Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a dish that promises tender chicken breasts enveloped in a rich and creamy sundried tomato sauce. This easy slow cooker recipe is perfect for various occasions, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a romantic evening at home. With its delightful flavors and simple preparation, it’s no wonder this meal is considered proposal-worthy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time, you can set it and forget it while your Crock Pot does the work.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sundried tomatoes and creamy sauce creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether you prefer pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, this chicken pairs beautifully with any side.
• Impressive Dish: Serve this at gatherings to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers make for fantastic lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into creating your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken, gather the necessary tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Skillet (if browning chicken)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: The heart of this recipe! It ensures even cooking and allows flavors to meld beautifully over low heat.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning the chicken, adding an extra layer of flavor before slow cooking.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements guarantee consistent results every time you make this dish.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

To create your delicious Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 4 chicken breasts, skin on or skinless
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper

For the Sauce

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp olive oil (can omit if preferred)
• ½ cup (120ml) white apple vinegar + ½ cup water OR 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
• 4 tbsp diced sun-dried tomatoes, drained
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp garlic granules
• 1 tsp chicken bouillon, if using apple vinegar

For Creaminess

• 1 cup (225g) sour cream or heavy cream
• 1 tbsp cornstarch diluted in 2 tbsp cold water, optional

For Garnish

• 2-3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp flat leaf parsley, or fresh basil, chopped

How to Make Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning evenly over both sides to impart flavor.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat the butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts skin-side down. Cook until golden brown on one side before flipping.

Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker

If you browned the chicken in a skillet, transfer it to your slow cooker now. Pour in the apple vinegar or chicken broth. Add paprika, garlic granules, and sun-dried tomatoes.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover your slow cooker and set it to LOW. Cook for 90 minutes to 2 hours until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Thicken Sauce (Optional)

If you want a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into your sauce ten minutes before cooking time ends.

Step 6: Add Creaminess

Once cooked, move the chicken to one side of the slow cooker. Stir in sour cream or heavy cream until fully incorporated. Mix in grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for added flavor.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your delicious Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes – whatever you desire! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Pasta

• Fettuccine: The creamy sauce clings perfectly to fettuccine noodles, creating a satisfying bite.
• Penne: Toss penne pasta with the chicken and sauce for a delicious one-pot meal.
• Spaghetti: Serve with spaghetti and add extra grated cheese for indulgence.

With Rice

• White Rice: Simple and fluffy white rice absorbs the rich sauce beautifully.
• Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.
• Risotto: Pairing with risotto makes this meal feel gourmet and comforting.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Classic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Infuse garlic for an extra layer of flavor that complements the chicken wonderfully.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

To ensure your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use boneless chicken breasts: This keeps the cooking time shorter and ensures even cooking throughout.
• Sear the chicken first: Browning the chicken enhances its flavor and creates a nice texture before slow cooking.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your preference for added depth of flavor.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the chicken to rest helps retain moisture, making each bite tender.
• Add veggies for nutrition: Stir in some spinach or bell peppers during the last 30 minutes of cooking for added color and nutrients.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A simple side that adds color and crunch; steam until just tender.
2. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce; toast slices with butter and garlic.
3. Caesar Salad: A fresh salad with crisp romaine and creamy dressing complements the richness of the chicken.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Season seasonal veggies like carrots and zucchini, then roast them until caramelized.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light, protein-packed salad mixed with herbs and lemon juice makes a refreshing contrast.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn offers sweetness that balances out the savory dish nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning – Failing to season your chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.

• Overcooking the chicken – Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) without overcooking.

• Not using enough liquid – A lack of broth or vinegar can result in a sauce that’s too thick or even burnt edges. Make sure to include enough liquid to keep everything moist.

• Adding cream too soon – If you add sour cream or heavy cream at the beginning, it may curdle. Stir it in towards the end of cooking for a smooth texture.

• Ignoring the optional cornstarch – If you prefer a thicker sauce, neglecting the cornstarch slurry can leave you with a runny consistency. Mix it in during the last minutes of cooking.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Place in freezer-safe bags or containers; it will last for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave – Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until heated thoroughly.

• Stovetop – In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water and reheat the chicken, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken:

What is Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken?

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a delicious slow-cooked chicken dish made with tender chicken breasts simmered in a creamy sundried tomato sauce.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can easily substitute turkey or even lean cuts of beef for this recipe while keeping the cooking time similar.

How do I customize my Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also adjust spices based on your preferences.

Is there an alternative for sour cream?

Yes! You can use Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative that still provides creaminess without sacrificing flavor.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, replace sour cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, adjusting quantities as needed for consistency.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is not only rich and flavorful but also versatile enough to suit any dinner table. Whether served over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, it’s bound to impress anyone who tries it. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices!