This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is the perfect dish to impress! It’s a creamy, dreamy chicken dish cooked slowly with herbs and sun-dried tomatoes that melt in your mouth.
Honestly, who wouldn’t say “yes” to this meal? It’s super easy! Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it work its magic while you relax. Dinner’s ready when you are!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use chicken thighs, which add a bit more flavor and moisture.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a lovely tang to the dish. If you don’t have them on hand, roasted red peppers or even fresh cherry tomatoes can work in a pinch, but will give a different flavor profile.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is perfect for adding depth. If you need a substitute, Pecorino Romano can be used, or nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative that gives a cheesy flavor.
Italian Seasoning: This is a blend of herbs that enhances the dish. If you don’t have it, a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme can replace it effectively.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Searing in a Skillet?
Searing the chicken is a key step for flavor! It creates a nice crust that locks in juices and adds depth. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet—this helps to create that golden-brown crust.
- Use enough olive oil to coat the bottom of the skillet, which also prevents sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If you have large breasts, do them in batches if necessary.
- Let the chicken cook without moving it for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Remember, it’s okay if the chicken isn’t fully cooked in the skillet; it will finish cooking in the crockpot.
How to Make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then cooks for 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. It’s perfect for a busy day when you want to come home to a delicious meal without the fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This adds flavor right from the beginning!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step helps keep the juices in the chicken. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook these for about 1-2 minutes until they become fragrant. This will give the dish a lovely aroma and flavor.
4. Combine in the Crockpot:
Now, it’s time to bring it all together! In your crockpot, combine the seared chicken, the sautéed garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, along with the Italian seasoning. This is where the magic happens!
5. Add the Cream and Cheese:
Pour the heavy cream over the chicken in the crockpot, then sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. This will create a rich and creamy sauce as it cooks.
6. Cook:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken is ready when it is cooked through and tender, soaking in all those wonderful flavors.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is done cooking, serve it with the delicious sauce from the crockpot. Don’t forget to garnish with some fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best method is to transfer it to the fridge for a few hours or overnight. If you’re short on time, you can submerge it in cold water (in a sealed bag) for quick thawing. Do not cook frozen chicken directly in the crockpot as it can lead to uneven cooking.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a blend of cream and milk. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream works wonderfully, although it will add a slight coconut flavor to the dish. Just keep an eye on the consistency; it might be thinner with these substitutions!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stove, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened up, you might want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it.
What Should I Serve with Marry Me Chicken?
This dish pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious creamy sauce. For a lighter option, consider serving it over a bed of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad!
