Are you ready to impress with a meal that could spark romance? My Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is not only simple but bursting with flavor. In just a few easy steps, you’ll create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family dinner or date night. Let’s dive into the ingredients and methods that make this recipe a winner. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Creamy: This dish combines the richness of heavy cream with the tangy flavor of sun-dried tomatoes, creating a sauce that’s irresistibly creamy and flavorful.
- Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps and minimal hands-on time, this crockpot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week.
- Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with chicken, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, this recipe is a great way to enjoy a nutritious meal without sacrificing taste.
- Family Favorite: This dish is sure to impress everyone at the dinner table, making it a go-to recipe for gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Chicken and Main Ingredients
For this Crockpot Marry Me Chicken, you need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, drained and chopped)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
These main items form the heart of this dish. The chicken is tender, juicy, and so easy to cook. Sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of flavor and a nice texture. Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and creamy, while chicken broth keeps everything moist.
Seasonings and Add-ins
To bring out the best taste, you will add:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garlic powder adds a savory note, while Italian seasoning gives a classic flavor. Red pepper flakes add a bit of heat if you like it spicy. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to suit your taste.
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
For an extra kick, consider adding:
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Spinach brings color and nutrition to the dish, while Parmesan adds a salty, nutty taste. Fresh basil leaves on top make the meal look and taste even better. Feel free to mix and match these extras based on your taste!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
Start with four boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Place them at the bottom of the crockpot. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. This will add great flavor. Make sure each piece is coated well.
Mixing the Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix one cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes, one cup of heavy cream, and one cup of chicken broth. If you like heat, add half a teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Stir this mixture until it blends together smoothly. This sauce is rich and creamy, making the chicken taste amazing.
Cooking in the Crockpot
Pour the sauce over the seasoned chicken breasts in the crockpot. Cover the pot and set it on low for six to seven hours. If you are short on time, you can cook it on high for four hours. About thirty minutes before serving, add one cup of fresh spinach and half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir it in to let the cheese melt and the spinach wilt. When it’s done, the chicken will be tender, and the sauce will be thick and delicious. Enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Tender Chicken
To get tender chicken, start with boneless, skinless breasts. These cook evenly. Season the chicken well with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. This adds flavor throughout. Always make sure to layer the chicken on the bottom of the crockpot. This helps it stay juicy as it cooks.
How to Avoid Overcooking
Cooking time is key. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 4 hours. Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temp. It should reach 165°F. If you leave it too long, it may dry out. You can also add the spinach and cheese about 30 minutes before serving. This keeps them fresh and vibrant.
Serving Suggestions for Maximum Flavor
Serve the chicken with the creamy sauce on top. This enhances the taste. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. Pair it with pasta or rice to soak up that flavorful sauce. You can also serve it with a side salad for a light meal. Enjoy every bite!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil not only enhances the flavor but also adds a vibrant color to the dish. Consider adding it just before serving for the best taste.
- Customize the Heat: If you enjoy a little kick, feel free to increase the red pepper flakes. Start with a small amount, taste, and adjust as needed.
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Ensure your chicken breasts are of uniform size for even cooking. If they’re thick, you might want to pound them slightly before placing them in the crockpot.
- Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some of the moisture to evaporate.
Variations
Low-Carb Adaptations
You can make this dish low-carb with a few simple swaps. Instead of heavy cream, use full-fat coconut milk. It gives a rich flavor without the carbs. Use cauliflower rice instead of pasta or rice. This will keep your meal low in carbs while still being filling. The sun-dried tomatoes add a nice touch, but be sure to check the carbs on the label.
Ingredient Swaps
If you’re looking for dairy-free options, swap heavy cream for almond milk. You can also use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor. For a tangy twist, try adding a splash of lemon juice. You will still get a creamy sauce that is rich and tasty, even without dairy.
Adding Vegetables for Extra Nutrition
Adding more veggies boosts flavor and nutrition. You can toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Add them in at the same time as the spinach. They will cook down nicely and blend with the sauce. Another great option is adding broccoli or green beans for a healthy crunch. These additions are not only good for you; they also make the dish colorful and fun.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken fresh, let it cool first. Place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container. Make sure to store it in the fridge. It will last up to three days. For best taste, eat it sooner rather than later.
Freezing Recommendations
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Portion the chicken and sauce into freezer-safe bags. Remove as much air as you can before sealing. Label the bags with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, you can use the stove or microwave. If using the stove, heat it in a pan over low heat. Stir often until it’s hot. In the microwave, place the chicken in a bowl and cover it. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This keeps the chicken moist and tasty. Enjoy your meal again!
FAQs
Can I make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken without cream?
Yes, you can make this dish without cream. You can use Greek yogurt or coconut milk for a lighter version. These options give a creamy taste without the fat of heavy cream. Just mix them in the same way as you would the cream. If you choose yogurt, stir it in towards the end of cooking to keep it smooth.
How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F inside. You can check this with a meat thermometer. The chicken should also look white and not pink. If you press it with a fork, the juices should run clear. If it falls apart easily, it is very tender and ready to eat.
What can I serve with Crockpot Marry Me Chicken?
This dish pairs well with many sides. Here are some ideas:
- Cooked rice or quinoa to soak up the sauce
- Pasta for a hearty meal
- Fresh salad for a light option
- Steamed veggies for added nutrition
You can also serve it with crusty bread to enjoy the creamy sauce!
This blog post explored making delicious Crockpot Marry Me Chicken. We discussed the key ingredients, including chicken and seasonings. I shared step-by-step instructions, tips for cooking tender chicken, and ideas for extra flavor. You can customize the dish with variations and learn how to store leftovers properly.
In summary, this recipe offers a simple way to create a flavorful meal. With a few tweaks, you can make it suit your taste and diet. Enjoy crafting this tasty dish that’s sure to impres
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, drained and chopped)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- for garnish Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- In a separate bowl, mix the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until well combined.
- Pour the tomato and cream mixture over the seasoned chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese to the crockpot. Stir to combine and allow it to wilt and melt into the sauce.
- Once everything is cooked, serve the chicken with the creamy sauce drizzled on top, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
