Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich and creamy sundried tomato sauce. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests. The easy preparation in a slow cooker makes it a go-to choice for busy weeknights, ensuring you can enjoy a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply season, place in the slow cooker, and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor: The creamy sundried tomato sauce elevates the dish to something truly special.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
• Impressive Dish: A meal so delicious, it may just lead to proposals!
• Family Friendly: Its mild yet flavorful taste appeals to both adults and children alike.

Tools and Preparation

To create this mouthwatering Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Skillet (optional)
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking, making it easy to enjoy delicious meals without constant monitoring.
• Skillet: Ideal for browning the chicken before slow cooking, enhancing its flavor and texture.

Ingredients

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken – tender chicken breasts in a rich and creamy sundried tomato sauce. A meal so good it’s proposal worthy! This easy slow cooker chicken recipe is absolutely delicious served with pasta, rice or mashed potatoes.

For the Chicken

• 4 chicken breasts, skin on or skinless
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper

For the Sauce

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp olive oil, (can omit if preferred)
• ½ cup (120ml) white apple vinegar + ½ cup water OR 1 cup (240) chicken broth
• 4 tbsp diced sun-dried tomatoes, drained
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp garlic granules
• 1 tsp chicken bouillon, if you have used apple vinegar

For Creaminess

• 1 cup (225g) sour cream or heavy cream
• 1 tbsp cornstarch, diluted in 2 tbsp cold water (optional)
• 2-3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp flat leaf parsley, or fresh basil, chopped

How to Make Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning to ensure that every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat the butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. If your slow cooker has a browning function, you can do this step directly in there. Place the chicken skin-side down in the pan and cook until golden brown.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Turn the chicken breasts over. If using a skillet, transfer them to your slow cooker now. Pour in either white apple vinegar mixed with water or chicken broth. Season with sweet paprika, garlic granules, and add the diced sun-dried tomatoes.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover your slow cooker and set it to LOW. Cook for 90 minutes to 2 hours or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Thicken Sauce (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker sauce, prepare a cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch with cold water. Stir this mixture into your sauce about ten minutes before serving. If you’re using sour cream, you can skip this step.

Step 6: Add Creaminess

Once cooked, pile your chicken to one side of the slow cooker. Stir in sour cream or heavy cream until well combined. Mix in grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your delicious Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken over rice, noodles, or alongside mashed potatoes—enjoy!

How to Serve Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides. Here are some delicious ways to serve this creamy chicken that will impress your family and friends.

With Pasta

• Spaghetti or Fettuccine: Toss the chicken and sauce over cooked spaghetti or fettuccine for a comforting meal.
• Pasta Salad: Serve the chicken on top of a chilled pasta salad for a refreshing twist.

Over Rice

• White Rice: A simple side of steamed white rice absorbs the rich flavors of the sauce perfectly.
• Brown Rice: For a healthier option, serve it over brown rice to add more fiber and nutrients.

Mashed Potatoes

• Classic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a satisfying base that complements the sauce beautifully.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Add roasted garlic to your mashed potatoes for an extra layer of flavor.

With Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and pairs well with the savory chicken.
• Roasted Asparagus: Roast asparagus in the oven with olive oil and salt for a crisp side that balances the richness of the dish.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

To ensure your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use quality chicken: Fresh, high-quality chicken breasts will enhance flavor and texture.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to tweak salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning according to your preference.
• Don’t rush cooking time: Allowing enough time for slow cooking ensures tender, juicy chicken.
• Incorporate fresh herbs: Adding fresh parsley or basil enhances the dish’s freshness just before serving.
• Thicken sauce wisely: If using sour cream, you may skip cornstarch; otherwise, make a slurry for a thicker sauce.
• Experiment with flavors: Try adding different spices or vegetables for unique variations each time you make it.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken can be complemented by various side dishes. Here are some excellent choices that pair well with this flavorful main course.

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy loaf of garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
2. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice offers a light base while absorbing the rich flavors.
3. Green Salad: A mixed green salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the chicken.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa pilaf provides a nutritious option that complements the dish beautifully.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts nicely with the savory chicken.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, especially with a dish as delightful as Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always season well with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs for a delicious base.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Adding too much chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure there’s enough space for air circulation by cooking in batches if necessary.
• Ignoring the browning step: Skipping the browning of chicken can result in less flavor. Take a few extra minutes to sear the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Not checking internal temperature: Cooking without checking temperature may lead to undercooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Using low-quality ingredients: Poor quality ingredients can affect taste. Invest in good-quality chicken and fresh sun-dried tomatoes for better flavor.
• Rushing the cooking time: Cooking for less than recommended may leave the chicken tough. Stick to the low setting and allow ample time for tender results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, stirring gently until warmed thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken.

What is Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken?

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a slow-cooked dish featuring tender chicken breasts in a creamy sundried tomato sauce that’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even lean cuts of beef or lamb. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on meat type.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, replace sour cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a creamy texture without dairy.

What dishes pair well with Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken?

This recipe pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. You can also serve it over steamed vegetables for a lighter option.

How long does it take to cook?

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken typically takes about 90 minutes to 2 hours on LOW heat until fully cooked and tender.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a fantastic recipe that captivates with its rich flavors and creamy texture. Easy to prepare and versatile, you can customize this dish by changing up the herbs or adding your favorite veggies. Give this delightful meal a try; you won’t be disappointed!