Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

A Creamy, Flavorful, and Irresistible Dish!

Are you ready to fall in love with dinner? This Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken recipe is so deliciously rich and creamy, it’s rumored to be “proposal-worthy.” Whether you're looking to impress a special someone or just want to treat yourself to a comforting, flavorful meal, this dish will do the trick! Made in a slow cooker, it’s an easy, hands-off recipe that yields tender chicken simmered in a creamy Parmesan sauce with sundried tomatoes and herbs. Let’s dive into the full guide on how to make this romantic, mouth-watering meal!

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What is Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken?

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a slow-cooked version of the famous “Marry Me Chicken,” a creamy, savory chicken dish that's so delicious it’s jokingly said to inspire marriage proposals. The dish typically features boneless chicken breasts or thighs cooked in a rich, creamy sauce with Parmesan cheese, garlic, and sundried tomatoes. The slow cooker version simplifies the process while ensuring the chicken turns out tender and flavorful every time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a special weekend dinner.

Ingredients List for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Here’s everything you need to make this delectable Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup sundried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained and roughly chopped)
• 1 tablespoon garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Ingredients List for Thickening Sauce (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add one of the following at the end of cooking:

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to create a slurry)
• ¼ cup cream cheese (softened, for extra creaminess)

These optional ingredients will help thicken the sauce and give it a rich, luxurious texture.

Substitutions and Variations

This Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken recipe is flexible and can be adjusted to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few substitutions and variations to try:

• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be substituted for a juicier and richer flavor.
• Lighter option: Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free version.
• Add spinach: Stir in fresh baby spinach or kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking for added greens.
• Use different cheeses: While Parmesan is classic, you can experiment with Asiago, Romano, or even mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy version: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s dive into how to make this creamy, delicious Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken:

1. Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts (or thighs) with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried oregano. Set aside.
2. Sear the chicken (optional): For extra flavor and a richer texture, sear the chicken on both sides in a hot skillet with a little olive oil for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned. This step is optional but adds extra depth to the dish.
3. Layer the ingredients in the Crock Pot: Place the seasoned chicken into the slow cooker. Add the minced garlic, sundried tomatoes, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, ensuring that the chicken is mostly submerged in the creamy liquid.
4. Add the Parmesan: Stir the grated Parmesan into the sauce mixture. The cheese will melt as the chicken cooks, creating a rich, cheesy sauce.
5. Cook on low: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). You can also cook on high for 2-3 hours if you're short on time.
6. Thicken the sauce (optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir this into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, you can stir in softened cream cheese at the end for extra creaminess.
7. Garnish and serve: Once the chicken is done, taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice.

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

1. Season the chicken: Rub the chicken with spices for a well-seasoned base.
2. Sear for extra flavor (optional): Searing locks in flavor and adds a golden crust.
3. Add to the slow cooker: Layer the chicken, garlic, sundried tomatoes, and liquid ingredients in the crockpot.
4. Cook low and slow: Set the Crock Pot to low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
5. Thicken if necessary: For a thicker sauce, add cornstarch slurry or cream cheese toward the end of cooking.
6. Serve and garnish: Finish with fresh herbs and serve over your favorite side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the chicken: While slow cookers are forgiving, it’s still important not to overcook the chicken. Check for doneness at the 4-hour mark on low to ensure it’s cooked but not dry.
• Using low-fat cream: Low-fat or light cream can cause the sauce to split in the slow cooker. Stick with heavy cream or half-and-half for a stable, creamy sauce.
• Skipping the sear: Searing the chicken adds depth and a nice caramelized exterior. While it’s optional, it’s worth the extra step for maximum flavor.
• Not stirring the sauce at the end: To ensure the Parmesan melts smoothly into the sauce, give it a good stir toward the end of cooking.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can elevate this comforting dish. Here are a few ideas to make your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken look as amazing as it tastes:

• Serve over pasta: Spoon the chicken and sauce over cooked pasta, such as fettuccine, penne, or linguine, for a classic pairing.
• With mashed potatoes: The creamy sauce is perfect over fluffy mashed potatoes. Add a drizzle of olive oil or extra Parmesan on top.
• Rice or cauliflower rice: For a lighter option, serve the chicken over a bed of white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice.
• Add a vegetable side: Serve with roasted vegetables, sautéed spinach, or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish.

How to Serve Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

This dish is versatile and can be served in a variety of ways depending on the occasion:

• Family-style: Serve the chicken directly from the slow cooker with a large spoon, letting everyone help themselves to the juicy chicken and creamy sauce.
• Individually plated: For a more refined presentation, slice the chicken and plate it over a bed of pasta or mashed potatoes. Drizzle the sauce on top and finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Presentation Ideas for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

• Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a sprinkle of chopped basil or parsley to brighten up the dish visually and add a burst of fresh flavor.
• Top with extra Parmesan: A little extra grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a touch of elegance and extra savory goodness.
• Serve with a side of crusty bread: The creamy sauce begs to be soaked up with some fresh, warm bread!

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe Tips

• Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-grated Parmesan often doesn’t melt as smoothly as freshly grated cheese. For a silkier sauce, grate your own Parmesan cheese.
• Keep an eye on the sauce: If the sauce starts to look too thin, don’t hesitate to thicken it with a cornstarch slurry or cream cheese. You want a rich, velvety sauce!
• Double the recipe for leftovers: This dish is even better the next day, so feel free to double the recipe and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner later in the week.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it will increase the cooking time. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving. You may also want to thaw the chicken first for more even cooking.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce thickens too much.

Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free version.

Q: Can I freeze Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken?
A: Yes, this dish freezes well. Store the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Conclusion

This Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken recipe is sure to become a go-to in your dinner rotation, whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight meal. With tender chicken simmered in a creamy, cheesy sauce loaded with sundried tomatoes and herbs, it’s a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Plus, it’s so easy to make in the slow cooker! Give it a try—you might just find yourself falling in love with this dish (or inspiring someone else to!).

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