Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Are you searching for a dish that’s not only irresistibly delicious but also simple to prepare? Look no further than the Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe! This dish is a marriage of rich flavors that simmer together beautifully in a slow cooker, creating a meal so delightful, it might just lead to wedding proposals. The creamy, savory sauce combined with tender chicken will have everyone asking for seconds. Read on to find out how to make this unforgettable meal with ease, and fall in love with a recipe that could become your go-to dinner!

What is Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken?

The "Marry Me Chicken" recipe has gained popularity because of its irresistibly creamy and rich sauce, packed with flavors that make it hard not to fall in love with. Traditionally made on the stovetop or oven, this version takes a twist by using a Crock Pot, which enhances the flavors and makes the chicken even more tender and juicy. The name "Marry Me Chicken" supposedly comes from the idea that after tasting it, anyone would be inspired to propose marriage, thanks to how delicious it is. With savory herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious creamy sauce, this dish is an absolute winner.

Ingredients List for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

To prepare this mouthwatering Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients. Make sure to have them ready before you start cooking to make the process smooth and enjoyable:

1. Chicken Breasts – 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 to 2 pounds total)
2. Chicken Broth – 1 cup for added moisture and flavor
3. Heavy Cream – 1 cup for a rich, creamy base
4. Parmesan Cheese – ½ cup, freshly grated
5. Sun-Dried Tomatoes – ½ cup, drained and chopped
6. Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
7. Italian Seasoning – 2 teaspoons
8. Red Pepper Flakes – ½ teaspoon, optional for a little heat
9. Salt and Black Pepper – to taste
10. Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons for sautéing the garlic and tomatoes
11. Fresh Basil or Parsley – for garnish

Additional Ingredients for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

To elevate the flavors and texture of your Marry Me Chicken, consider adding these ingredients to the dish:

1. Mushrooms – Sliced and sautéed, mushrooms add an earthy note to the sauce.
2. Baby Spinach – Stir in some fresh spinach at the end for added nutrients and a pop of color.
3. Shallots or Onions – These can be sautéed with the garlic to add extra depth of flavor.
4. White Wine – A splash of dry white wine adds a sophisticated touch to the sauce, complementing the creaminess.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is its versatility. If you don’t have the exact ingredients or want to try something new, here are some excellent substitutions and variations:

• Chicken Thighs – If you prefer dark meat, swap the chicken breasts for boneless, skinless thighs. They’ll come out even juicier!
• Greek Yogurt – Replace the heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter but still creamy sauce.
• Vegetarian Option – Try using hearty vegetables like cauliflower or tofu in place of chicken for a vegetarian version.
• Gluten-Free – This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but make sure to double-check the labels on any store-bought ingredients like chicken broth.
• Dairy-Free – Use coconut milk or almond milk as a dairy-free alternative to the heavy cream. The sauce will still be creamy but with a slightly different flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all the ingredients and variations ready, it’s time to walk through the step-by-step cooking instructions to make this delectable Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken:

1. Prep the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
2. Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes: In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant. This step will help intensify the flavors before they’re added to the Crock Pot.
3. Layer Ingredients in the Crock Pot: Place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom of the Crock Pot. Pour the garlic and sun-dried tomato mixture over the top.
4. Add Liquids and Seasoning: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream over the chicken. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using) evenly across the dish.
5. Cook on Low: Set the Crock Pot to low heat and cook for 4 to 5 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can cook on high for 2 to 3 hours. The chicken should be tender and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
6. Add Parmesan: About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Let the cheese melt into the sauce for a rich and creamy consistency.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once the chicken is fully cooked, garnish with fresh basil or parsley. The herbs will add freshness to the creamy dish.

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

1. Step 1: Prep your chicken by seasoning it well with salt and pepper.
2. Step 2: Sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes in a skillet with olive oil to bring out their flavor.
3. Step 3: Layer the chicken breasts in the Crock Pot, followed by the sautéed garlic and tomatoes.
4. Step 4: Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and sprinkle with Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes.
5. Step 5: Set the Crock Pot on low for 4-5 hours (or high for 2-3 hours).
6. Step 6: Stir in Parmesan 30 minutes before serving and garnish with fresh herbs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While making Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is easy, a few common mistakes could affect the final outcome. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long, even in a slow cooker, can lead to dry meat. Stick to the recommended times and check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
• Skipping the Sauté Step: Don’t skip sautéing the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. This step enhances the flavor significantly.
• Not Adding Cheese at the Right Time: Add the Parmesan cheese towards the end of cooking. If added too early, it may curdle in the slow cooker.
• Forgetting to Season: Be sure to taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed. Crock Pot dishes sometimes need a bit of extra salt or pepper by the end of cooking.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when it comes to an elegant dish like Marry Me Chicken. Follow these tips to make your meal look as good as it tastes.

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Use freshly chopped parsley, basil, or thyme to brighten up the plate and add a pop of color.
2. Use a Shallow Dish: Serve the chicken in a shallow dish so the creamy sauce can be showcased. It makes the dish look more inviting.
3. Add Texture: Serve the chicken over a bed of rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta to soak up the creamy sauce.

How to Serve Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

This dish pairs beautifully with many different sides. Here are a few ideas:

• Over Pasta: Fettuccine, penne, or even spaghetti works well as a base for this saucy chicken.
• With Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make an excellent pairing for the rich sauce.
• With Rice: A bed of jasmine or basmati rice will soak up all that delicious sauce.
• With Vegetables: Serve with a side of roasted broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for a balanced meal.

Presentation Ideas for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

• Plate the Chicken on a Bed of Greens: For a lighter presentation, place the chicken on a bed of arugula or spinach.
• Add a Splash of Color: Garnish with roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomato slices for visual appeal.
• Rustic Chic: Serve the dish in individual cast iron skillets for a rustic yet sophisticated look.

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe Tips

• Make it Ahead: You can prep the ingredients the night before and store them in the Crock Pot insert in the fridge. In the morning, just pop it into the slow cooker and turn it on.
• Double the Recipe: If you’re serving a larger crowd, you can easily double the ingredients and use a larger Crock Pot.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken, so you can reheat with a little splash of chicken broth or cream.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken? A: Yes, you can freeze it! Let the dish cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat on the stove.

Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts? A: Yes, but it’s best to thaw the chicken before cooking for more even results.

Q: Can I make this dish without a Crock Pot? A: Absolutely! You can cook it in a skillet and finish it in the oven, or simmer it on the stovetop for a quicker meal.

Q: Can I add vegetables directly to the Crock Pot? A: Yes! Vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or even carrots can be added towards the last hour of cooking.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is the perfect blend of ease and elegance. With its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, this dish is sure to impress. Whether you're making dinner for family or a special occasion, this recipe will win hearts. So, gather your ingredients and give this dish a try—you might just fall in love!

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