Imagine walking into your kitchen after a long day and being greeted by the aroma of tender chicken simmering in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to grab a plate, sit down, and savor every bite. This Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken: A One-Pot Wonder is exactly that—a dish so flavorful and comforting, it might just win your heart (or someone else’s). With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s destined to become your new favorite dinner recipe.
Why Is It Called Marry Me Chicken?
The name “Marry Me Chicken” comes from its irresistible flavors that are said to be so good, they might prompt a marriage proposal! While it may just be a fun myth, the combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and savory sun-dried tomatoes is undeniably swoon-worthy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: With your slow cooker doing the heavy lifting, you can relax or tackle other tasks.
- One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes mean more time to enjoy the meal.
- Rich, Bold Flavors: Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic create a symphony of flavors.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with pasta, rice, or veggies for a complete meal.
Tools You’ll Need
Tool | Purpose |
---|---|
Slow cooker | For cooking the chicken low and slow. |
Mixing bowl | To whisk the sauce ingredients. |
Whisk | Ensures a smooth and creamy sauce. |
Tongs | For handling and placing the chicken. |
Measuring cups and spoons | For accurate ingredient measurements. |
Cutting board and knife | For chopping sun-dried tomatoes and herbs. |
Ingredients for Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken
Here’s everything you need to bring this recipe to life:
Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 4 | The star protein of the dish. |
Chicken broth | 1 cup | Creates a flavorful base for the sauce. |
Heavy cream | 1 cup | Adds richness and creaminess. |
Parmesan cheese (grated) | ½ cup | Enhances the savory flavor. |
Garlic (minced) | 1 tbsp | Adds depth and aroma. |
Dried oregano | 1 tsp | Infuses the dish with earthy flavor. |
Dried thyme | ½ tsp | Complements the oregano perfectly. |
Red pepper flakes (optional) | ¼ tsp | Adds a subtle kick of heat. |
Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped) | ½ cup | Provides a tangy, slightly sweet element. |
Butter | 2 tbsp | Rounds out the sauce’s richness. |
Salt and pepper | To taste | Balances and enhances the flavors. |
Fresh basil or parsley (optional) | For garnish | Adds a fresh, vibrant finish. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Set the chicken aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Create the Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Chicken broth
- Heavy cream
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Garlic
- Dried oregano
- Dried thyme
- Red pepper flakes (if using).
- Mix until smooth and well combined.
3. Assemble the Crockpot
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring the breasts are fully coated.
- Sprinkle the chopped sun-dried tomatoes evenly over the top.
4. Slow Cook the Chicken
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to:
- Low: 4 hours
- High: 2 hours
- The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is tender enough to shred or slice easily.
5. Add the Butter
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the butter to the slow cooker.
- Stir it into the sauce until melted and fully incorporated.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Transfer the chicken to a serving plate or leave it in the slow cooker to keep warm.
- Spoon the creamy sauce over the chicken, making sure to include the sun-dried tomatoes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Tip: Opt for the oil-packed variety for added richness, but drain them before chopping.
- Adjust the Heat: Add more red pepper flakes for a spicier kick or omit them for a milder dish.
- Make It Extra Creamy: Stir in an extra tablespoon of Parmesan cheese for added richness.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | ~400 |
Protein | 38g |
Total Fat | 24g |
Saturated Fat | 12g |
Carbohydrates | 6g |
Fiber | 1g |
Sodium | ~600mg |
FAQs About Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work perfectly and add extra flavor due to their higher fat content.
2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
4. Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken?
Yes! Let the chicken and sauce cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
5. What can I serve with Marry Me Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
6. Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Use the sauté function to sear the chicken and garlic, then cook on high pressure for 10 minutes with a quick release.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with large portobello mushrooms or cauliflower steaks.
- Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus during the last hour of cooking.
- Extra Cheesy: Stir in mozzarella cheese at the end for a gooey, melty finish.
- Herbaceous Twist: Add fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic boost.
Conclusion
This Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken: A One-Pot Wonder is the perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication. With its tender chicken, rich sauce, and bold flavors, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or a show-stopping recipe for date night, this dish has you covered.
So, what are you waiting for? Dust off your slow cooker, grab your ingredients, and get ready to fall in love with this creamy, dreamy chicken dish tonight!
PrintCreamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken: A One-Pot Wonder
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken is the ultimate comfort dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a luscious sauce of Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and cream. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Mix the Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using) until smooth.
- Assemble in the Slow Cooker
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of a slow cooker.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated.
- Sprinkle chopped sun-dried tomatoes evenly over the top.
- Cook the Chicken
- Cover and cook on Low for 4 hours or High for 2 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Add the Butter
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the butter until melted and incorporated into the sauce.
- Serve and Garnish
- Transfer the chicken to a serving plate or leave it in the slow cooker to keep warm.
- Spoon the creamy sauce over the chicken and garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
- Pair and Enjoy
- Serve with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (Low) or 2 hours (High)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American