Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe is a delightful dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich and creamy sauce made from garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. This easy slow-cooker recipe is perfect for various occasions, including busy weeknights, family gatherings, or impressing guests without much effort. The unique blend of flavors and the convenience of cooking in a crockpot make this recipe a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Just season the chicken and let your slow cooker do the work while you relax or focus on other tasks.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan creates a sauce that is both creamy and bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it over pasta, rice, or with a side of vegetables for a complete meal tailored to your preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish keeps well in the fridge, making it an excellent option for meal prep throughout the week.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve with fresh basil or parsley for an elegant touch that will wow your family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure smooth cooking. Having everything ready helps streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Crockpot
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Crockpot: The star of the show! It allows for hands-off cooking while infusing flavors over time.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without making a mess.
• Whisk: Helps blend sauces thoroughly for an even consistency.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients quick and easy.

Ingredients

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is the perfect combination of tender, juicy chicken and a rich, creamy sauce with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan. This easy slow-cooker recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort!

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For the Sauce

• 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)

For Garnish

• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Create the Sauce

In a mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together the chicken broth and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch until smooth.
2. Add in heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Crockpot

Place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken breasts ensuring they are fully coated.

Step 4: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Sprinkle chopped sun-dried tomatoes evenly over the top of both chicken and sauce.

Step 5: Cook

Set your crockpot to low heat for 4 hours or high heat for 2 hours. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender.

Step 6: Finish with Butter

In the last 30 minutes of cooking time:
1. Add butter to the crockpot.
2. Stir it into the sauce as it melts for extra richness.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish servings with freshly chopped basil or parsley if desired. Serve each piece of chicken with a generous spoonful of sauce over rice or pasta!

How to Serve Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is versatile and can be served in various ways to suit your taste. Whether you want a hearty meal or a light side, there are plenty of options to enhance this dish.

With Pasta

• Fettuccine: Serve the chicken over fettuccine for a creamy and satisfying dinner.
• Penne: Toss penne with the sauce for a delightful pasta dish that absorbs all the flavors.

On Rice

• White Rice: Serve over fluffy white rice for a classic combination that balances the rich sauce.
• Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice adds fiber and nuttiness.

With Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: A light side of steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients to your plate.
• Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus brings a crunchy texture that complements the tender chicken perfectly.

In Sandwiches

• Submarine Rolls: Place the chicken in crusty rolls for an easy and delicious sandwich option.
• Wraps: Use tortillas to create wraps filled with chicken, sauce, and fresh greens.

How to Perfect Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

To make sure your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is perfect every time, follow these helpful tips. They will ensure delicious results that everyone will love.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried versions.
• Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add more chicken broth or cream until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Marinate Ahead: For extra flavor, season and marinate the chicken breasts overnight before cooking.
• Cook on Low: Cooking on low heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully and keeps the chicken super tender.
• Add Cheese at the End: Stir in some additional Parmesan cheese just before serving for an extra cheesy touch.
• Garnish Before Serving: Fresh basil or parsley not only enhances presentation but also adds freshness to each bite.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Pairing side dishes with Crockpot Marry Me Chicken enhances your meal experience. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce on your plate.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and a tangy flavor that complements the rich chicken.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies offers a nutritious boost alongside your main dish.
4. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and work well with the savory sauce.
5. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini noodles are a healthy alternative that pairs nicely with rich dishes like this one.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes balances out the savory flavors of the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Bold seasoning mistakes: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper before cooking for maximum taste.
• Bold neglecting the sauce: Skipping the whisking step for the sauce can result in a lumpy texture. Make sure to whisk together all sauce ingredients until smooth for a creamy result.
• Bold overcrowding the crockpot: Placing too many chicken breasts in the crockpot can prevent even cooking. Stick to the recommended amount for best results.
• Bold ignoring cooking times: Cooking on high when low is recommended can dry out the chicken. Follow the suggested cooking times to keep your chicken tender and juicy.
• Bold forgetting about butter: Adding butter too late can affect its flavor infusion into the sauce. Aim to include it in the last 30 minutes of cooking for a rich finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

• Allow cooling completely before freezing.
• Transfer to freezer-safe containers, and label with date.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe.

What is Crockpot Marry Me Chicken?

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a simple slow-cooked dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich, creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese.

How long does it take to cook Crockpot Marry Me Chicken?

The cooking time is approximately 4 hours on low or 2 hours on high. Adjust based on your crockpot’s settings for optimal results.

Can I use other meats in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or beef if you prefer a different protein while following similar preparation steps.

What can I serve with Crockpot Marry Me Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables, making it versatile for any meal occasion.

How do I customize Crockpot Marry Me Chicken?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers into the mix or adjust spices according to your taste preferences for added flair!

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is an appealing option for busy nights or special occasions, providing delicious flavors without much effort. You can easily customize this recipe by adding different vegetables or herbs, making it perfect for any palate. Don’t hesitate to try this delightful dish!