Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts slow-cooked in a rich, savory sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. The recipe’s name comes from its irresistible flavor—so good it might inspire a proposal! This easy, set-it-and-forget-it meal is perfect for busy weeknights or romantic dinners. Serve it over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a delicious and comforting meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: Simply add ingredients to the crockpot and let it do the work.
• Rich and creamy: The sauce is loaded with garlic, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Perfect for meal prep: Reheats well and tastes even better the next day.
• Kid-friendly: Creamy, cheesy sauce appeals to all ages.
• Versatile: Pairs well with pasta, rice, or vegetables.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken

• 1 ½ to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed, drained)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

Optional Garnishes

• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Sprinkle chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. Sear the Chicken (Optional): Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step adds flavor but is optional.

Cook in the Crockpot

3. Add to Crockpot: Place the chicken in the crockpot. Add minced garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, grated Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, thyme, basil, and red pepper flakes. Stir gently to combine.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If the sauce is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir into the sauce and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until thickened.

Serve

6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley and more grated Parmesan. Serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
• Total Time: 4-5 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Add Veggies: Stir in fresh spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Make It Spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
• Use Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs are also great and stay extra juicy.
• Lower Calorie Option: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
• Cheesy Twist: Add ½ cup of shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and often remain juicier than chicken breasts.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the crockpot. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can use milk, but the sauce may be thinner. You can thicken it with a bit of cornstarch or flour.

What can I serve with Marry Me Chicken?

Serve over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream substitute and vegan Parmesan for a dairy-free version.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Cook the chicken until just done (165°F internal temperature) and avoid overcooking, especially on the high setting.

Can I add pasta directly to the crockpot?

Yes, add uncooked pasta and an extra 1-2 cups of broth during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Can I make this dish in an Instant Pot?

Yes, sauté the chicken and garlic first, then pressure cook for 10 minutes. Use the sauté function to thicken the sauce if needed.

How do I keep the sauce from curdling?

Use heavy cream (not low-fat milk) and avoid boiling the sauce to prevent curdling.

Is Crockpot Marry Me Chicken good for meal prep?

Yes, it reheats well and is perfect for meal prepping. Store with cooked pasta or rice for easy meals throughout the week.

Conclusion

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a delicious and comforting dish that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. With its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, this meal is sure to impress your family and guests alike. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a special dish for date night, this recipe delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Give it a try and savor every creamy, garlicky bite!

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