If you’re looking for a dish that’s bound to impress, Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is the answer! This creamy, flavorful chicken recipe is a surefire hit whether you’re cooking for a romantic dinner or serving it up for a family meal. The name suggests this meal is so irresistible, it could lead to a proposal! While the story behind the name might be lighthearted, the taste is seriously delicious. The combination of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, a rich cream sauce, and herbs creates a comforting, indulgent meal with minimal effort thanks to the crock pot. Let’s dive into the full recipe, shall we?
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a slight kick)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Fresh basil (optional for garnish)
Optional:
- 1/2 cup spinach or kale (for extra greens)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on both sides for about 3-4 minutes each until golden brown. This adds a lovely color and extra flavor to your dish. Don’t worry about cooking the chicken all the way through at this stage—it will finish cooking in the crock pot.
Step 2: Prepare the Crock Pot
Once your chicken is seared, place the breasts into the bottom of your crock pot. In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Add the Sauce and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken in the crock pot, making sure the breasts are covered in sauce. Scatter the sun-dried tomatoes on top. These tomatoes add a slightly sweet and tangy flavor that balances the richness of the sauce.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Set your crock pot to low and cook for 3-4 hours, or set it to high and cook for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be tender and cooked through, with an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Final Touches
Once the chicken is done, you can thicken the sauce if needed. Simply transfer a bit of the sauce to a small pan, add a slurry of cornstarch and water, and heat until thickened. Return this to the crock pot and stir to combine. Add any optional spinach or kale at this stage and allow it to wilt into the sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Before serving, garnish your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken with freshly chopped parsley and basil. The fresh herbs brighten up the dish and add a pop of color. Serve this creamy chicken dish over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice to soak up all that delicious sauce.
Cooking Tips and Tricks:
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier option. Keep in mind that dark meat might take a bit longer to cook.
- Substitutions: If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to throw in vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or artichokes for added nutrients and flavor.
- Storing leftovers: Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, so add a splash of chicken broth when reheating.
- Make it spicy: For those who like a kick, consider increasing the red pepper flakes or adding a dash of hot sauce to the creamy mixture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
Flavor Profile:
This Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken has a luxurious, creamy texture balanced by the tangy bite of sun-dried tomatoes. The combination of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and Italian herbs brings an irresistible depth of flavor, while the red pepper flakes add just the right amount of heat. It’s a comforting, savory dish that pairs well with starchy sides like pasta or potatoes, making it perfect for a cozy evening.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this chicken dish over your favorite starch to soak up the sauce. Try it with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Buttery egg noodles
- Steamed white or brown rice
- Freshly baked crusty bread
You can also add a simple side salad or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to balance the richness of the dish.
Wine Pairing:
This rich and creamy chicken dish pairs beautifully with a crisp Chardonnay or a fruity Pinot Grigio. The acidity in these wines cuts through the richness of the cream sauce, creating a balanced and enjoyable meal.
Seasonal Suggestions:
Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is ideal for cooler months when you’re craving comfort food, but it’s also light enough to serve year-round. In summer, consider serving it alongside a crisp garden salad or grilled vegetables. In winter, pair it with hearty sides like mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables.
