

Step 5: Finish the Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, it’s time to give the sauce a final touch. Stir the sauce gently to mix in all the creamy goodness that’s collected at the bottom. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can let it cook on high for an additional 15–20 minutes with the lid off, allowing the sauce to reduce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

To serve, transfer the chicken to a platter or individual plates. Spoon the creamy sauce over the chicken and sprinkle with freshly chopped basil for a burst of color and freshness. You can serve this dish with a side of pasta, rice, or vegetables to complete the meal.

Tip: If you’re serving it with pasta, be sure to cook the pasta separately according to package instructions. Once drained, mix it with some of the creamy sauce to create a delicious pasta dish to complement the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Making Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot

While making Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot is relatively simple, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final outcome of this creamy, flavorful dish. By being aware of these pitfalls, you can ensure that your meal turns out perfectly every time. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

1. Using Frozen Chicken Instead of Fresh

One of the most common mistakes is using frozen chicken directly in the crockpot. While the slow cooker can cook frozen chicken, it tends to result in uneven cooking and can lead to a watery, less flavorful sauce. For the best texture and flavor, always use fresh or thawed chicken.

Tip: If you forgot to thaw your chicken, it’s best to use another cooking method (like the stovetop) or make sure the frozen chicken is fully defrosted before placing it in the crockpot.

2. Skipping the Step of Soften the Cream Cheese

Cream cheese is a key ingredient in creating the smooth, creamy sauce that makes this dish so delicious. However, if you don’t soften the cream cheese before adding it to the crockpot, it may not melt properly and could form lumps in the sauce.

Tip: Take the cream cheese out of the fridge 20-30 minutes before starting the recipe or microwave it for 10-15 seconds to soften it before adding it to the slow cooker.

3. Overcrowding the Crockpot

While it may be tempting to double or triple the recipe for a large crowd, overcrowding the crockpot can lead to uneven cooking. The ingredients need enough space to cook evenly and allow the flavors to meld. Overcrowding can cause the chicken to cook improperly, resulting in a dish that lacks the tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture you’re after.

Tip: Stick to the recommended portions or cook in batches if you need to make a larger amount. You can always make two separate crockpot batches.

4. Using Low-Quality Chicken Broth

Using low-quality or overly salty chicken broth can drastically affect the flavor of the sauce. Since the chicken broth is a key base for the sauce, it’s important to use a good-quality low-sodium chicken broth to avoid an overly salty or bland flavor.

Tip: Opt for a homemade chicken broth or a high-quality, low-sodium store-bought version to ensure that the broth adds flavor without overpowering the dish.

5. Not Adjusting Seasoning to Taste

Even though the recipe includes a blend of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, it’s important to taste the sauce before serving. Every crockpot is different, and the cooking process can cause the seasoning to shift or dissipate slightly. If the sauce tastes a bit flat, don’t hesitate to add more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning to bring it to life.

Tip: Add seasonings in increments and taste as you go. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out once it’s in!

6. Overcooking the Chicken

While the crockpot is known for making tender meat, it’s important to keep an eye on the cooking time. Overcooking the chicken, especially on high heat for too long, can lead to dry or shredded chicken, which isn’t the ideal texture for this recipe.

Tip: Check the chicken for doneness at the lower end of the recommended cooking time. If using breasts, they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be considered safe to eat.

7. Not Stirring the Sauce Mid-Cook

Since the chicken sits at the bottom of the crockpot, the sauce ingredients can sometimes settle and stick to the sides. If you don’t stir the sauce midway through cooking, the cream cheese and Parmesan could form clumps, and the sauce may not evenly coat the chicken.

Tip: Give the sauce a quick stir halfway through cooking to ensure everything is well mixed and the chicken stays coated in the creamy goodness.

8. Not Using Enough Liquid

Crockpots rely on moisture to create the perfect environment for slow cooking. If you don’t add enough chicken broth or cream, the sauce may turn out too thick or even burn around the edges of the pot. It’s important to balance the creaminess of the dish with enough liquid to keep things from drying out.

Tip: Always follow the recommended amounts of liquid in the recipe and keep an eye on the sauce. If it looks too thick, add a little extra broth or cream to adjust the consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions About Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about making Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot. These answers will help you troubleshoot, customize, and make the best version of this dish every time.

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, absolutely! Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot works beautifully with either chicken breasts or thighs. Chicken thighs are slightly fattier, which can make them more tender and juicy, while chicken breasts are leaner. Both options yield delicious results, so choose based on your preference for a leaner or richer cut of meat.

2. Can I make Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot ahead of time?

Yes, you can! One of the advantages of this recipe is that it holds up well when made in advance. You can prepare the dish and refrigerate it once it’s cooked. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little extra cream or broth if needed to freshen up the sauce.

3. Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. After cooking, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. Keep in mind that the sauce may slightly change in texture, but the dish will still be delicious.

4. How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

To make the sauce thicker, you can leave the lid off the crockpot during the final 15–20 minutes of cooking to allow the sauce to reduce and thicken. Alternatively, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and cook for an additional 10 minutes. If the sauce is too thick, simply add more chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.

5. Is there a way to make Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot spicier?

Yes, if you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add more red pepper flakes or even a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also stir in a chopped jalapeño or other hot peppers to give the dish a little extra kick. Be sure to taste the sauce as you go to ensure the spice level is just right for you.

6. Can I substitute the heavy cream for a dairy-free option?

Yes, you can make this dish dairy-free by swapping out the heavy cream for coconut cream or another non-dairy milk like almond milk. Use a dairy-free cream cheese to replace the regular cream cheese. These substitutions may slightly alter the flavor, but they will still create a rich and creamy sauce.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot is a deliciously creamy, savory, and indulgent dish that combines tender chicken with a rich sauce made of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, cream cheese, and Parmesan. Whether you’re preparing it for a romantic dinner, a family meal, or a special occasion, this easy recipe ensures a flavor-packed experience with minimal effort.

With simple steps, this dish can be customized to your taste by using chicken thighs or breasts, adjusting the seasoning, and experimenting with different sides. Plus, you can easily make it ahead of time or freeze the leftovers for a convenient meal down the road.

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