This Easy Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a simple and tasty dish that’ll make your heart skip a beat! Juicy chicken is cooked in a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs.
You won’t believe how easy it is—just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the magic! I love serving it over pasta or rice. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you prefer dark meat, you can substitute chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a lovely umami flavor. If you’re out, feel free to use fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers instead. You might want to add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a similar tang!
Heavy Cream: This creates the creamy sauce. You can replace it with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative if you want a lighter option. Just keep in mind that consistency may differ slightly.
Italian Seasoning: This blend is fantastic for flavor! If you don’t have it, mix oregano, basil, and thyme together. This combo works well in just about any dish!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Chicken?
Searing the chicken before adding it to the crockpot might seem like an extra step, but it makes a noticeable difference in flavor. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This locks in juices and adds depth to the final dish.
Don’t skip this step if you want that rich flavor to shine through in your creamy sauce!
How to Make Easy Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), drained and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10-15 minutes to prep and then cooks in the crockpot for 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. So, it’s perfect for a busy day when you want to come home to a warm, comforting meal! Whatever your choice, you’ll find it extremely satisfying and full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended):
Start by heating olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Searing adds a nice depth of flavor to your chicken!
2. Add Chicken to the Crockpot:
After searing, place the chicken breasts directly into the crockpot. Don’t worry if the chicken isn’t cooked all the way through yet; it will finish cooking in the crockpot.
3. Mix the Creamy Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything together until well combined.
4. Combine in the Crockpot:
Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken in the crockpot, ensuring the chicken is well-covered. This is where all the flavors will come together, making your chicken incredibly tasty!
5. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The chicken is done when it’s tender and cooked through. If you can, stir the sauce occasionally for even more flavor.
6. Final Touches:
Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust with extra salt and pepper if needed. You can also stir in a bit more Parmesan cheese for extra creaminess, if you’d like!
7. Serve It Up:
For a lovely presentation, serve the creamy chicken over your choice of cooked pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes. Spoon extra sauce over the top and garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color.
Enjoy your delicious, creamy crockpot chicken that’s sure to impress!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to increase the cooking time. If cooking on low, plan for around 6-8 hours, while on high, it might take 3-4 hours. Ensure that the chicken is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative. Also, use a dairy-free cheese made from nuts or soy instead of Parmesan. Just note that the flavor will slightly differ!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth to keep it moist and creamy.
Can I Add More Veggies to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can add veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just chop them up and add them to the crockpot alongside the chicken. If you prefer, sauté them first to enhance their flavors!
