Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, dreamy dish that’s perfect for impressing anyone! Tender chicken breasts swim in a rich sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs.
This dish is so good, it might just inspire a proposal! 😄 I love to serve it over rice or pasta. It’s an easy way to make a special meal without breaking a sweat in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this recipe as they cook tender in the slow cooker. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey breasts can do the trick too.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Choose sun-dried tomatoes that are not packed in oil for this dish. If you can’t find them, you could soak dried tomatoes in hot water for about 30 minutes to soften them before using.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient gives the dish its rich texture. If you’re aiming for a lighter version, opt for half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative, though it may change the flavor a bit.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese adds creaminess to the sauce. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using a vegan cream cheese alternative.
Cheeses: I love using mozzarella for its meltiness and Parmesan for its flavor. In case of a shortage, cheddar can work instead, although the flavor will shift a bit.
Why Is Stirring in Cheese Important for the Flavor?
Stirring in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese towards the end of cooking ensures they melt perfectly without becoming rubbery or tough. Adding them 30 minutes before serving allows the cheeses to blend into the sauce, creating an irresistible creamy texture.
- Make sure to mix the cheeses in well so every bite has that cheesy goodness.
- Keep the heat on low to avoid scalding the cheese; you want it melting, not cooking.
How to Make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (not packed in oil)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Serving:
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked pasta (like linguine or fettuccine)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and then needs to cook in the crockpot for 4-6 hours on low. So, you can set it and forget it while it works its magic! Perfect for a cozy dinner without a lot of fuss.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. Season them generously with salt and pepper to add some flavor. You want to make sure they are well-seasoned!
2. Mix the Creamy Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Add a bit more salt and pepper if you like. Stir everything together until it’s nicely blended. This is the sauce that will make your chicken super creamy and delicious!
3. Combine in the Crockpot:
Now it’s time to pour that yummy creamy mixture over the chicken in your crockpot. Make sure the chicken is well-coated with the sauce. It should look rich and inviting!
4. Let It Cook:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Your kitchen will start smelling amazing as the chicken becomes tender and flavorful. Check it around the 4-hour mark to ensure it’s cooking well!
5. Add the Cheeses:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce in the crockpot. Give it a good mix until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is creamy.
6. Shred the Chicken:
Once the cooking time is up, take two forks and shred the chicken right in the crockpot. Mix it with the sauce so every bit of chicken is coated in that delicious cheesy sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to serve! Plate some cooked pasta on each dish and top it generously with the saucy chicken. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh basil on top for a burst of flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw the chicken first for even cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour. Once thawed, season as instructed and proceed with the recipe!
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even evaporated milk. Just keep in mind that using these alternatives may slightly change the creaminess of the sauce.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken and sauce together — just make sure it’s cooled completely before placing it in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, feel free to add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy mixture before pouring it over the chicken. Adjust to your taste, and enjoy the added kick!
