This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a creamy and cheesy dish that brings rich flavors to your dinner table. With chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy sauce, it’s sure to impress!
You won’t believe how easy it is! Just toss everything in the crockpot, let it cook, and before you know it, you’ll be a kitchen superstar. I mean, who wouldn’t want to be proposed to over dinner? 💍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs can be a great substitute—just adjust the cooking time slightly as they can take a bit longer to cook.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a wonderful tangy flavor. You can substitute them with roasted red peppers if you want something milder or even fresh tomatoes if they’re in season, though they won’t have the same intensity.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce a rich texture. If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream works well but will add a hint of coconut flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds depth and saltiness. Pecorino Romano can be used as a substitute if you’re looking for a sharper taste. Nutritional yeast is a good dairy-free option that will give a similar umami punch.
How Do You Achieve the Best Flavor with Searing?
Searing chicken before adding it to the crockpot can greatly enhance the flavor. It creates a nice golden crust that locks in juices and adds richness to the dish.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- This step is optional, so if you’re short on time, you can place the chicken directly into the crockpot instead.
- Just remember that searing adds extra layers of flavor, making your dish even more delicious!
How to Make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil for searing (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes of prep time, plus the cooking time of 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. This slow cooker recipe is perfect for a busy day since you can set it and forget it, coming back to a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Chicken (Optional):
If you’d like to add extra flavor, start by heating a little olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear each chicken breast for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. If you prefer, you can skip this step and cook the chicken directly in the crockpot!
2. Prepare the Crockpot:
Once the chicken is ready, place the seared (or raw) chicken breasts directly into your crockpot. Make sure they are in a single layer for even cooking.
3. Mix the Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. This sauce will be creamy and flavorful!
4. Add Sauce to Chicken:
Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the crockpot, making sure to coat them well with all the delicious ingredients.
5. Cook:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and allow it to cook. You can choose to set it on low for about 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken is done when it is fully cooked through and tender.
6. Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the crockpot and place it on a serving dish. You can whisk the sauce if desired to make it smooth and even more enjoyable. Pour the sauce generously over the chicken and garnish with fresh parsley for that nice touch.
7. Enjoy:
This creamy, tasty chicken dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a side of your favorite vegetables. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure to adjust your cooking time. If using frozen, cook on high for 3-4 hours instead of low for 4-6 hours. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! You can use half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free option. If you want a lighter version, rich yogurt or sour cream can also work; just add them towards the end of cooking to prevent curdling.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze, ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Can I Serve with Marry Me Chicken?
This dish is delicious over pasta or rice, which absorbs the rich sauce beautifully. You could also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal!
