Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, dreamy dish that’s sure to impress! With tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach cooked together in a rich sauce, each bite is like a hug on a plate!
This dish is perfect for busy days because you just toss everything in your slow cooker and let it do the magic. I love serving it over pasta or rice to soak up that delicious sauce—yum! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe as they cook evenly and soak up flavors. If you prefer, you can substitute with thighs for a juicier option.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a rich and tangy flavor. If you can’t find them, try using fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a different twist.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds delicious depth. You can swap it with Pecorino Romano or omit it for a dairy-free version. Nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor without the cheese!
How Do I Cook the Chicken Perfectly in a Crock Pot?
Cooking chicken in a crock pot is easy, but there are some tips to ensure it’s juicy and flavorful. Make sure to season the chicken well before placing it in the pot. This adds flavor right from the start.
- Sear the chicken briefly in a skillet before adding to the crock pot if you want an extra layer of flavor.
- Cook on low for the best texture—4-5 hours will do the trick without drying out the meat.
- Keep the lid on during cooking to maintain moisture and heat.
After cooking, stirring the sauce is key! It helps to combine all the flavors and makes sure every bite is delicious.
How to Make Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Sauce:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then you’ll need to let it cook in the crock pot for 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. Just set it and forget it, and enjoy the wonderful aromas while it cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning evenly over the chicken. This will add lots of flavor to each bite! Set the seasoned chicken aside while you prepare the rest.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In a skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s aromatic. This mixture will give your dish a wonderful base flavor!
3. Assemble in the Crock Pot:
Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to the bottom of your crock pot. Place the seasoned chicken breasts right on top. Then, scatter the chopped sun-dried tomatoes over the chicken, spreading them out evenly for a delightful flavor throughout.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese together until it’s well blended. Pour this creamy mixture over the chicken in the crock pot, ensuring everything is covered in luscious sauce.
5. Cook the Chicken:
Now it’s time to cook! Cover the crock pot and set it on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The chicken is done when it’s fully cooked and tender to the fork. Feel free to check occasionally, but don’t lift the lid too often!
6. Finish Up and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the crock pot. Give the sauce a good stir, adjusting the seasoning if needed. Serve the chicken drizzled with the creamy sauce and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Enjoy this delicious meal that’s sure to impress!
### FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! However, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Cook on high for about 4-5 hours or on low for 6-8 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). No need to thaw beforehand, just ensure everything is properly cooked through!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of cornstarch to thicken. For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream or a non-dairy milk thickened with cornstarch. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly.
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 in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini during the last hour of cooking for extra flavor and nutrition. Just chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly with the chicken.
