Name: Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 10 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: Chicken Breasts (4, skin on or skinless): Provides lean protein that becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.; Italian Seasoning (2 tsp): A blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme that enhances the overall flavor.; Unsalted Butter (1 tbsp): Adds richness and helps brown the chicken for extra flavor.; Olive Oil (1 tsp, optional): Used in combination with butter for browning the chicken.; Apple cider vinegar (½ cup each): Adds acidity and depth to the sauce. The broth is a great substitute if you prefer to avoid alcohol.; Sun-Dried Tomatoes (4 tbsp, diced): Contribute a sweet and tangy flavor that balances the creaminess of the sauce.; Sweet Paprika (1 tsp): Adds a mild, sweet heat and a beautiful color to the dish.; Garlic Granules (1 tsp): Infuses the sauce with a subtle garlic flavor.; Sour Cream or Heavy Cream (1 cup): Creates a creamy, velvety sauce that ties all the flavors together.; Cornstarch (1 tbsp, diluted in 2 tbsp cold water, optional): Helps thicken the sauce for a richer texture.; Grated Parmesan Cheese (2-3 tbsp): Adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the cream sauce.; Flat Leaf Parsley or Fresh Basil (2 tbsp, chopped): Adds freshness and a pop of color to the finished dish.; Chicken Thighs: Use instead of breasts for a richer flavor and juicier texture.; Greek Yogurt: Swap out sour cream for Greek yogurt to reduce fat content while keeping the creaminess.; Vegetable Broth: A good alternative to chicken broth for a vegetarian twist, if you skip the chicken and use plant-based protein instead.

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a rich, flavorful dish that has gained popularity for its tender chicken and creamy sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply looking for a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. The slow-cooked chicken absorbs all the flavors from the sun-dried tomatoes, Italian herbs, and a velvety cream sauce, making it a dish that’s hard to resist.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

The Appeal of Marry Me Chicken

Marry Me Chicken has a name that speaks for itself. Legend has it that this dish is so delicious that it could elicit a marriage proposal. While we can’t guarantee that outcome, we can assure you that this recipe is a delightful combination of tender chicken and a savory, creamy sauce. The simplicity of the ingredients, paired with the depth of flavor, makes it a dish that everyone will love.

Perfect for Busy Weeknights

One of the best things about this Crock Pot version of Marry Me Chicken is that it’s perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can have a gourmet-style meal with very little effort. Just set it and forget it, and in a few hours, you’ll have a dish that’s ready to serve.

Ingredients Overview

Key Ingredients and Their Benefits

Chicken Breasts (4, skin on or skinless): Provides lean protein that becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.
Italian Seasoning (2 tsp): A blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme that enhances the overall flavor.
Unsalted Butter (1 tbsp): Adds richness and helps brown the chicken for extra flavor.
Olive Oil (1 tsp, optional): Used in combination with butter for browning the chicken.
Apple cider vinegar (½ cup each): Adds acidity and depth to the sauce. The broth is a great substitute if you prefer to avoid alcohol.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes (4 tbsp, diced): Contribute a sweet and tangy flavor that balances the creaminess of the sauce.
Sweet Paprika (1 tsp): Adds a mild, sweet heat and a beautiful color to the dish.
Garlic Granules (1 tsp): Infuses the sauce with a subtle garlic flavor.
Sour Cream or Heavy Cream (1 cup): Creates a creamy, velvety sauce that ties all the flavors together.
Cornstarch (1 tbsp, diluted in 2 tbsp cold water, optional): Helps thicken the sauce for a richer texture.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (2-3 tbsp): Adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the cream sauce.
Flat Leaf Parsley or Fresh Basil (2 tbsp, chopped): Adds freshness and a pop of color to the finished dish.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

If you’re looking to customize this dish, here are some easy substitutions:

Chicken Thighs: Use instead of breasts for a richer flavor and juicier texture.
Greek Yogurt: Swap out sour cream for Greek yogurt to reduce fat content while keeping the creaminess.
Vegetable Broth: A good alternative to chicken broth for a vegetarian twist, if you skip the chicken and use plant-based protein instead.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make this Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:

Crock Pot or Slow Cooker: Essential for cooking the chicken slowly and evenly.
Large Pan: For browning the chicken before transferring it to the slow cooker.
Tongs: To flip the chicken and handle it easily during preparation.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements of ingredients.
Mixing Bowl: To prepare the cornstarch slurry if you choose to thicken the sauce.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Preparing the Chicken Breasts

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This simple seasoning blend will lay the foundation for the dish’s flavor. Make sure to rub the spices evenly over each piece of chicken.

Sautéing for Extra Flavor

Heat the butter and olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. If your slow cooker has a browning function, you can use it directly. Place the chicken breasts, skin-side down, in the pan and cook until golden brown. This step adds depth to the flavor by searing the chicken, which locks in the juices and gives the dish a richer taste.

Slow Cooking the Chicken

Once the chicken is browned, transfer it to your slow cooker (if you didn’t brown it in the slow cooker). Pour in the Apple cider vinegar and water mixture or chicken broth. Add the diced sun-dried tomatoes, sweet paprika, garlic granules, and chicken bouillon. Cover the slow cooker and set it to the LOW setting. Cook the chicken for 90 minutes to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Thickening the Sauce

For a thicker sauce, you can prepare a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this mixture into the sauce about 10 minutes before the cooking time is up. The cornstarch needs to heat through to activate and thicken the sauce. If you’re using sour cream instead of heavy cream, you might want to skip this step, as sour cream already adds some thickness to the sauce.

Final Touches: Adding Cream and Parmesan

When the chicken is fully cooked, move it to one side of the slow cooker. Stir in the sour cream or heavy cream until fully incorporated into the sauce. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley or basil, stirring gently to combine. This final step creates a luxurious, creamy sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Chicken

One of the most common mistakes is overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry. To avoid this, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 165°F (75°C).

Not Seasoning Properly

Ensure that you season the chicken well before browning. The seasoning helps to enhance the flavor of the chicken and the overall dish. Also, taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing with Sides: Rice, Noodles, or Mashed Potatoes

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it over steamed rice, egg noodles, or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. Each of these options adds a different texture to the meal, allowing you to customize it to your preference.

Garnishing for Extra Flavor

For an added burst of flavor, garnish the finished dish with more fresh parsley or basil. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese can also elevate the dish, adding a salty, umami finish.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Best Practices for Storing

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken will keep well for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken is fully cooled before storing to prevent condensation, which can make the sauce watery.

Reheating Tips

To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating. If the sauce thickens too much during storage, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Time-Saving Tips

For a quicker preparation, you can brown the chicken and prepare the sauce the night before. In the morning, simply transfer everything to the slow cooker and start the cooking process. This way, you can come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal.

How to Adjust the Recipe for Dietary Needs

If you need to make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use coconut cream instead of sour cream or heavy cream. You can also replace the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free version or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. They are juicier and more forgiving during slow cooking, making them an excellent choice for this recipe.

Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them in the slow cooker the next day to heat through.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that will quickly become a family favorite. With its tender chicken and rich, creamy sauce, it’s perfect for both special occasions and busy weeknights. If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes like this one!