Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot​

Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot is a dish that delights the taste buds and warms the heart. This recipe features tender, juicy chicken in a rich, creamy sauce with the tang of sun dried tomatoes and the savory touch of Parmesan cheese. The story behind its name is as charming as the dish itself, legend has it that serving this meal might just earn you a marriage proposal.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know to make this irresistible dish in a slow cooker. From its origins to creative variations, side dish ideas, pro tips, and a helpful FAQ section, you’ll be all set to whip up this proposal worthy meal.

So, pull out your crock pot and let’s start cooking.

Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot​

Print Recipe

• Author: The Prestons
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours (LOW) or 2-3 hours (HIGH)
• Total Time: Approximately 4.5 to 6.5 hours
• Yield: Servings: 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning the chicken)
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

• Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. (Optional: Sear in a skillet with olive oil until golden brown for extra flavor.)

• Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

• Combine in Crock Pot: Place the chicken in the crock pot and pour the sauce mixture over the top, ensuring the chicken is well coated.

• Cook:

  • On LOW: Cook for 4-6 hours.
  • On HIGH: Cook for 2-3 hours.
    The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

• Finishing Touches:

  • For a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir it into the sauce. Cook for an additional 15-20 minutes.
  • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

• Serve: Serve over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice with a side of garlic bread.

Notes

• For a dairy free version: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
• For added flavor: Stir in fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

What is Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot​?

History and Origin of Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot​

Marry Me Chicken got its whimsical name because of its incredible, proposal worthy flavor. The dish became a sensation online, with stories of love and engagement tied to its serving. Originally, it started as a simple skillet recipe with a creamy sauce, but its popularity led to a slow cooker adaptation that offers even more convenience and flavor depth.

Why Use a Crock Pot for This Recipe?

The crock pot, also known as a slow cooker, is perfect for Marry Me Chicken because it allows the chicken to become exceptionally tender. Slow cooking helps the flavors meld together, giving the creamy sauce time to absorb into the chicken and create that melt in your mouth experience. Plus, it’s a hands off cooking method, just set it and forget it!

How the Dish Got Its Romantic Name

The legend behind the name is as rich as the sauce itself. The story goes that after tasting this dish, someone proposed on the spot, hence, “Marry Me Chicken.” Whether it’s true or just a fun anecdote, one thing is certain: this dish has the power to impress. With its creamy, cheesy, and slightly tangy flavors, it’s hard not to fall in love at first bite.

Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot​

Essential Ingredients You Need

To make Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot, you’ll need a few simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs for extra juiciness)
• 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium for better control over saltiness)
• 1 cup heavy cream (for that rich, creamy sauce)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated gives the best flavor)
• ½ cup sun dried tomatoes (chopped, for a tangy twist)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, to add a little kick)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning the chicken)

These ingredients create a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and tangy flavors. Feel free to adjust seasonings according to your preference.

Optional Add Ins for Extra Flavor

Want to elevate this dish even more? Consider adding:

• Spinach – Stir in fresh spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Mushrooms – Sauté and add them for a hearty touch.
• Crispy bacon bits – For an extra layer of smoky goodness.

Substitutions and Dietary Adjustments

• Make it keto: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream and use chicken thighs.
• Dairy free option: Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast and heavy cream with coconut milk.
• Gluten free: This recipe is naturally gluten free, but always double check labels on store bought ingredients.

Step by Step Cooking Instructions

Preparing the Chicken: Tips for Tenderness

Before starting, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. For an extra layer of flavor, lightly sear the chicken in a skillet with olive oil until golden brown on both sides. This step isn’t mandatory but adds a delightful depth to your Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot.

If you prefer using chicken thighs instead of breasts, they offer a juicier texture and are more forgiving to long cooking times. Regardless of your choice, ensure that the chicken pieces are of similar size to promote even cooking.

Creating the Creamy Sauce: Key Steps

In a bowl, mix together:

• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Pour this blend over the chicken in the crock pot. The sauce will thicken naturally as it cooks, absorbing the flavors of the chicken and spices. For an extra creamy consistency, stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or sour cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Setting Up Your Crock Pot: Cooking Time and Temperature

Set your crock pot to LOW for 4-6 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours. The goal is to reach an internal chicken temperature of 165°F. Avoid lifting the lid too often, as this can release heat and extend the cooking time.

If you notice the sauce is too thin towards the end, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir this into the sauce, then cook for an additional 15-20 minutes to achieve a perfect, velvety consistency.

Final Touches: When and How to Serve

Once the Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot is ready, garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley to add a pop of color and freshness. The dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttery pasta.

Tips for the Perfect Marry Me Chicken in a Slow Cooker

Avoiding Common Mistakes

When making Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot, one of the biggest pitfalls is overcooking the chicken. Since crock pots retain heat well, cooking too long can turn your chicken dry and stringy. Stick to 4-6 hours on LOW or 2-3 hours on HIGH, and use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F.

Another common mistake is adding dairy products too early. Ingredients like heavy cream and Parmesan cheese can curdle if exposed to prolonged heat. Always add them during the last hour of cooking to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.

How to Prevent Dry Chicken

For extra juicy chicken, opt for chicken thighs instead of breasts. They handle long cooking times better and add a richer flavor to the dish. If you’re using chicken breasts, consider brining them in salt water for 30 minutes before cooking. This simple step can help lock in moisture.

Making the Sauce Extra Creamy

If your sauce feels a bit thin, a quick fix is to stir in 1-2 tablespoons of cream cheese or a splash of half and half towards the end of cooking. Additionally, using full fat dairy products generally produces a richer sauce. A quick cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water) can also thicken the sauce without altering the flavor.

Variations of Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot Recipe

Healthy Marry Me Chicken Recipe Ideas

If you’re looking to lighten up Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot, there are a few simple swaps to try. Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or Greek yogurt to reduce calories and add a slight tang. You can also use low fat Parmesan cheese or skip the cheese altogether for a dairy free option.

To make this dish even healthier, add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to boost fiber and nutrients. These vegetables not only complement the flavors but also make the meal more filling.

How to Make It Keto, Gluten Free, or Dairy Free

For a keto friendly version, stick with heavy cream and Parmesan while avoiding thickeners like cornstarch. Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of pasta.

For a gluten free recipe, ensure that all ingredients, especially chicken broth and spices, are labeled gluten free. The dish is naturally gluten free unless thickeners or pre made seasonings contain gluten.

If you need a dairy free option, swap out the cream for coconut cream and the Parmesan for nutritional yeast. These substitutions maintain the creaminess while accommodating dietary restrictions.

Creative Twists: Adding Spinach, Mushrooms, or Bacon

To add even more flavor, try incorporating:

• Fresh spinach: Stir in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Sautéed mushrooms: Add at the beginning for an earthy touch.
• Crispy bacon bits: Sprinkle on top just before serving for a smoky crunch.

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot

When serving Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot, pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate your meal to a whole new level. Because this dish features a rich and creamy sauce, it goes wonderfully with simple sides that soak up all that goodness.

• Mashed Potatoes: The creamy potatoes complement the sauce perfectly.
• Buttery Pasta: Fettuccine, penne, or egg noodles work great.
• Steamed Rice: A classic choice that balances the flavors well.
• Garlic Bread: Ideal for dipping into the sauce.

If you prefer a lighter option, serve it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans. The contrast between the crisp veggies and the creamy chicken is simply delicious.

Wine Pairing Tips

To add a touch of elegance, serve Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot with a glass of white wine. Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio are great choices because their crispness cuts through the creaminess of the dish. If you’re a red wine lover, try a light Pinot Noir or Beaujolais.

Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, these sides and wine pairings make this dish a star at any table!

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

How to Properly Store in the Refrigerator or Freezer

If you’ve made a big batch of Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot and have leftovers, don’t worry. This dish stores well and still tastes amazing the next day.

• In the Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• In the Freezer: Place in a freezer safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure the chicken is fully cooled before freezing to maintain its texture.

Best Methods to Reheat Without Losing Flavor

To reheat, avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the chicken rubbery. Instead:

• On the Stovetop: Warm slowly over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce is too thick.
• In the Oven: Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes in a covered dish to keep the chicken moist.

Can You Make It Ahead of Time?

Yes! Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble all the ingredients in the crock pot the night before. In the morning, just switch it on and let it cook while you go about your day.

These storage and reheating tips ensure your Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot tastes just as good the second time around.

Nutritional Information for Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot

Knowing the nutritional content of Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot can help you make informed choices, especially if you’re following a specific diet. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional content per 100g serving of this creamy and comforting dish:

Nutritional Highlights

• High Protein: Provides a good source of protein, making it ideal for muscle maintenance.
• Moderate Fat Content: Mostly from the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, contributing to the creamy texture.
• Low in Carbohydrates: Suitable for low carb or keto diets with a few simple adjustments.
• Rich in Calcium: Thanks to the cheese, this dish offers a decent amount of calcium.

If you’re looking to make Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot healthier, you can reduce the fat content by using light cream or Greek yogurt. You could also boost the fiber by adding spinach or kale to the recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the Best Type of Chicken to Use?

When preparing Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot, both chicken breasts and chicken thighs work well. However, if you want ultra tender and juicy chicken, opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They hold up better to slow cooking and absorb the creamy sauce beautifully. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts are great too, just avoid overcooking them to keep them from drying out.

Can I Make This Recipe Without a Crock Pot?

Absolutely! If you don’t have a crock pot, you can easily make Marry Me Chicken on the stovetop or in the oven. To do this, brown the chicken in a skillet, then simmer it in the creamy sauce over low heat until fully cooked. Alternatively, bake the chicken and sauce together in a covered dish at 350°F for 30-40 minutes.

How Do I Thicken the Sauce if It’s Too Runny?

If your sauce turns out too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the sauce and let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until it thickens up nicely. This method works well without altering the dish’s flavor.

Is Marry Me Chicken Spicy? How to Adjust Heat Levels?

Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot has a mild kick, mainly from the red pepper flakes. If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch more red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce. On the other hand, if you’re serving kids or want a milder flavor, simply omit the red pepper flakes altogether.

If you’re loving this Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot recipe, why not explore more comforting chicken dishes to add to your meal rotation? You might enjoy trying the Chicken and Ritz Cracker Casserole for another creamy and satisfying dinner option. For those looking to switch things up, the Chicken Fajita Pasta offers a delicious twist with bold flavors and tender chicken. These recipes pair perfectly with the rich and creamy vibes of Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot and bring even more variety to your dinner table.

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot

There’s a good reason why Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot has become a viral sensation. It’s not just the creamy, dreamy sauce or the melt in your mouth chicken, it’s the ease of making such an impressive dish with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a special dinner, this dish delivers on flavor and presentation every single time.

With its versatility, you can adjust the recipe to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Plus, the crock pot does all the hard work for you, leaving you free to enjoy your day. Give it a try, you might just fall in love at first bite.