This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, dreamy dish that just might get you a proposal! Tender chicken cooked in a rich sauce of sun-dried tomatoes and herbs makes it unforgettable.
Honestly, who can resist that delicious flavor? I like to serve it over pasta or rice to soak up every bit of sauce. Just be prepared for compliments and maybe even a ring! 💍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. You can substitute with thighs if you prefer a richer flavor, or even use tofu for a vegetarian option!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These give a sweet and tangy taste. If you can’t find them in oil, you can use dehydrated ones; just soak them in warm water first. Fresh tomatoes aren’t quite the same, but they can work in a pinch.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just be careful with the amounts, as they may alter the sauce’s consistency.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a wonderful salty and nutty flavor. Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan twist) can be good substitutes!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken in a crockpot is simple, but timing and prep are key. If you sear the chicken first, it locks in juices and adds flavor. This step can be skipped, but I strongly recommend it!
- Heat your skillet to medium-high and add olive oil.
- Season your chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- After searing, transfer the chicken to the crockpot and add your other ingredients. Follow the cooking times provided for your preferred softness.
How to Make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (in oil, drained)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare the chicken and get everything into the crockpot. Then, you’ll need to let it cook for 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. Total time: Around 4 hours and 15 minutes on low or 2 hours and 15 minutes on high, but most of that time is just letting the crockpot do its magic!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. If you want to add more flavor, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts in the hot skillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step adds a nice flavor, but it’s totally optional!
2. Combine Ingredients in Crockpot:
Now it’s time to put everything in the crockpot. Lay the seared chicken breasts at the bottom. Top them with the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, pouring in the heavy cream, and sprinkling the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Yum!
3. Cook:
Cover the crockpot and let it cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. You want the chicken to be cooked through and wonderfully tender. When it’s ready, it should easily shred with a fork!
4. Thicken Sauce (if needed):
If you find that the sauce is a bit too thin for your liking, simply take out the chicken once it’s cooked. Turn the crockpot to high and stir the sauce for an additional 15-20 minutes until it thickens up a bit. You want it to be creamy and delightful!
5. Serve:
Before serving, garnish the dish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if you’d like a little brightness to it. Serve this delicious chicken over pasta, rice, or with a side of veggies to soak up that amazing sauce. Enjoy your flavorful and creamy Crockpot Marry Me Chicken!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work great in this recipe. They will add a bit more richness and stay tender during the cooking process. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed, as thighs may take a bit longer to become fully tender.
What if I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No problem! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter (1 cup milk + 2 tablespoons melted butter). Keep in mind that the sauce may be a bit lighter, but it’ll still be delicious.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Add them to the crockpot along with the other ingredients. Just be mindful that they will increase the overall cooking time a bit.
