This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a delightful mix of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and sun-dried tomatoes. It’s a dish so tasty, it might just get you a proposal! 💖
Honestly, who wouldn’t love a meal that simmers all day while you relax? Just toss everything in your slow cooker and let it do the magic. Perfect for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep the dish light and cook well in the crockpot. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using chicken thighs, which remain juicy and tender.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a wonderful tangy flavor. If you’re out of sun-dried tomatoes, you can use chopped fresh tomatoes. Just be aware that you might need to add a little more seasoning for that same depth of flavor.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creaminess. If you’d like a lighter option, you could use half-and-half or substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for a richer taste. If you’re in a pinch, Pecorino Romano works nicely, or even a non-dairy cheese for a dairy-free version.
What’s the Best Way to Sear Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Searing the chicken is an important step to lock in flavor. Here are my tips:
- Heat your skillet over medium-high and add a few drops of olive oil. The skillet should be hot enough that the oil shimmers.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper right before placing them in the skillet for that initial crunch.
- Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Don’t overcrowd the pan; this ensures even cooking. If you have to cook in batches, do it!
After searing, remove the chicken and let it rest. This helps keep it juicy before adding it to the crockpot.
How to Make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil for searing
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (not packed in oil)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crockpot Marry Me Chicken will take about 15 minutes of prep time and then you can relax while it cooks! You’ll need to slow cook it for about 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. In a skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for now.
2. Make the Sauce:
Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Next, throw in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning, stirring for another minute. Now, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing everything to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s nicely melted and combined.
3. Slow Cook:
Pour a third of that delicious sauce into the bottom of your crockpot. Place the seared chicken breasts on top. Then, pour the remaining sauce over the chicken, making sure it’s covered well!
4. Cook:
Now it’s time to cook! Cover the crockpot and let it work its magic. You can cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Serve:
Once the cooking time is up, sprinkle the chicken with fresh parsley to make it pretty. Serve your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken with the creamy sauce over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes – whatever you like! Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Fresh Chicken Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh chicken is preferred for this recipe as it can be seared more easily than frozen chicken. If you do happen to have frozen chicken, make sure it’s completely thawed before starting. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method: seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with a mix of half-and-half and a tablespoon of flour for thickness. Alternatively, use coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Keep in mind that these substitutes may alter the flavor slightly, so adjust seasoning if needed!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Just chop them and add them to the crockpot along with the chicken and sauce. They’ll cook down wonderfully and add extra flavor and nutrition to your dish!
