Cooking is often about creating memorable experiences, and there’s one dish that never fails to impress friends and family: Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken. This creamy, savory meal features tender chicken breasts enveloped in a rich sauce bursting with flavor. Picture this: a busy weeknight when you want to serve something hearty but don’t have hours to spare in the kitchen. That’s when this slow cooker recipe shines. What makes it particularly special? It packs a punch with its blend of sundried tomatoes, Italian herbs, and a luscious creaminess that might just have everyone at the table asking for seconds—and possibly more!
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary hug, perfect for cozy nights in or family gatherings. The simplicity of preparing this dish in the slow cooker makes it stress-free, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners when the whole family is home. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and uses common ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. When topped with fresh basil, it transforms into a restaurant-worthy dish that’s sure to impress.
“A friend made this recipe for dinner, and I couldn’t believe how easy it was. The flavors were incredible! It felt like a special occasion meal.” – A satisfied home cook.
The cooking process explained
Getting started with Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is as simple as it gets. Here’s how it unfolds: you’ll layer the chicken in the slow cooker, whip up a quick sauce with sundried tomatoes and cream, and let everything simmer together while you go about your day. This method not only melds the flavors beautifully but also ensures that the chicken stays moist and tender.
What’s more, because this dish cooks gently in its juices, you don’t have to worry about overcooking. Just set it and forget it—how easy can it be?
What you’ll need
Here’s the ingredient list so that you can gather everything up before diving into the cooking:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup sundried tomatoes in olive oil, drained and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Feel free to swap out the heavy cream for a lighter option like Greek yogurt for a healthier version, or use vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist!
Directions to follow
- Start by placing the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the drained and chopped sundried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour this sauce over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring they’re well coated.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is incredibly tender.
- Once done, serve the chicken along with the savory sauce over a bed of pasta, rice, or creamy mashed potatoes.
- If you like, garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh basil for an enhanced flavor and pretty presentation.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken, the options are endless. For a comforting meal, pair it with buttered pasta, fluffy rice, or even homemade mashed potatoes to soak up that delicious sauce. Consider adding a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness. Drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the plate for an elevated touch and a pop of flavor.
How to store & freeze
To keep your leftovers fresh, let the chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate and enjoy within 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Just bear in mind to use freezer-safe containers, and remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. For safety and quality, always ensure the leftovers are heated through to 165°F before serving.
Tricks for success
Here are some tips to elevate your cooking experience. First, searing the chicken breasts for a few minutes before adding them to the slow cooker can enhance the flavor, although it’s not strictly necessary. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce mixture—it adds a lovely depth. If you want to make it a one-pot meal, toss in some spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition and texture!
Creative twists
Don’t be afraid to get creative! You can swap out the sundried tomatoes for cherry tomatoes for a fresher take or spice it up with a bit of red pepper flakes. If you’re looking for a lighter option, substitute half the cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk. For a different profile, try adding a splash of lemon juice or fresh lemon zest right before serving to brighten the dish up.
Your questions answered
How long does this dish take to cook?
Typically, it takes 4-6 hours on low in the slow cooker.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can, but ensure they are fully thawed before cooking for even cooking.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Greek yogurt, coconut cream, or a non-dairy cream can work beautifully if you’re looking for lighter alternatives.
Can I make this dish in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! You can cook it for about 10-12 minutes on high pressure, but double-check your model’s guidelines for specifics.
Whether you’re aiming to impress or simply enjoy a delicious meal at home, Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a one-way ticket to flavor town!
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Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A creamy, savory dish featuring tender chicken breasts in a rich sauce with sundried tomatoes and Italian herbs, cooked effortlessly in a slow cooker.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup sundried tomatoes in olive oil, drained and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the drained and chopped sundried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour this sauce over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring they’re well coated.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is incredibly tender.
- Once done, serve the chicken along with the savory sauce over a bed of pasta, rice, or creamy mashed potatoes.
- If desired, garnish each serving with fresh basil.
Notes
Try searing the chicken for additional flavor before cooking. You can also substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian