Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Looking for a delicious, flavorful dish that’s easy to make yet impressive enough for a special occasion? This Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken recipe is the perfect choice! Tender chicken breasts slow-cooked in a rich, creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan cheese will have everyone asking for more. The dish gets its name because it's so delicious, it’s said to inspire proposals—hence the name "Marry Me Chicken." Whether you’re making it for a romantic dinner or a family meal, this recipe is sure to win hearts.

This Crock Pot version is ideal for those who want to set it and forget it while still serving up a meal that tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. Keep reading for the full recipe, complete with step-by-step instructions, tips, and serving suggestions!

this Recipe

What is Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken?

Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, savory dish made with seared chicken breasts cooked in a flavorful sauce of cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. The sauce has a luxurious texture and is packed with rich, tangy, and cheesy flavors that pair perfectly with the juicy chicken. The dish is traditionally made on the stovetop, but this Crock Pot version allows you to enjoy the same incredible flavors with minimal effort.

Ingredients List for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this creamy and flavorful Marry Me Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Optional Add-Ins

• Spinach: Add fresh spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra nutrition and color.
• Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms make a great addition for an earthy flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

Here are some substitutions and variations to make the recipe fit your preferences:

• Chicken: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, richer flavor. Adjust the cooking time slightly for dark meat.
• Cream: If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
• Cheese: Substitute Parmesan with Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a different cheesy flavor.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary or basil can be used in place of thyme for a different aromatic profile.

These variations allow you to customize the recipe while keeping the essence of Marry Me Chicken intact.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken with ease:

1. Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano. This will help to flavor the chicken as it slow-cooks.

2. Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Searing helps lock in the flavor and gives the chicken a nice golden crust. Once seared, transfer the chicken to your Crock Pot.

3. Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, just until it starts to thicken slightly. Pour this sauce over the chicken in the Crock Pot.

4. Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Seasonings

Add the sun-dried tomatoes, fresh thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the Crock Pot. Stir gently to combine everything. The sun-dried tomatoes will add a sweet, tangy flavor that balances out the richness of the sauce.

5. Cook on Low

Cover the Crock Pot and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. You can also cook on high for 2-3 hours if you’re short on time, but slow-cooking on low yields the best results.

6. Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. About 30 minutes before serving, stir the slurry into the Crock Pot and let the sauce thicken as it finishes cooking.

7. Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is fully cooked, garnish the dish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the chicken with the creamy sauce spooned over the top.

How to Cook Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick recap of the steps to cook Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken:

1. Season Chicken: Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Sear Chicken (optional): Sear the chicken in olive oil until golden brown, then transfer to the Crock Pot.
3. Prepare Sauce: Simmer cream, broth, Parmesan, and garlic in a skillet, then pour over the chicken.
4. Add Tomatoes: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, thyme, and red pepper flakes.
5. Cook on Low: Cook on low for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
6. Thicken Sauce: If desired, add a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.
7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken:

1. Skipping the Sear: While not required, searing the chicken adds a lot of flavor. Don’t skip this step unless you’re really pressed for time.
2. Overcooking the Chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken and don’t overcook it, even in the Crock Pot. Chicken breasts can dry out if left to cook too long.
3. Undersalting the Sauce: Make sure to taste the sauce before serving and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. Parmesan cheese adds saltiness, but you may still need a pinch more salt.
4. Skipping the Cornstarch Slurry: If you like a thicker sauce, don’t skip the step of adding a cornstarch slurry to thicken it toward the end of cooking.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Here’s how you can serve Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken for an elegant meal:

How to Serve Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

• Over Pasta: Serve the chicken over a bed of fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with pasta.
• With Rice or Mashed Potatoes: Serve over rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the rich, creamy sauce.
• With Vegetables: Pair with a side of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, green beans, or broccoli, to add some balance to the richness of the dish.

Presentation Ideas for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

• Garnish with Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil, parsley, or thyme over the dish for a pop of color.
• Serve Family-Style: Serve the chicken in a large, rustic serving dish with the sauce spooned generously over the top. Let guests help themselves.
• Individual Portions: For a more elegant presentation, plate each chicken breast individually, spoon the sauce over, and garnish with fresh herbs and a lemon wedge.

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe Tips

• Use a Meat Thermometer: Always check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
• Double the Sauce: If you love extra sauce or want more to serve over pasta, double the cream, broth, and Parmesan to ensure there’s plenty.
• Fresh Herbs: If possible, use fresh thyme and basil. They add a fragrant, bright flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: It’s best to use thawed chicken for this recipe, as frozen chicken can release extra water, thinning out the sauce. If you do use frozen chicken, expect the cooking time to increase slightly.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make Marry Me Chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

Q: Can I freeze Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze the chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Q: How can I make this dish lighter?
A: For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or light cream. You can also use a reduced-fat Parmesan cheese and reduce the amount of oil.

Q: Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?
A: Yes! Sear the chicken as directed, then simmer everything together in a large skillet for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Conclusion

This Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken recipe is the ultimate comfort dish—creamy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. The slow cooker makes it easy to prepare, while the rich flavors and elegant presentation make it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether you’re cooking for someone you love or just treating yourself to something indulgent, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it out and see why it’s called “Marry Me Chicken”—it just might become the dish you can’t live without!

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