It looks like you’ve shared a link to an image of “Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken.” Here’s a fun and simple description for that dish:
This Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, dreamy dish that pairs perfectly with pasta or rice. Juicy chicken is cooked in a rich sauce with sun-dried tomatoes—who wouldn’t love that?
Honestly, if serving this doesn’t win you compliments, I don’t know what will! I often make this when I want a fuss-free dinner that feels special without the extra work. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: For this recipe, I recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts as they stay moist and tender in the crockpot. If you’re avoiding chicken, try using firm tofu or seitan for a veggie version.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: The oil-packed variety gives great flavor. If you can’t find them, canned diced tomatoes work too. Just drain them to keep the sauce from becoming too watery.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich. If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream like cashew cream. I’ve tried both, and they still taste great!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated always tastes best! That said, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or a vegan cheese if needed. Keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly.
Fresh Basil: This is perfect for finishing the dish with a fresh touch. If you don’t have fresh basil, dried basil can be a substitute, but the flavor’s not quite the same, so use only half the amount.
How Do I Properly Sear Chicken for a Great Texture?
Searing the chicken is a crucial step for adding flavor and texture. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke.
- Season each side of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper; this enhances the taste.
- Gently place the chicken in the skillet, letting it cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes on each side. You want a nice golden-brown crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to maintain the heat.
- Remove the chicken, set it aside, and don’t worry about cooking it through right now. It’ll finish in the crockpot!
How to Make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Olive oil (for searing the chicken)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (in oil)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then requires cooking time of 4-5 hours on low (or 2-3 hours on high) in the crockpot. So, you can start it in the morning and have a delicious dinner waiting for you when you come home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Chicken:
Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Carefully place them in the skillet and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set them aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant—this smells amazing! Now, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed, and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
3. Add to Crockpot:
Pour the delicious sauce mixture into the bottom of your crockpot. Next, gently place the seared chicken breasts on top of the sauce. It will soak up all those lovely flavors as it cooks!
4. Cook:
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for about 4-5 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken is ready when it’s cooked through and tender, perfectly infused with the creamy sauce.
5. Garnish and Serve:
When the chicken is done, take it out and serve it on plates. Spoon the sauce generously over each piece of chicken, and sprinkle with the fresh chopped basil for a pop of color and flavor!
6. Enjoy:
Lastly, serve your creamy, flavorful chicken over pasta, rice, or with some crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. This dish is perfect for a romantic dinner or any special occasion! Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw frozen chicken safely in the refrigerator overnight or by submerging it in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for about an hour. Pat it dry before searing to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter (1 cup milk mixed with 2 tablespoons melted butter). For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream can also work well, giving you a slightly different flavor but still delicious!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and sear the chicken a day in advance, then store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply add everything to the crockpot and follow the cooking instructions!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep the sauce creamy and prevent it from drying out.
