As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a meal that not only satisfies but also impresses. Enter Crockpot Marry Me Chicken—a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat! This creamy, dreamy chicken dish is perfect for those hectic weeknights when you want to serve something special without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty slow cooker, you can create a romantic dinner that will have your loved ones swooning. Trust me, this recipe is a game-changer!
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a lifesaver for busy days! It’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to toss everything in the slow cooker and forget about it. The rich, creamy sauce envelops tender chicken, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in. You’ll love how little effort it takes to create such a delicious meal!
Ingredients for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Crockpot Marry Me Chicken a success. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! They cook up tender and juicy, soaking in all that delicious sauce.
- Sun-dried tomatoes in oil: These little gems add a burst of flavor and a touch of romance to the dish. Make sure to drain and chop them for the best results.
- Heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works beautifully as a substitute.
- Chicken broth: It adds depth to the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor. Homemade or store-bought, either works!
- Garlic powder: A must-have for that aromatic kick. It’s convenient and blends seamlessly into the sauce.
- Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs brings a taste of Italy right to your kitchen. It’s a simple way to elevate the dish.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to your taste for the perfect balance.
- Fresh basil: For garnish, this adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor that brightens the dish.
Feel free to get creative! You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where you can find them available for printing.
How to Make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Making Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to impress in no time.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Make sure they’re spread out evenly. This helps them cook uniformly. Trust me, no one likes dry chicken!
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed. The aroma will make your mouth water!
Step 3: Combine in the Crockpot
Pour the creamy sauce mixture over the chicken in the crockpot. Make sure the chicken is well coated. This is where the magic happens, as the flavors meld together during cooking.
Step 4: Cook to Perfection
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer, the better! You want that chicken to be tender and infused with flavor. Just let it do its thing while you tackle your busy day.
Step 5: Shred and Serve
Once the cooking time is up, shred the chicken right in the sauce. Stir it all together to combine. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil for that extra touch. Your family will be begging for seconds!
Tips for Success
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safety.
- For extra flavor, sear the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot.
- Don’t skip the fresh basil; it brightens the dish beautifully.
- Feel free to adjust seasonings to suit your taste—cooking is all about personal preference!
- Leftovers? This dish reheats wonderfully for lunch the next day!
Equipment Needed
- Crockpot: The star of the show! Any slow cooker will do, but a programmable one makes life easier.
- Mixing bowl: For combining your sauce ingredients. A large measuring cup works too!
- Meat thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly.
- Serving spoon: For shredding and serving the chicken.
Variations of Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
- Vegetable Boost: Add chopped spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. They’ll soak up the delicious sauce!
- Spicy Kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist. It’s a great way to heat things up!
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile. They add a lovely aroma!
- Low-Carb Option: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta for a lighter meal.
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in some grated Parmesan cheese just before serving for a creamy, cheesy finish that’s irresistible!
Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
- Pasta: Serve over a bed of fettuccine or penne to soak up that creamy sauce.
- Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice makes a perfect base for this dish.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness.
- Wine: Pair with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, for a delightful dinner.
- Presentation: Garnish with extra basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a restaurant-worthy look!
FAQs about Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
As you dive into making Crockpot Marry Me Chicken, you might have a few questions. Here are some common ones I’ve encountered, along with helpful answers!
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can! Just remember to increase the cooking time by an hour or so. Frozen chicken will still turn out tender and delicious.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or even a fresh salad. The creamy sauce is perfect for soaking into whatever you choose!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything the night before and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the crockpot in the morning, and you’ll have a lovely dinner waiting for you!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for a quick meal!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that your chicken broth is gluten-free as well.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating moments that bring joy to your family. The aroma wafting through your home as it cooks is like a warm hug, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This dish not only satisfies hunger but also warms hearts, making it perfect for busy nights or special occasions. I love how simple ingredients can transform into something so delightful. So, grab your crockpot and let this recipe work its magic. Trust me, you’ll be hearing “I do” to more than just dinner!
Print
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken: A Dish That Wows Hearts!
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a delicious and romantic dish that combines tender chicken with a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, perfect for impressing your loved ones.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken in the sauce and stir to combine.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Notes
- This dish pairs well with pasta or rice.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Crockpot Marry Me Chicken, slow cooker chicken, romantic dinner, easy chicken recipe