Why Make This Recipe
If you’re looking for an easy yet delightful meal, Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a fantastic choice. This dish not only boasts rich flavors but also requires minimal effort. Just set your crockpot and let it work its magic while you go about your day.
The name “Marry Me Chicken” hints at how delicious it is—some say it’s so good it might even inspire a proposal! Perfect for busy weeknights or romantic dinners, this recipe combines tender chicken with a creamy sauce and sun-dried tomatoes, creating a meal that your loved ones will crave.
Equipment Needed for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
To prepare this delicious dish, you will need a few essential kitchen tools that will make your cooking process smooth and easy.
- A crockpot or slow cooker is the star of this recipe; it allows for low and slow cooking for tender chicken.
- A good set of measuring cups and spoons ensures accurate ingredient portions.
- A whisk is needed to mix the sauce ingredients together thoroughly.
- A cutting board and knife will help prepare ingredients like garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Lastly, you’ll want some serving utensils to make plating your dish easy.
What You Need to Make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Cook Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Step by Step
Begin by preparing the chicken. Take the chicken breasts and season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Once seasoned, set them aside.
Next, create the sauce. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the chicken broth with one tablespoon of cornstarch until it’s smooth. To this mixture, add the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes if you like a spicy kick. Whisk all these ingredients together until well combined and creamy.
Now, it’s time to assemble the crockpot. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot. Pour the creamy sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring that all the breasts are fully coated in the rich sauce.
Add in the sun-dried tomatoes by sprinkling them over the top of the chicken and sauce. This addition will enhance the dish’s flavor beautifully.
Cook your meal by setting the crockpot to low for four hours. If you’re short on time, you can set it to high for two hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender when it’s done.
As the cooking time winds down, you can finish the dish with butter. In the last thirty minutes, add the butter to the crockpot. Stir it into the sauce as it melts to create a rich, velvety finish.
When ready to serve, garnish your dish with freshly chopped basil or parsley if desired. Enjoy the chicken with a generous spoonful of its creamy sauce.
How to Serve Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
When it comes to serving Crockpot Marry Me Chicken, presentation can elevate your dining experience. Start by placing a chicken breast on each plate and spooning some of the creamy sauce generously over the top. The vibrant colors of the sauce and sun-dried tomatoes will make the dish visually appealing.
Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and added flavor. This dish is comforting and indulgent, making it a perfect centerpiece for a meal.
What to Serve with Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Pairing side dishes with Crockpot Marry Me Chicken can enhance the overall meal. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can complement the rich flavors of the chicken.
For a heartier option, serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or buttery rice. The sauce is delicious, so something that can soak it up will work wonderfully.
Additionally, roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli can add color and health to the plate. You want your meal to be balanced, and these sides provide freshness alongside the creamy chicken dish.
How to Store Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Storing leftovers from your delicious Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is simple. Allow the chicken to cool down to room temperature before refrigerating it.
Transfer any remaining chicken and sauce to an airtight container to keep it fresh. Stored properly, it can last in your refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.
To freeze, place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container, ensuring you leave some space for expansion. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Tips to Make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
To make your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken even better, consider a few helpful tips. First, always taste and adjust seasoning; sometimes, you may need a bit more salt or pepper to bring out the flavors fully.
Using fresh garlic instead of pre-minced can make a notable difference in flavor. You can also experiment with other herbs, like fresh thyme or rosemary, to add a personal touch.
Another tip is to not rush the cooking process. Cooking on low for the entire time will yield the most tender chicken. If using frozen chicken breasts, make sure to extend the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked.
Variation
If you want to switch things up, there are several variations you can try with Crockpot Marry Me Chicken. For instance, you can add vegetables directly into the pot. Zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach can all complement the dish while adding nutrition.
Another variation is to change the cheese. Instead of Parmesan, try using mozzarella for a different flavor profile. The melting cheese will add a delightful stringy texture to the dish.
For more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add in chopped jalapeños when creating the sauce.
Best Time to Make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is perfect for any time of year, but it shines particularly well during colder months. The comforting, creamy sauce makes it an ideal dish for warm, cozy dinners.
It’s also a great option for busy weekdays when you need a meal that requires little hands-on time. Simply prep in the morning, and let the crockpot do all the work.
Additionally, this meal is fantastic for special occasions, like anniversaries or family gatherings, where you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While making Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is straightforward, here are some common mistakes to avoid. Firstly, ensure you do not overcrowd the pot. The chicken pieces need space to cook evenly.
Another mistake is not seasoning enough. Don’t be shy with your salt and pepper; proper seasoning will elevate the overall flavor.
Finally, avoid lifting the lid too often during cooking. Each time you open the lid, steam escapes, which can prolong cooking time.
Nutritional Notes
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a hearty dish, rich in protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the heavy cream and cheese. However, it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes if you’re watching your calorie intake.
The dish is also quite filling due to its creamy sauce and tender chicken. Pairing it with lighter sides like salads or steamed veggies can help balance your meal.
If necessary, you can make some adjustments, such as using low-fat cream or cheese for a lighter version without sacrificing too much flavor.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but cooking times will vary. Bone-in chicken may take longer to cook compared to boneless breasts.
Can I skip the sun-dried tomatoes?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan, you can leave them out or replace them with another ingredient, like mushrooms or fresh tomatoes.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Preparing the ingredients and storing them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook is a great way to save time.
Conclusion
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is an easy, flavorful dish that brings joy to any table. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and hints of Italian herbs, it has something for everyone. Whether you want to impress guests or simply enjoy a cozy dinner at home, this recipe delivers satisfaction in every bite.
Don’t forget to add your personal touch, and enjoy the compliments you’ll receive when you serve this delightful meal!
