If you're looking for a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that's bound to impress, Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is exactly what you need. This rich, creamy chicken recipe has all the elements of comfort food and is perfect for any occasion—whether you're hosting a dinner or just preparing a hearty weeknight meal. Stick around, because by the end of this article, you’ll not only learn how to make this fantastic dish, but also tips, variations, and how to present it like a pro!

What is Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken?
Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a creamy chicken dish with Italian-inspired flavors that got its name because it's supposedly so delicious that one bite will make anyone want to propose! It’s packed with flavors from ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, parmesan cheese, and herbs, all cooked slowly in a crock pot for tender, juicy chicken infused with creamy goodness. This dish is simple yet elegant, and is perfect for any romantic dinner, family gathering, or just when you want something that tastes extraordinary with minimal effort.
Ingredients List for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Substitutions and Variations
One of the great things about Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is how flexible the recipe can be. You can make a variety of substitutions to fit your dietary needs or personal preferences. For instance, if you’re not a fan of chicken breasts, you can substitute them with boneless chicken thighs, which are more tender and flavorful. You can also swap out the heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream if you’re lactose intolerant, though this will slightly change the flavor.
For a lower-carb version, you can skip the sun-dried tomatoes or replace them with fresh cherry tomatoes. If you’re a fan of more heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper. You can even add mushrooms or spinach to pack in more veggies. With this recipe, feel free to get creative and adjust it to suit your taste.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

- Prepare the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides.
- Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are lightly browned. This step is optional but helps to lock in the flavors.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, parmesan cheese, oregano, thyme, basil, and red pepper flakes. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Add Ingredients to the Crock Pot: Place the seared chicken breasts into the crock pot. Pour the cream mixture over the top, ensuring the chicken is fully covered. Then, sprinkle the chopped sun-dried tomatoes over the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover the crock pot and set it on low for 4-5 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. If you prefer a faster cooking time, you can set the crock pot to high and cook for 2-3 hours.
- Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you want a thicker sauce, you can remove the chicken once it's done and set it aside. Turn the crock pot to high and cook the sauce for an additional 10-15 minutes to reduce and thicken it. You can also whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water) to help thicken the sauce.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Once the chicken and sauce are ready, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of freshness and color.
How to Cook Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is incredibly simple, and the slow cooker does most of the work for you. The first step is seasoning the chicken well to ensure that each bite is full of flavor. Searing the chicken in a skillet beforehand may seem like an extra step, but it’s worth the effort as it adds a layer of caramelized flavor that enhances the overall dish.
Once you’ve added everything to the crock pot, it’s all about letting the magic happen. The low and slow cooking process ensures that the chicken remains tender and juicy, while the cream sauce absorbs all the herbs and spices. By the time it’s done, you’ll have a rich, savory dish that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a straightforward recipe, a few common mistakes can alter the final dish. Here are some things to avoid:
- Overcooking the Chicken: Make sure to check the chicken's doneness with a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Overcooking can make the chicken dry.
- Not Searing the Chicken: While optional, searing the chicken helps to seal in the flavors and creates a better texture. Don’t skip this step if you want a more professional result.
- Using Too Much Salt: Since parmesan cheese is salty, be cautious when adding additional salt to the dish. Taste the sauce before adding more salt.
- Curdling the Sauce: Adding the cream too early or cooking it on high for too long can cause the sauce to curdle. Stick to low heat to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.
Serving and Presentation Tips
When it comes to serving Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken, it’s all about balancing the rich flavors with light, fresh sides. You can serve the chicken over a bed of pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice to soak up the creamy sauce. For a lighter option, pair it with steamed vegetables, a crisp side salad, or roasted asparagus.
For the final touch, sprinkle some freshly grated parmesan on top and garnish with chopped parsley. You can also add a few whole sun-dried tomatoes for decoration to tie in the flavors and make the dish look even more appetizing.
How to Serve Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Once the chicken is done, use tongs to carefully transfer each piece onto a serving plate. Make sure to drizzle plenty of that luscious cream sauce over the top of the chicken and around the plate. Serving this dish family-style is also a great option. Simply place the chicken and sauce in a large serving bowl and let everyone help themselves. Be sure to have some bread on hand to soak up any extra sauce!
Presentation Ideas for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
For a visually stunning presentation, consider serving Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken on a large white platter, which will allow the vibrant colors of the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh parsley to pop. You can also arrange the chicken over a bed of pasta or rice, then spoon the sauce over the top in an artful drizzle. Add some extra parmesan cheese or fresh herbs as a garnish for that final touch of elegance.
If you're serving this dish for a special occasion, light some candles, set the table with your best dinnerware, and let this meal take center stage.
Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe Tips
- Searing is Optional, But Worth It: Searing the chicken before adding it to the crock pot brings out a richer flavor.
- Go Slow for Best Results: While you can cook this dish on high, cooking it on low helps the chicken stay more tender and juicy.
- Thicken the Sauce if Needed: If your sauce is too thin, try reducing it or adding a cornstarch slurry.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Mushrooms, spinach, or even olives can add new dimensions to the flavor of this dish.
- Leftovers Make Great Sandwiches: The chicken and sauce taste fantastic the next day, especially on a sandwich or wrap.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are a great alternative, as they’re often juicier and more flavorful.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a dairy-free version, though the flavor will change slightly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, but you can reheat it with a splash of chicken broth or water.
Can I freeze Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Is this dish spicy?
The red pepper flakes add a little heat, but it’s mild. You can adjust the amount of pepper flakes to suit your taste.
Conclusion
Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is an incredibly easy and delicious recipe that delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. Whether you're preparing it for a special date night or a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to impress. With its rich sauce, tender chicken, and the perfect balance of herbs and spices, one bite may just be enough to make someone fall in love! Try this recipe out, and don’t forget to experiment with your own variations and serving ideas.
PrintCrock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe
Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a savory and creamy slow cooker recipe that combines tender chicken with a flavorful mix of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, all in a luscious cream sauce. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners, this dish will make everyone fall in love with its rich, mouthwatering flavors. The recipe uses simple ingredients and requires minimal preparation, allowing you to create a gourmet meal with ease.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (low) or 2 hours 30 minutes (high)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the crock pot and season with salt and pepper.
- Add chicken broth, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender.
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes.
- Let cook for another 20-30 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Serve the chicken with the creamy sauce on top and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Serve with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 750mg
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