Why Make This Recipe
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a perfect dish for busy families or anyone who loves a hearty meal without much fuss. This recipe combines tender chicken with a creamy sauce that is rich and flavorful. It’s easy to prepare, and the slow cooking method ensures that flavors meld beautifully.
Imagine coming home to a warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen. This dish not only tastes amazing, but it’s also great for impressing family and friends. Everyone will want the recipe after the first bite!
Equipment Needed for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
To make this delicious recipe, you will need a few simple pieces of equipment. Here’s what you should have ready:
- 6-quart crockpot or slow cooker
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing spoon
Having these items during your cooking will help streamline the process. It will ensure you can focus on making this mouthwatering dish without interruptions.
What You Need to Make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
To create this delightful meal, here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- 4 boneless (skinless chicken breasts)
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients are easily found at your local grocery store. They come together to create a dish that feels fancy but is incredibly simple to prepare.
How to Cook Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Step by Step
Begin by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. It’s essential to spread them out evenly so the heat can circulate well around each piece. Next, sprinkle the Italian seasoning and minced garlic directly over the chicken breasts. This will allow the flavors to penetrate as the dish cooks.
Now add the sun-dried tomatoes on top of the chicken. They will provide a tangy sweetness that enhances the overall taste. Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and tomatoes. This broth helps keep everything juicy and adds more flavor to the slow-cooking process.
Once all the ingredients are in, cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set the crockpot to cook on low for six hours. This long cooking time is what makes the chicken tender and allows all the flavors to blend beautifully. After about 5.5 hours, check the chicken. It should be cooked through and fork-tender.
During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the heavy cream. This addition will make the sauce creamy and rich, which is a highlight of this dish. Lastly, before serving, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken. The cheese will melt slightly, adding a wonderful flavor and texture.
How to Make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Making Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is straightforward and perfect for anyone, regardless of cooking skill level. Start by prepping your ingredients in advance. This will speed up the process and make cooking a breeze.
Once you have everything ready, follow the step-by-step instructions provided above. The beauty of a crockpot recipe is its simplicity. Once you set it up, you can forget about it for a few hours, allowing you to focus on other tasks. Enjoy the wonderful smell that fills your home while the chicken cooks.
How to Serve Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
When it’s time to serve, dish out the chicken along with the creamy sauce. You can serve it directly from the crockpot for a casual meal or transfer it to a serving dish for a more formal setting.
A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top adds a nice touch. Feel free to garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an added burst of freshness. This dish is excellent for family dinners or even gatherings with friends.
What to Serve with Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken pairs beautifully with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are a few suggestions:
- Steamed vegetables: Broccoli or green beans provide a healthy, colorful addition.
- Rice: Serve with white rice or brown rice to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Pasta: A side of pasta tossed in olive oil or butter makes a hearty pairing.
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can elevate the dish even further.
These side dishes complete the meal and enhance the overall eating experience.
How to Store Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
If you happen to have leftovers, storing them is easy. Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store the container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, leftovers will remain good for up to four days.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the leftovers. Place them in a freezer-safe container, ensuring there is minimal air inside. Frozen, it will maintain its quality for about three months.
Tips to Make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
To ensure your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken turns out great, here are some helpful tips. First, don’t skip searing the chicken if you have time; it adds extra flavor. Browning the chicken briefly in a skillet can enhance the taste.
When adding sun-dried tomatoes, consider varying the type. You can use oil-packed for added richness or dry ones for a deeper flavor. Additionally, measuring your ingredients accurately helps maintain the balance of flavors in this dish.
Finally, always taste before serving. Adjust the salt and pepper according to your liking. A simple adjustment can elevate the dish even further.
Variation
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is versatile, allowing for various modifications to suit your taste. If you want to add some extra veggies, consider throwing in spinach or artichoke hearts. They cook down beautifully and enhance the dish’s nutritional value.
For those who prefer a bit more spice, a dash of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick. Lastly, switching out the chicken breast for thighs can provide a richer flavor due to their higher fat content.
Best Time to Make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
This dish is perfect for any time of the year. However, it shines particularly during fall and winter months when comfort food is in demand. Imagine enjoying this warm dish after a cold day.
It’s also excellent for meal prep, making it a top choice for busy weekdays or family gatherings. No matter when you decide to make it, the outcome will always be delicious.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken turns out perfectly, avoid some common mistakes. Firstly, ensure not to overfill the crockpot, which can lead to uneven cooking. Always follow the ingredient amounts listed in the recipe.
Another mistake is cooking on high instead of low. Though it may seem tempting to cook it faster, the low setting allows flavors to develop more fully. Lastly, don’t skip the final steps of adding heavy cream and Parmesan right before serving; these are crucial for that rich and creamy texture.
Nutritional Notes (Optional)
If you’re concerned about nutrition, Crockpot Marry Me Chicken can be a balanced meal option. It packs protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the cream. Coupled with a side of veggies or whole grains, it can offer a well-rounded meal.
For those monitoring calories, be mindful of portion sizes and consider a lighter cream or milk alternative. Adjusting the recipe allows for personalization based on dietary needs.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, frozen chicken breasts can be used. However, ensure to increase the cooking time by an hour or more to ensure they cook thoroughly.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare all the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. In the morning, just place everything in the crockpot and cook as directed.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the sauce thickens in the refrigerator, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up while reheating.
Conclusion
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a delightful and straightforward recipe that fits perfectly into any busy schedule. With minimal prep time and a slow-cooking process, you can enjoy a flavorful meal that will please your family and friends. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your rotation.
Try it today and watch everyone fall in love!
