Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a dish that combines convenience with delightful flavors, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or special occasions. Imagine coming home to the enticing aroma of tender chicken simmering in a creamy sauce infused with garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. This recipe not only satisfies your cravings but also impresses your family and friends with minimal effort. The best part? You can prep everything in just a few minutes, set it in your crockpot, and let it do all the work while you focus on other tasks or simply relax. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner for two or hosting a gathering, this dish will surely make everyone fall in love with its rich taste. With each bite, you’ll understand why it’s called “Marry Me” chicken – it’s that good! So gather your ingredients and get ready to create a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for added richness and flavor
- Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese provides a rich texture; soften it before adding to the crockpot
For the Sauce:
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness without sacrificing taste
- Dried Italian Herbs: A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme enhances the dish’s flavor profile
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients on your countertop. Chop fresh garlic finely and cut sun-dried tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Season the boneless chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This step ensures that every bite is flavorful.
Step 3: Layer Ingredients in the Crockpot
Place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Add chopped garlic and sun-dried tomatoes over them evenly.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, chicken broth, and dried herbs. Mix until smooth and pour this mixture over the layered ingredients in the crockpot.
Step 5: Cook
Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for about 6-7 hours or on high heat for approximately 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Step 6: Serve
Once cooked through, shred the chicken slightly with two forks right inside the crockpot. Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the ingredients overnight
How to Serve Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare components like the chicken and sauce a day in advance. Simply season the chicken, mix the sauce ingredients, and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Storing: Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions of Crockpot Marry Me Chicken, which can last up to three months when properly sealed.
- Reheating: Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat until warm, or microwave in short intervals at medium power until heated through. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure food safety.
Suggestions for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Avoid Overcooking the Chicken
One of the most common mistakes people make when preparing Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is overcooking the chicken. Slow cookers operate at low temperatures, and even a few extra minutes can dry out the meat. To avoid this, ensure you follow the recommended cooking times based on your specific Crockpot model. For best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs and monitor them closely. If possible, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remember that the chicken will continue to cook slightly once removed from the heat.
Skipping the Searing Step
Many home cooks skip the searing step before adding chicken to their Crockpot. This crucial step enhances flavor through caramelization and adds depth to your dish. Before placing the chicken in the slow cooker, take a few moments to sear it in a hot skillet with olive oil until golden brown on both sides. This not only improves texture but also helps lock in moisture. By taking this extra step, your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken will taste richer and more delicious, making it a dish to remember.
Not Using Enough Liquid
Another mistake involves not using enough liquid in your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken recipe. While slow cooking allows ingredients to release moisture, starting with adequate liquid is essential for optimal results. Aim for around one cup of broth or sauce to help keep everything moist during cooking. Insufficient liquid can lead to dry chicken and may cause burning at the bottom of your pot. Adjust as necessary based on your specific ingredients; some vegetables may release additional moisture that can alter how much liquid you need initially.
Ignoring Flavor Balancing
Failing to balance flavors is an oversight that can diminish your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken’s overall appeal. Pay attention to seasoning; under-seasoning can result in blandness, while over-seasoning might make it unpalatable. Before serving, taste your dish and adjust seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, or herbs as needed. Additionally, consider adding elements like acid—juice from lemon or lime—to brighten flavors before serving. Balancing these components ensures that every bite of your meal is delightful and satisfying.
FAQs
What is Crockpot Marry Me Chicken?
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a creamy and flavorful slow-cooked dish made primarily with chicken breasts or thighs, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and cream cheese. Named for its reputation of being so delicious that it could inspire someone to propose marriage after tasting it, this recipe combines rich flavors with convenience. The slow cooking process allows all ingredients to meld beautifully together while ensuring that the chicken remains tender and juicy throughout cooking.
Can I make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! Making Crockpot Marry Me Chicken ahead of time is not only feasible but also convenient for busy weeknights or meal prepping. You can prepare all ingredients beforehand and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just remember to add any dairy ingredients like cream cheese closer to the end of cooking time if you plan to make it in advance for better texture and flavor retention.
What side dishes pair well with Crockpot Marry Me Chicken?
When serving Crockpot Marry Me Chicken, consider pairing it with side dishes that complement its creamy texture and rich flavors. Some excellent options include fluffy rice or quinoa for soaking up sauce, roasted vegetables for added crunch and nutrition, or a fresh garden salad for contrast. Garlic bread can also be a delightful addition if you want something extra indulgent; each option enhances the overall dining experience without overshadowing this star dish.
Can I freeze leftovers of Crockpot Marry Me Chicken?
Yes! Freezing leftovers of your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is an excellent way to enjoy this delicious meal later on without compromising quality. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it into airtight freezer-safe containers or bags—this helps prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on low heat until warmed through; adding a splash of broth can help revive its creamy consistency.
Conclusion
In conclusion, preparing Crockpot Marry Me Chicken requires attention to detail but results in a truly rewarding dish that delights everyone at your table. By avoiding common mistakes such as overcooking chicken and neglecting flavor balance, you create a delicious meal worthy of any occasion. Remember to enhance flavors through proper seasoning and consider complementary side dishes that elevate this dish further. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe promises satisfaction with every bite—making it an instant favorite you’ll want to prepare again and again!
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a sensational slow-cooked dish that combines the tenderness of chicken with a rich, creamy sauce. Bursting with flavor from garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and cream cheese, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With just a few minutes of prep time, you can set your crockpot and let it work its magic while you focus on other tasks. The end result? A mouthwatering meal that will leave everyone at the table begging for seconds—and maybe even proposing!
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves fresh garlic
- 1 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather and chop garlic; cut sun-dried tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Place seasoned chicken in the crockpot; layer with chopped garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Mix cream cheese, chicken broth, and herbs until smooth; pour over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until tender.
- Shred the chicken inside the crockpot before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 490mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
