Irresistible Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe for Date Night

Tucked away in my recipe collection, this crock pot marry me chicken has sparked countless dinner conversations.

Whispers of its magical flavor spread quickly among my closest friends.

Tender chicken breasts nestle in a creamy, herb-infused sauce that melts hearts effortlessly.

Someone once told me this dish could convince anyone to say yes to anything.

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating an unforgettable meal experience.

Slow cooking ensures every bite is packed with rich, comforting flavors that feel like a warm embrace.

You won’t believe how simple ingredients can create such an impressive dinner masterpiece.

How to Make Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Step 1: Prepare Chicken Seasoning

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Italian seasoning
• Smoked paprika

Thoroughly coat each chicken piece, ensuring every inch is covered with the magical spice mixture.

Pat the chicken completely dry before seasoning to help spices stick perfectly.

Step 2: Create Golden Exterior

Heat a skillet with olive oil over medium-high temperature.

Gently place chicken pieces into the hot pan.

Sizzle each side for 2-3 minutes until a gorgeous golden-brown crust develops.

This step isn’t mandatory but adds incredible depth of flavor.

Step 3: Build Flavor Foundation

Transfer seared chicken into the crock pot.

• Minced garlic
• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Red pepper flakes
• Chicken broth

Step 4: Transform Chicken

Cover crock pot and let magic happen.

Cook on low setting for 4-6 hours or high setting for 2-3 hours.

Chicken should become meltingly tender and infused with rich flavors.

Step 5: Create Luxurious Sauce

• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil
• Dried oregano

For extra thickness, create a quick cornstarch slurry.

Mix cornstarch with water and swirl into sauce.

Allow additional 15 minutes of cooking time.

Step 6: Present Your Masterpiece

Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top.

Dust with extra Parmesan cheese.

• Pasta
• Mashed potatoes
• Fluffy rice

Slow Cooking Tips for Marry Me Chicken Success

• Enhance Seasoning Depth: Mix dried herbs and spices before coating chicken to distribute flavors evenly and prevent clumping.
• Prevent Dry Chicken: Avoid overcooking by checking internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring juicy and tender meat every time.
• Boost Sauce Richness: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged for a more robust, authentic flavor profile.
• Control Sauce Consistency: Gradually add cornstarch slurry and stir continuously to achieve desired thickness without lumps.
• Customize Dietary Needs: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for dairy-free version or use Greek yogurt for lower-fat alternative.

Reheat and Store Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Properly

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Pack cooled chicken in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing excess air, and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying and maintain sauce consistency.
• Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly and prevent overcooking, until chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature.

Perfect Pairings for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

• Crisp, medium-bodied white wine complements the creamy, sun-dried tomato sauce with its bright acidity and subtle oak undertones.
• Tender green spears with a light char create a fresh, vibrant side that balances the rich, savory chicken dish.
• Herb-infused Italian flatbread provides the perfect vehicle for soaking up the luxurious sauce, adding delightful texture and flavor.
• Light, nutty quinoa studded with fresh herbs offers a protein-packed, nutritious base that enhances the chicken's Mediterranean-inspired profile.

Recipe Variations for Marry Me Chicken

• Dairy-Free Delight: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a similar cheesy flavor.
• Vegetarian Transformation: Swap chicken with firm tofu or cauliflower steaks. Adjust cooking time to prevent overcooking and maintain a tender texture.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the pasta and serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Use a thickener like xanthan gum instead of cornstarch to reduce carbohydrates.
• Spicy Herb Variation: Add extra red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat. Include fresh rosemary and thyme to enhance the herbal profile of the dish.

Common Questions About Marry Me Chicken in a Crock Pot

• How do I prevent the chicken from getting tough in the slow cooker?

Use chicken breasts or thighs and avoid overcooking. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F. The low and slow cooking method helps keep the meat tender and juicy.

• Can I make this recipe without sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes, you can substitute with fresh cherry tomatoes or simply omit them. The recipe will still taste delicious with the other seasonings and herbs.

• Is this recipe spicy?

The red pepper flakes add a mild heat, but you can adjust or remove them based on your spice preference. The dish is generally considered mildly seasoned and not overly spicy.

• Do I have to sear the chicken before slow cooking?

Searing is optional but recommended. It helps develop deeper flavor and creates a golden-brown exterior. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and still have a tasty meal.

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken That Wins Hearts

• This crock pot chicken recipe transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal with minimal hands-on preparation.
• Perfect for home cooks of all levels, the recipe offers foolproof instructions that guarantee delicious results without complex techniques.
• Slow cooker method allows busy home chefs to create a gourmet-style dinner with just 10 minutes of prep and hands-off cooking time.
• Adaptable to multiple side dishes like pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice, making it an ideal meal for diverse family preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

• Chicken Breasts: The star of the dish, providing a tender and juicy base for the flavorful sauce.

• Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Italian Seasoning, Smoked Paprika: A blend of spices that creates a deep, aromatic flavor profile for the chicken.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a subtle heat and complexity to the dish.

• Olive Oil: Helps sear the chicken and adds a rich, smooth taste.
• Chicken Broth: Provides moisture and enhances the overall savory flavor.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a luxurious, creamy sauce that coats the chicken.

• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Brings a tangy, concentrated tomato flavor to the dish.
• Garlic: Adds a classic, aromatic depth to the recipe.
• Parmesan Cheese: Contributes a salty, nutty taste and helps thicken the sauce.

• Fresh Basil: Offers a bright, fresh element to the final dish.
• Oregano: Provides an earthy, slightly peppery note.

• Cornstarch: Helps create a thicker, more luxurious sauce consistency.
• Water: Used to mix with cornstarch for thickening.

• Pasta, Mashed Potatoes, Rice: Ideal base options for serving the chicken and sauce.

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

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4.6 from 38 reviews

• Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Marry Me Chicken offers a creamy, irresistible blend of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan in a luscious sauce. Slow-cooker magic delivers a romantic dinner that will make hearts flutter and taste buds sing.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 6 chicken thighs)

Seasonings and Spices:

• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Sauce and Additional Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped, drained if packed in oil)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for thickening, optional)
• ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
• Extra grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Prepare the poultry by thoroughly patting it dry and coating with a robust blend of aromatic seasonings, creating a flavorful exterior that will intensify during cooking.
2. Create a golden sear on the chicken using a skillet with sizzling olive oil, developing a rich caramelized crust that locks in moisture and enhances the overall taste profile.
3. Transfer the seared chicken into the slow cooker, carefully layering with pungent minced garlic, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of fiery red pepper flakes to build complex flavor dimensions.
4. Pour chicken broth around the meat, ensuring the liquid provides moisture and helps tenderize the protein during the slow cooking process.
5. Allow the crock pot to work its magic, gently transforming the chicken through low and slow cooking for several hours until the meat becomes incredibly tender and easily pulls apart.
6. Elevate the dish’s richness by stirring in velvety heavy cream, creating a luxurious sauce that coats the chicken with decadent smoothness.
7. Incorporate aged Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and aromatic oregano to introduce layers of herbaceous and umami notes that complement the creamy base.
8. For those desiring a more substantial sauce, create a quick cornstarch slurry to thicken the liquid, allowing it to simmer and develop a more robust consistency.
9. Plate the chicken over a bed of pasta, creamy mashed potatoes, or fluffy rice, ensuring each serving is generously topped with the sumptuous sauce.
10. Finish by scattering fresh basil leaves and an additional sprinkle of Parmesan, adding a vibrant garnish that brings freshness and visual appeal to the dish.

Notes

• Ensure chicken is completely dry before seasoning to achieve a perfect golden-brown sear and lock in maximum flavor.
• Customize spice levels by adjusting red pepper flakes for mild or more intense heat preferences.
• Mix different protein options like chicken thighs or turkey breasts for varied textures while maintaining the recipe’s core flavor profile.
• Create a lighter version by substituting heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk for lower-calorie, dairy-free alternatives.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 40 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 36 g
• Cholesterol: 150 mg