Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with rich flavors. The combination of sundried tomatoes and creamy sauce makes it unique and delicious. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for an easy, comforting meal to impress family and friends. With minimal effort, you can create a meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare. Using a slow cooker allows the chicken to absorb all the flavors, making every bite a treat. Whether you serve it over pasta, rice, or potatoes, this dish is sure to impress.
Why Make This Recipe
Why should you consider making Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken? This recipe is simple and requires only a few ingredients that you might already have at home. The slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing you to go about your day while your dinner cooks to perfection. It is perfect for busy weeknights when you do not want to spend too much time in the kitchen.
Moreover, it is a crowd-pleaser. The creamy, rich sauce and tender chicken are sure to win over even the pickiest eaters. It makes a great dish for gatherings, special occasions, or any night when you want something delicious and easy. Plus, you can modify the recipe according to your taste, making it adaptable for various dietary restrictions.
How to Make Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Making Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is straightforward. Follow the simple steps below to create this delicious meal at home.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup sundried tomatoes in 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)
Directions
Place the Chicken: Begin by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure to spread them out evenly so that they cook properly.
Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped sundried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Ensure that all the ingredients are well combined. This sauce will create a rich and creamy flavor that will enhance the chicken.
Pour the Mixture: Pour your creamy mixture over the chicken breasts. Make sure that the chicken is completely covered with the sauce. This step is essential, as it allows the chicken to soak up all those flavorful juices.
Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The cooking time might vary based on your slow cooker, so it’s important to check if the chicken is tender when it’s done.
Shred the Chicken: After cooking, if you prefer, shred the chicken in the sauce. This step will help the chicken absorb even more of the delicious flavors. Simply use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Serve: You can serve the chicken over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. If you like, garnish with fresh basil for a touch of color and added flavor.
How to Serve Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Serving Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is easy and versatile. You can choose how you want to present this gorgeous dish. Here are some ideas:
Over Pasta: One of the most popular ways to serve this chicken is over a bed of spaghetti or fettuccine. The creamy sauce perfectly clings to the pasta, creating a delicious combination.
With Rice: For a hearty meal, serve the chicken and sauce over fluffy white or brown rice. The rice will soak up the creamy sauce, providing a filling option.
With Mashed Potatoes: Another favorite is to pair this dish with creamy mashed potatoes. The buttery potatoes complement the chicken and sauce beautifully.
On a Salad: For a lighter option, shred the chicken and serve it over a fresh salad. The creamy sauce can act as a dressing, adding flavor to your greens.
With Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. This simple addition makes the meal feel special.
How to Store Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Storing your leftover Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is easy. Here are some simple steps to follow:
Cool Down: Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before storing it. This prevents condensation in your storage container.
Use Airtight Containers: Place the leftover chicken in airtight containers. Make sure to include some of the sauce with the chicken for added flavor upon reheating.
Refrigerate: Store the containers in the refrigerator. The chicken will stay fresh for 3-4 days.
Freezing Option: If you want to store it for a longer time, you can freeze the chicken. Make sure to use freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. You can reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. Ensure it’s heated through before serving.
Tips to Make Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken comes out perfectly every time:
Use Fresh Ingredients: If possible, use fresh chicken and quality sundried tomatoes. This will enhance the flavor of the dish.
Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your preference. If you love garlic, add an extra teaspoon of garlic powder. If you enjoy more herbs, try adding oregano or thyme for additional flavor.
Don’t Skip the Garnish: Fresh basil adds a bright flavor and color to your dish. Make sure to include it as a garnish right before serving.
Add Vegetables: For a more balanced meal, feel free to add vegetables. Chopped spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes can be great additions to the slow cooker.
Thicken the Sauce: If you like a thicker sauce, remove some liquid from the slow cooker after cooking. Then, mix a bit of cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce while heating it on the stove.
Variation
There are several ways you can alter the basic Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken recipe to suit your taste:
Cheesy Version: You can add 1 cup of shredded cheese, like mozzarella or Parmesan, to the sauce. This addition will create a cheesy, gooey texture that is loved by many.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy spicy food, consider adding red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the sauce. This will give the dish an exciting heat.
Different Meats: While this recipe is designed for chicken breasts, you can use chicken thighs or even pork chops. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of meat used.
Dairy-Free Alternative: For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative instead of heavy cream. Make sure the other ingredients are also dairy-free.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, it is important to cook them on high for 4-5 hours instead of the usual cooking times to ensure they are fully cooked.
Can I make this dish without a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can also cook this recipe in a regular pot on the stove. Simply simmer on low heat for about 30-45 minutes until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Is Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken good for meal prep?
Yes, this dish is excellent for meal prep! It stores well in the refrigerator and can easily be reheated, making it a great choice for weekly lunches or dinners.
How spicy is the dish?
This dish is not inherently spicy, but you can adjust the spice level based on your taste. Adding red pepper flakes or spices can give it a delightful kick.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
Yes, adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can enhance both the flavor and nutritional value of the dish. Just add them when you put the chicken in the slow cooker.
Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is an easy and delicious recipe that can transform your mealtime experience. With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that will leave everyone asking for more. Enjoy cooking!
Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker, spreading them out evenly.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped sundried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are completely covered.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Check that the chicken is tender when done.
- Shred the chicken in the sauce using two forks, if desired.
- Serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. Optionally garnish with fresh basil.