Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich and creamy sundried tomato sauce. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or hosting friends for a special night in. The unique flavors and simple preparation make it an irresistible dish—so delicious, it might just lead to a proposal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With minimal effort, you can create a gourmet meal that impresses everyone at the table.
• Rich Flavor: The creamy sundried tomato sauce elevates the chicken, making each bite packed with deliciousness.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal everyone will love.
• Slow Cooker Convenience: Set it and forget it! This recipe lets your Crock Pot do all the hard work while you relax.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: It’s great for leftovers and can be easily stored in the fridge for quick meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure smooth preparation and cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Provides even cooking and allows flavors to meld beautifully over time.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning the chicken, adding depth of flavor before slow cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient amounts for consistent results every time.

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Ingredients

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken – tender chicken breasts in a rich and creamy sundried tomato sauce. A meal so good it’s proposal worthy! This easy slow cooker chicken recipe is absolutely delicious served with pasta, rice or mashed potatoes.

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 with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with the dried Italian herbs to enhance flavor.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat the butter and oil in a skillet or directly in your slow cooker if it has a browning function.
* Pan fry the chicken skin-side down until golden brown.

Step 3: Prepare for Slow Cooking

Turn the chicken breasts over (or transfer them to the slow cooker if not already using).
Pour in either apple vinegar mixed with water or chicken broth.
Season with paprika, garlic granules, and add sun-dried tomatoes.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on LOW setting for 90 minutes to 2 hours or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Thicken Sauce (Optional)

If desired, make a cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch with cold water. Stir into the sauce ten minutes before cooking time ends. This step helps thicken your sauce.

Step 6: Add Creaminess

Pile chicken to one side of the slow cooker. Stir in sour cream or heavy cream until well combined. Add grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for added flavor.

Step 7: Serve

Serve this delectable Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes—however you prefer! Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are some delicious ways to serve this creamy chicken recipe.

Over Pasta

• Serve the chicken over your favorite pasta, such as fettuccine or penne, allowing the sauce to coat each noodle for an indulgent meal.

With Rice

• Pair the chicken with fluffy white rice or brown rice. The grains will soak up the rich sundried tomato sauce, creating a satisfying dish.

On Mashed Potatoes

• For comfort food lovers, serve the chicken alongside creamy mashed potatoes. The sauce makes a perfect gravy for the potatoes.

In a Salad

• Shred the cooked chicken and toss it into a fresh salad. This adds protein and richness while keeping your meal light and healthy.

Wrapped in Tortillas

• For a fun twist, add the chicken and sauce to warm tortillas for delicious wraps. Top with fresh vegetables for added crunch.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside crusty bread or breadsticks to soak up every bit of that amazing sauce. Perfect for dipping!

How to Perfect Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

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

• Season generously: Don’t skimp on salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning; they enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Use quality ingredients: Fresh sun-dried tomatoes and good-quality chicken broth can elevate your dish significantly.
• Don’t rush cooking: Allowing enough time on low heat ensures tender chicken that absorbs all flavors.
• Adjust thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, use cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking; it’s an easy way to get that desired consistency.
• Add herbs at the end: Stirring in fresh parsley or basil right before serving brightens up the flavors and adds freshness.
• Taste before serving: Always taste and adjust seasonings if needed before plating—every palate is different!

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Complement your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken with these delightful side dishes that round out your meal perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread
   Crispy garlic bread is ideal for soaking up sauce. Simply spread butter mixed with minced garlic on slices before baking.

2. Steamed Vegetables
   A medley of steamed broccoli, carrots, and green beans adds color and nutrition without overpowering the main dish.

3. Cauliflower Rice
   Light yet filling, cauliflower rice is a low-carb alternative that pairs well with the creamy chicken sauce.

4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness, making them a delicious contrast to the savory chicken.

5. Quinoa Salad
   A refreshing quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers offers a nutritious side that’s also refreshing.

6. Baked Sweet Potatoes
   Sweet potatoes provide a naturally sweet counterbalance to the savory flavors of the chicken dish; bake until tender for best results.

7. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw can add crunch and brightness to your plate, balancing out the creamy texture of the chicken.

8. Zucchini Noodles
   Zoodles (zucchini noodles) are an excellent low-carb option that can be topped with some extra sauce from the chicken for flavor!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using a slow cooker can be simple, but there are common missteps that can affect the outcome of your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken adequately can lead to bland flavors. Always season generously with salt, pepper, and herbs.
• Overcrowding the pot: Filling the slow cooker too full can prevent even cooking. Ensure there’s enough space for heat circulation.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Poor-quality chicken or canned sun-dried tomatoes can diminish the dish’s overall flavor. Choose fresh and high-quality products to enhance taste.
• Not checking doneness: Cooking chicken without checking its internal temperature can lead to undercooked meat. Always ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
• Forgetting to add liquid: Slow cookers need moisture to function properly. Make sure you’re using enough broth or vinegar to keep things from drying out.
• Ignoring optional steps: Skipping the cornstarch slurry or adding cream too late might result in a less creamy sauce. Follow all steps for a rich final product.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken in an airtight container.
• It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dish until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe container and heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken:

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; however, adjust cooking time accordingly by increasing it by approximately 1 hour.

What sides pair well with Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken?

This dish is delicious with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. Vegetables like steamed broccoli or green beans also complement it nicely.

How do I customize my Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. You could also switch up the cheese based on your preference.

How long does it take to cook on LOW?

Cooking on LOW typically takes about 90 minutes to 2 hours, depending on your slow cooker’s model and size of chicken breasts.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute sour cream or heavy cream with coconut cream or any plant-based alternative for a dairy-free version.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is not just an easy meal; it’s also incredibly versatile. The creamy sauce paired with tender chicken makes it perfect for various side dishes. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or veggies! Give this recipe a try—you’ll love how effortlessly delicious it is!