If you’re looking for a flavorful and tender chicken dish that’s incredibly easy to make, this Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken recipe is perfect for you! It’s a rich and creamy dish made with tender chicken breasts, sun-dried tomatoes, herbs, and a delicious Parmesan sauce that is so good, it might just inspire a marriage proposal—hence the name "Marry Me Chicken." The best part? You can make it right in your crock pot, letting the slow cooker do all the work while you go about your day. Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a comforting family meal, this recipe is bound to impress. Let’s dive into the details and show you how to create this irresistible dish.
What is Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken?
Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, flavorful chicken dish made with juicy chicken breasts cooked in a slow cooker and smothered in a sauce made from heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become incredibly tender, while the rich sauce infuses it with irresistible flavor. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for date nights, special occasions, or just when you want a restaurant-quality meal at home with minimal effort.
Ingredients List for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream – For a rich, creamy sauce.
- 1 cup chicken broth – Helps thin the sauce and adds flavor.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a savory, cheesy depth to the sauce.
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped – Adds a slightly sweet and tangy flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with aromatic garlic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Adds earthy, Mediterranean flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Complements the cream and chicken with a subtle herb flavor.
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a bit of heat.
- Salt and pepper to taste – For seasoning the chicken and sauce.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish) – Adds a bright, fresh finish.
Substitutions and Variations
- Chicken Options: You can also use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts if you prefer a more tender and juicy cut of meat.
- Dairy-Free Version: Replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative to make this recipe suitable for those avoiding dairy.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes Substitute: If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, you can use cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a different flavor.
- Cheese: While Parmesan works best for this recipe, you can try Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a slightly different cheese flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure that the chicken broth and Parmesan cheese you use are gluten-free.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

- Season the chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This ensures the chicken will be flavorful when cooked.
- Arrange the chicken in the crock pot: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of your crock pot in a single layer.
- Prepare the sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, chicken broth, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, dried oregano, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together until well combined.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken breasts, making sure they are fully covered.
- Slow cook: Cover the crock pot with the lid and cook the chicken on LOW for 4-5 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Thicken the sauce (optional): If you want a thicker sauce, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce in the last 30 minutes of cooking. Let the sauce simmer and thicken as the chicken finishes cooking.
- Serve and garnish: Once the chicken is done, garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the chicken with the creamy sauce drizzled over the top.
How to Cook Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Season Chicken Generously: Don’t forget to season your chicken breasts well before placing them in the crock pot. This will ensure the chicken is flavorful and not bland.
- Layering is Important: Make sure the chicken is in a single layer in the crock pot. This helps them cook evenly and absorb all the delicious flavors from the sauce.
- Low and Slow: Cooking the chicken on low heat over a longer period results in more tender and juicy chicken. If you’re in a hurry, the high setting works too, but low is preferred for best results.
- Monitor Sauce Thickness: If you like a thicker sauce, adding the cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking will help. Stirring it in during the last 30 minutes will give the sauce time to thicken without clumping.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out if cooked too long, even in a crock pot. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s done but still juicy (165°F or 75°C).
- Not seasoning enough: Since this dish is fairly simple, proper seasoning is crucial. Don’t skimp on the salt, pepper, or the herbs in the sauce.
- Skipping the cornstarch slurry: If you like a thicker sauce, don’t skip the cornstarch step. Otherwise, the sauce might be too runny for some preferences.
- Not stirring the sauce: Occasionally check the sauce during the cooking process and give it a gentle stir to ensure the cheese and cream are evenly distributed and don’t separate.
Serving and Presentation Tips
- Serve with pasta or rice: This dish pairs beautifully with pasta (like fettuccine or penne) or white rice, which will soak up the creamy sauce. You can also try serving it over mashed potatoes for extra comfort.
- Add vegetables: A side of steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans complements the richness of the chicken perfectly.
- Top with fresh herbs: Garnish with freshly chopped basil, parsley, or even a little extra Parmesan cheese for a pop of color and added flavor.
How to Serve Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
- Family Style: Serve the chicken straight from the crock pot for a casual, family-style dinner. You can plate the chicken and pour the sauce over each serving.
- Individual Portions: Serve each person a piece of chicken, spoon some of the creamy sauce over the top, and pair it with your choice of sides like pasta or vegetables.
- Meal Prep: This dish makes great leftovers. Portion out servings with rice or pasta in meal prep containers, and store them in the fridge for easy lunches or dinners.
Presentation Ideas for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
- Garnish with Fresh Basil: Add a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves on top of each serving to brighten up the dish and add a lovely contrast to the creamy sauce.
- Serve Over Pasta or Rice: For a restaurant-style presentation, serve the chicken over a bed of pasta or rice and drizzle the creamy sauce on top. Add a small side of roasted vegetables for color and balance.
- Use a Rustic Serving Dish: Serve the entire dish in a rustic-style serving dish for a homestyle presentation that’s both inviting and beautiful.
Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe Tips
- Use High-Quality Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil are best for this recipe, as they provide a deeper flavor and richness to the sauce.
- Don't Skip the Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is key to the flavor of the sauce. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, which doesn’t melt as smoothly.
- Thicken to Your Liking: If you prefer a thicker sauce, don’t hesitate to use the cornstarch slurry or add extra cheese to thicken it up to your liking.
- Customize with Spices: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other spices like smoked paprika or Italian seasoning to give the dish your own unique twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time by about an hour to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. - Can I make this recipe without a crock pot?
Yes! You can make this dish on the stovetop. Sear the chicken in a large skillet, then make the sauce, add the chicken back in, and simmer everything together on low heat for about 20-30 minutes until the chicken is tender. - Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work just as well and are often more flavorful and juicier than breasts. - How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce is too thick. - Can I freeze Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
Conclusion
This Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken recipe is the perfect combination of rich, creamy, and savory flavors that make it the ideal comfort food. The slow cooker ensures the chicken turns out perfectly tender and juicy, while the Parmesan and sun-dried tomato sauce adds a luxurious touch. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion, a cozy family dinner, or meal prepping for the week, this dish is bound to impress. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a household favorite! Enjoy!
PrintCrock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe
This crock pot Marry Me chicken recipe is a rich and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a creamy, Parmesan sauce with sun-dried tomatoes. It's the perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal that’s ideal for busy nights or a romantic dinner. The sauce is infused with garlic, herbs, and a touch of spice, making it irresistible. Serve it over pasta or rice for a deliciously satisfying meal!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (low)
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- 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 (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the crock pot. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme.
- Add chicken broth, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes to the crock pot.
- Cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender.
- In the last 30 minutes, add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring gently to combine. Let it cook until the sauce is thickened.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter at the end of cooking.
- You can substitute boneless chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
Leave a Reply