Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken with a creamy sauce, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering, this recipe will surely impress with its rich flavors and ease of preparation. With minimal effort, you can create a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan creates an irresistible sauce.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside your favorite vegetables to fit any meal plan.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time for quick weeknight dinners or impressive lunch leftovers.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to wow your guests and leave them raving about the taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker (crockpot)
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker (crockpot): This tool allows you to cook the chicken slowly, resulting in tender meat infused with flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients efficiently before adding them to the crockpot.
• Whisk: An essential tool to ensure all your sauce ingredients blend seamlessly together.

Ingredients

To prepare the delicious Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe, gather the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides and set aside.

Step 2: Create the Sauce

In a mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together the chicken broth and cornstarch until smooth.
2. Add heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Whisk until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Crockpot

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring that all pieces are fully coated.

Step 4: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Sprinkle chopped sun-dried tomatoes over the top of the chicken and sauce mixture.

Step 5: Cook

Set your crockpot to low and cook for about 4 hours or high for approximately 2 hours until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender.

Step 6: Finish with Butter

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add butter to the crockpot. Stir it into the sauce as it melts to enrich the flavor even more.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley if desired. Serve your delicious Crockpot Marry Me Chicken with a generous spoonful of creamy sauce on top!

How to Serve Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to complement the flavors of this creamy chicken dish.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken and sauce over fluffy white or brown rice for a comforting meal that soaks up all the delicious sauce.

With Pasta

• Pair with your favorite pasta, such as fettuccine or penne, to create a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

On a Salad

• Slice the chicken and serve it atop a fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a healthier option.

In Sandwiches

• Shred the cooked chicken and serve it in crusty bread or rolls, topped with extra sauce for a delicious sandwich.

With Crusty Bread

• Offer slices of crusty bread on the side to help soak up the creamy sauce, making every bite delightful.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top each serving with freshly chopped basil or parsley for an added burst of freshness and color.

How to Perfect Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

To ensure your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Quality Chicken: Choose fresh boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best texture and flavor. Frozen chicken may result in uneven cooking.
• Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to tweak the seasonings based on your preference. Additional garlic or herbs can enhance the flavor.
• Check Cooking Times: Cooking times may vary by crockpot model. Always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Let It Rest: Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain moisture and flavor.
• Make Extra Sauce: If you love sauce, consider doubling the sauce ingredients to have more to enjoy over rice or pasta.
• Garnish Creatively: Experiment with different garnishes like grated cheese or even nuts for added texture and flavor contrast.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

When planning your meal, consider these delicious side dishes that pair wonderfully with Crockpot Marry Me Chicken:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make an excellent base for soaking up the savory sauce.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing out the richness of the chicken dish.
3. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that provides a light and fluffy base to complement the creamy chicken.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds depth and flavor to your meal.
5. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad packed with herbs and veggies provides a healthy contrast to the creamy chicken.
6. Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach offers a nutritious green option that pairs nicely with the rich flavors of the dish.
7. Couscous: Fluffy couscous is easy to prepare and makes a great side that absorbs all those delicious juices from the chicken.
8. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob brings a touch of sweetness that complements savory dishes beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can make your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe even better. Here are some common errors to watch out for.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Stick to the recommended cooking times for juicy results.
• Skipping Seasoning: Failing to season your chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always add salt and pepper for a tasty dish.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor-quality ingredients can affect the overall taste. Choose fresh, high-quality chicken and flavorful sun-dried tomatoes.
• Not Whisking the Sauce Properly: If your sauce isn’t well-mixed, it may clump up. Take time to whisk the broth and cornstarch thoroughly before adding other ingredients.
• Ignoring Garnishes: Skipping fresh basil or parsley removes a burst of flavor. Don’t forget these simple garnishes; they elevate the dish visually and tastefully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in a covered dish until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Heat in short increments, stirring between each, until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe.

What is Crockpot Marry Me Chicken?

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a slow-cooked dish featuring tender chicken breasts in a creamy sauce with garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. It’s perfect for any occasion!

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey, beef, or lamb based on your preference.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. Adjust spices according to your taste as well.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe makes great leftovers and can be easily portioned for meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

The Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it based on what you have at home or your personal preferences. Give it a try, and impress your family or guests with minimal effort!