I’ve been on a mission to find dinners that are both delicious and low-effort, and let me tell you, this Easy Crockpot Marry Me Chicken has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug after a long day—creamy, flavorful, and so comforting.
I first stumbled across a version of this dish online, and after tweaking it to suit my family’s tastes, it’s become a go-to for busy weeknights or when I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
The legend behind “Marry Me Chicken” is that it’s so irresistible, it might just inspire a proposal! Whether or not that’s true, this dish is a winner for its rich, savory sauce and tender chicken that practically melts in your mouth.
Let’s dive into why this recipe will steal your heart and how you can make it at home.
Read Also: Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Why You’ll Love This Easy Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe
This crockpot version of Marry Me Chicken is a lifesaver for anyone craving a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss.
The creamy, sun-dried tomato-infused sauce paired with juicy chicken breasts is pure comfort food, and the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting.
You just toss everything in, let it simmer, and come back to a dish that’s bursting with flavor. It’s versatile enough for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, and the leftovers (if you have any!) taste just as good the next day.
Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- Minimal prep time—perfect for busy schedules.
- Rich, creamy sauce that’s indulgent yet simple to make.
- Customizable with your favorite herbs or spice levels.
- Pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.
- Great for meal prepping or feeding a crowd.
Ingredients For Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
You’ll need just a handful of ingredients to whip up this mouthwatering dish. Here’s what to gather:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs or 680g)
- 1 cup heavy cream (240ml)
- ½ cup chicken broth (120ml)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped (about 100g)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50g)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (15ml)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (2g)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick) (1g)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
You don’t need much to make this recipe, just a few kitchen staples. Here’s the lineup:
- Crockpot (6-quart or larger)
- Measuring cups and measuring spoons
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs or spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this dish is as easy as it gets, but I’ll walk you through each step to ensure it comes out perfectly every time. Let’s get started!
1. Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this helps them brown nicely. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
If you have time, let the chicken sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to ensure even cooking.
2. Sear the Chicken (Optional)
For extra flavor, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. This step is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor.
If you’re short on time, you can skip it and place the raw chicken directly in the crockpot.
3. Layer the Crockpot
Place the seared (or raw) chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot in a single layer.
Sprinkle the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes evenly over the chicken.
These ingredients will infuse the chicken with bold, savory notes as it cooks.
4. Mix the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of heavy cream, ½ cup of chicken broth, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if using).
Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. This creamy sauce is the heart of the dish, so make sure it’s blended thoroughly.
5. Cook in the Crockpot
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken breasts in the crockpot, ensuring they’re fully coated.
Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
The low setting is my go-to for the most tender results.
6. Shred or Serve Whole
Once cooked, use tongs to remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot.
You can serve them whole or shred them with two forks for a pulled-chicken texture that soaks up the sauce.
If shredding, return the chicken to the crockpot and stir to coat in the sauce.
7. Garnish and Serve
Taste the sauce and adjust with additional salt or black pepper if needed.
Sprinkle with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
Serve hot with your favorite sides, and get ready for everyone to ask for seconds!
Read Also: Marry Me Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
Tips for Success
To make sure your Marry Me Chicken turns out perfect, here are some tips I’ve learned from making this dish over and over:
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor; pre-grated can sometimes be grainy.
- If the sauce is too thick after cooking, thin it out with a splash of chicken broth.
- Don’t skip the garlic—it adds a crucial savory depth.
- Check the chicken’s internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
- For a smoother sauce, blend the sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce before pouring it into the crockpot.
Read Also: Chicken Caprese Skillet Recipe
Serving Suggestions
This dish is so versatile, it pairs well with just about anything. The creamy sauce and tender chicken make it a perfect centerpiece for a variety of sides, turning a simple meal into something special. Here are some ideas to round out your dinner:
- Serve over pasta like fettuccine or penne to soak up the sauce.
- Pair with mashed potatoes for a comforting, hearty meal.
- Try it with a side of grilled vegetables for a lighter option.
- Serve with a crusty baguette to mop up the sauce.
- Add a fresh green salad for a balanced plate.
Read Also: Grilled Vegetable Skewers Recipe
Variations to Try
Want to switch things up? This recipe is super adaptable. Here are some fun twists to try:
- Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
- Add spinach or kale in the last 30 minutes for a nutrient boost.
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Toss in some mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
- Make it spicy by doubling the red pepper flakes.
Read Also: 10 Delicious exican Chicken Thigh Recipes
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers are a dream with this recipe! Store and reheat properly to keep the flavors intact:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in the microwave on medium power, stirring occasionally, or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.
Read Also: Healthy Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Nutritional Facts
Here’s a rough breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on specific brands and portion sizes.
Read Also: Chicken Alfredo Recipe with Jar Sauce
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
This recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with ingredients that offer some great health perks. The combination of lean protein, healthy fats, and nutrient-dense add-ins makes this dish a wholesome choice for any night of the week. Here’s why the key players are good for you:
- Chicken breasts: Lean source of protein that supports muscle growth and repair.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which may support heart health.
- Garlic: Has anti-inflammatory properties and may boost immunity.
- Parmesan cheese: Provides calcium for strong bones and teeth.
- Olive oil: Contains healthy monounsaturated fats that promote heart health.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight for best results. Cooking from frozen may require an extra 30-60 minutes in the crockpot and could affect the texture.
2. Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk and use a dairy-free Parmesan cheese alternative. The sauce will still be creamy with a slightly different flavor.
3. How can I thicken the sauce?
If the sauce is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to make a slurry, then stir it into the crockpot during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
4. Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?
Yes, sear the chicken breasts in a large skillet, then add the sauce ingredients and simmer on low for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Is this recipe keto-friendly?
This recipe is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly, especially if you skip starchy sides like pasta. Serve with zucchini noodles or a green salad to keep it keto.
Read Also: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Recipe
Final Thoughts
This Easy Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is the kind of recipe that makes you look like a rockstar in the kitchen without breaking a sweat. The creamy, flavorful sauce and tender chicken come together so effortlessly, it’s hard to believe it’s a set-it-and-forget-it meal.
I love how it fills my home with the most inviting aroma, and every time I serve it, my family can’t stop raving about it. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a special dinner, this dish delivers every time.
Try it out, and I bet it’ll become a favorite in your house too!
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