Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Flavorful and Easy Recipe
**Introduction**
Tender, juicy chicken bathed in a luxuriously creamy, sun-drenched sauce bursting with the flavors of garlic, herbs, and sweet sundried tomatoes—this is Crockpot Marry Me Chicken. The name is no exaggeration; this dish is so profoundly delicious and satisfying it’s rumored to have sparked proposals. It’s a quintessential comfort food meal that feels indulgent and gourmet, yet its soul lies in the incredible simplicity of your slow cooker. The magic happens over low and slow heat, which melds the robust flavors together while transforming humble chicken breasts into a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece. It’s the perfect solution for a hectic weeknight where you crave something special without the effort, or for a relaxed weekend dinner that impresses with minimal fuss.
**Perfect for:**
Busy Weeknight Dinners
Meal Prep for Lunches
Date Night at Home
Potlucks and Gatherings
Comfort Food Cravings
**Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe**
**Incredibly Flavorful:** The sauce is a powerhouse of umami and richness. Sundried tomatoes provide a sweet, tangy depth, while garlic, basil, and oregano create an aromatic foundation. A touch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle background warmth, and the Parmesan cheese melts into the sauce, making it velvety and savory.
**Effortless Slow Cooker Meal:** This is a true “set it and forget it” recipe. After a few minutes of quick prep, the slow cooker does all the work. You can go about your day while your kitchen fills with an incredible aroma, returning to a perfectly cooked, restaurant-quality meal.
**Versatile & Customizable:** While perfect as is, this recipe is a fantastic canvas. You can easily swap the protein, adjust the vegetable content, or alter the sauce’s creaminess to suit your taste and what you have on hand, making it a go-to recipe you’ll never tire of.
**Impressive with Minimal Effort:** The final result looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The vibrant, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked chicken are guaranteed to draw compliments from family and guests, making it an excellent choice for both casual and special occasions.
**Preparation and Cooking Time**
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 4 hours
Servings: 6 servings
**Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Estimate):**
**Calories:** 380-420 kcal
**Protein:** 35g
**Carbohydrates:** 10g
**Fat:** 22g
**Fiber:** 2g
**Sugar:** 6g
**Nutritional Disclaimer**
aileen recipes is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is only an estimate. We recommend running the ingredients through an online nutritional calculator if you need to verify any information.
**Ingredients**
* 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon salt
* ½ teaspoon black pepper
* 1 cup chicken broth
* ½ cup heavy cream
* ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 (8.5-ounce) jar sundried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped (reserve 1 tablespoon of the oil)
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried basil
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
* ½ cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
**Step-by-Step Instructions**
1. **Season the Chicken:** Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt and black pepper.
2. **Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended):** Heat the olive oil and the reserved tablespoon of sundried tomato oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, until a golden-brown crust forms. This step is optional but highly recommended for building a deeper flavor.
3. **Combine in Crockpot:** Transfer the seared chicken breasts to the insert of your slow cooker. Scatter the chopped sundried tomatoes and minced garlic over and around the chicken.
4. **Create the Sauce:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, heavy cream, grated Parmesan, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes.
5. **Cook:** Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and cook on **LOW for 4-5 hours** or on **HIGH for 2-3 hours**, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
6. **Shred or Serve Whole:** Once cooked, you can serve the chicken breasts whole, or use two forks to shred them directly in the slow cooker, allowing them to soak up more of the sauce.
7. **Garnish and Serve:** Stir in the fresh chopped basil just before serving.
**How to Serve Crockpot Marry Me Chicken**
**Over Pasta or Polenta:** Serve the chicken and its luxurious sauce over a bed of fettuccine, pappardelle, or creamy Parmesan polenta to soak up every last drop.
**With Crusty Bread:** A simple, warm loaf of crusty Italian bread or baguette is perfect for dipping into the flavorful sauce.
**Alongside a Fresh Salad:** Balance the richness of the dish with a light, crisp arugula salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette.
**With a Vegetable Side:** Steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or broccoli make excellent and healthy accompaniments.
**Additional Tips for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken**
* For the most tender chicken, avoid overcooking. Check for doneness at the earliest time in the range. The chicken should be 165°F (74°C) internally.
* If you prefer a thicker sauce, create a quick slurry by mixing one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Stir this into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
* For a richer flavor, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. You may need to increase the cooking time by about 30-60 minutes on low.
* Do not use pre-grated Parmesan cheese in a tub, as it contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly. Freshly grated is best.
**Recipe Variations of Crockpot Marry Me Chicken**
**Creamy Spinach Version:** About 30 minutes before the end of cooking, stir in 2-3 large handfuls of fresh spinach and allow it to wilt into the sauce.
**Spicy Arrabbiata Version:** Increase the red pepper flakes to 1 teaspoon and add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste for a spicier, more tomato-forward sauce.
**Dairy-Free Version:** Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat canned coconut milk and use a dairy-free Parmesan cheese alternative.
**Freezing and Storage for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken**
**Storage:** Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
**Freezing:** This dish freezes well for up to 3 months. Store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The cream-based sauce may separate slightly upon thawing, but a good stir will typically bring it back together.
**FAQ Section about Crockpot Marry Me Chicken**
**Can I make this recipe with frozen chicken?**
It is not recommended to use frozen chicken in a slow cooker, as it can spend too long in the “danger zone” temperature where bacteria grow rapidly. For food safety, always use thawed chicken.
**Why is my sauce watery?**
Sauces in the slow cooker often have more liquid because the lid prevents evaporation. To thicken it, use the cornstarch slurry method described in the tips section, or let the dish cook for the last 30 minutes with the lid off.
**Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?**
You can, but the sauce will be noticeably less rich and thick. Heavy cream is recommended for its stability and luxurious texture.
**Conclusion of Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe**
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s a reliable path to a memorable, flavor-packed meal that effortlessly elevates any day. The harmonious blend of creamy Parmesan, sweet sundried tomatoes, and fragrant herbs creates a sauce that is truly irresistible, while the slow cooker guarantees a stress-free cooking experience. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, preparing meals for the week, or crafting a simple yet romantic dinner, this dish delivers on every promise of flavor and ease. It’s a recipe destined to become a cherished favorite in your culinary collection, earning its legendary name with every delicious bite.