Amazing Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Irresistibly Flavorful Chicken Dish

Once upon a time, food was more than just a meal; it was an experience that shaped our hearts. Imagine a young girl in a sunny kitchen in Orlando, blending the zest of life with the rich tastes of Mexico, surrounded by laughter and the scent of spices. Each tortilla pressed by her mama and every secret shared by her abuela wove a tapestry of comforting flavors that still resonate today. Now, with every recipe created—a soulful Marry Me Chicken or a quick street-style bite—she invites you to share in the joy that can only come from cooking with love.

There’s a special magic that unfolds when you prepare this crockpot marry me chicken; it’s romance on a plate. Marrying rich, succulent chicken with a velvety sauce, this dish promises to wow your taste buds and your loved ones. Perfect for any weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s simple enough for any home cook to master, while delivering depth that feels extravagant. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let your crockpot do the heavy lifting!

Quick Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours (Low) or 1.5 hours (High)
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes (Low) or 1.5 hours 15 minutes (High)
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy
• Cuisine: American/Mexican
• Best Season: Year-round

What Makes This Dish Shine

• Flavor Explosion: Marry Me Chicken isn’t just a name; it’s a flavor experience that combines tender chicken with rich cream, garlic, and a hint of spice. Each bite invites you to fall in love with the flavors all over again.
• Effortless Cooking: With minimal prep and the magic of a slow cooker, this dish requires little hands-on time. Just sear, mix, and let your crockpot work its wonders!
• Versatile Dish for Any Occasion: Be it a casual family dinner or a romantic evening, Marry Me Chicken suits all occasions. Dress it up or keep it simple, and it will always impress.
• Family-Friendly Meal: The creamy sauce and tender chicken appeal to both kids and adults, making it a go-to recipe that pleases picky eaters. Enjoy meal times filled with smiles and satisfaction.

Essential Ingredients for Your Dish

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 Tablespoons olive oil
• 2 Tablespoons butter
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• 3 Tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ⅓ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (drained)
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 10 fresh basil leaves (chopped)

Ingredient Insights

• Chicken Breasts: Go for organic options whenever possible for better flavor and health benefits.
• Heavy Cream: Full-fat cream creates that perfect velvety sauce that clings to the chicken and elevates this dish.
• Sun-dried Tomatoes: Adds a sweet, tangy layer to the sauce; you can easily substitute with roasted red peppers in a pinch.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese always melts better and brings a richer flavor compared to pre-grated versions.

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side until it’s golden brown; this step builds flavor and gives a gorgeous color.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and cornstarch until it’s smooth. This will help thicken the sauce later on.
4. Pour the broth mixture into the slow cooker, and stir in the minced garlic, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and the remaining salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and paprika.
5. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, grated parmesan, and fresh basil into the sauce, mixing well.
6. Carefully nestle the seared chicken into the sauce, making sure it’s well-coated.
7. Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for about 3 hours or on HIGH for 1½ hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is fork-tender.
8. Serve hot with sides like broccoli cauliflower salad, or enjoy a refreshing drink like chilled Russian Apple Kvas to complement the meal.

Pro Pointers for Best Results

• Searing Chicken: Take your time to sear the chicken properly; this caramelization adds depth of flavor and richness to the overall dish.
• Slow Cooking Time: For maximum tenderness, opt for the low setting. The longer cooking time allows for flavors to meld beautifully.
• Ingredient Freshness: Fresh basil and garlic elevate the taste; using dried herbs may alter the flavor profile.
• Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, adjust cornstarch to your liking, and consider adding a touch more during cooking if needed.

Exciting Variations to Try

• Vegan Delight: Swap chicken for firm tofu or chickpeas and use plant-based cream for a delicious vegetarian alternative that maintains the heartiness.
• Mild Version: Skip the red pepper flakes for a family-friendly dish that everyone can enjoy without the heat.
• Spiced Up: Boost flavor by increasing the amount of red pepper flakes or adding a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
• Regional Flare: Incorporate local spices or flavors inspired by your culture, like adobo seasoning or lime juice for a unique twist.

Perfect Pairings for Your Chicken

• Sides: Pair this dish with roasted vegetables, fluffy mashed potatoes, or a vibrant salad.
• Beverages: Complement your meal with chilled white wine, or for a non-alcoholic choice, serve with a sparkling fruit drink.
• Dessert: Conclude your dining experience with a light dessert like lemon sorbet or tres leches cake for a sweet ending.

Make It Ahead & Freezer-Friendly

• Prep Ahead: Season and sear the chicken a day before, then store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the crockpot when ready to cook.
• Freezing: Assemble everything and freeze it before cooking. Thaw overnight in the fridge and cook as directed the next day.
• Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Beautiful Serving Suggestions

• Present this dish in a colorful bowl atop a bed of your choice—rice, pasta, or grains—to create an eye-catching plate that invites indulgence. Garnish with extra fresh basil for a splash of color and a fragrant finish.

Kitchen Secrets for Effortless Cooking

• Keep it on Low: Always aim for slow cooking for deeper flavors, enhancing the taste of the sauce and tenderizing the chicken beautifully.
• Flavor Build-Up: Taste and adjust the seasoning during cooking; it’s the best way to ensure a delicious result every time.
• Time to rest: Let your chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking; this keeps the juices sealed in for a moist and tasty bite.
• Baking Sheet Trick: Use the excess sauce to drizzle over sides, maximizing flavor while minimizing waste—yummy and resourceful!

Storing & Reheating Tips

• Reheat in Microwave: Place the chicken on a microwave-safe dish. Heat gently to maintain moisture, adding a splash of cream if needed.
• Stovetop Method: Reheat on low heat in a saucepan over the stove, stirring regularly to prevent scorching and keep things creamy.
• Preserve Texture: Store the chicken in sauce; it helps maintain moisture, keeping your meal delicious even as leftovers.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to increase the cooking time to ensure it’s fully cooked.
• What if I don’t have heavy cream? You can substitute with half-and-half or a combination of milk and butter for a lighter version.
• Can I leave out the cheese? Absolutely! This dish is still delightful without it, and you can add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
• Is it spicy? The spice level is adjustable; feel free to omit any spicy ingredients for a milder dish suitable for everyone.
• Can I use a stovetop instead of a slow cooker? Yes! This recipe can be cooked gently in a dutch oven on the stovetop, just reduce the liquid slightly.
• How would I make this dish gluten-free? Simply substitute cornstarch with arrowroot powder or a gluten-free thickener.

Nutrition Information

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 525
• Protein: 45g
• Carbs: 8g
• Fat: 36g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
  Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

A Warm Reflection

In the heart of every family lies a kitchen filled with the symphony of clanking pots and shared laughter over meals. Through family recipes handed down generations, we celebrate love, life, and a connection that binds us together. Sharing these heartfelt dishes, like this Marry Me Chicken, allows us to invite others into our world—to enjoy the vibrant flavors and create enduring memories with loved ones.

Ending on a Delicious Note

Cooking together invites a sense of community, warmth, and creativity into every home. This crockpot marry me chicken is not just a meal; it’s a journey of flavors and love that you can share. We encourage you to try this recipe, create your own cherished moments, and remember to pin it for later inspiration. Happy cooking!

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: emma
• Total Time: 195 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A delectable crockpot dish featuring tender chicken in a creamy, flavorful sauce, perfect for any occasion.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 Tablespoons olive oil
• 2 Tablespoons butter
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• 3 Tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ⅓ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (drained)
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 10 fresh basil leaves (chopped)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and cornstarch until smooth.
4. Pour the broth mixture into the slow cooker, and stir in minced garlic, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and paprika.
5. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, grated parmesan, and fresh basil; mix well.
6. Nestle the seared chicken into the sauce, ensuring it’s well-coated.
7. Cover and cook on LOW for about 3 hours or HIGH for 1½ hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
8. Serve hot with desired sides and enjoy!

Notes

For maximum tenderness, prefer cooking on LOW setting. Adjust cornstarch as needed for a thicker sauce.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 180 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American/Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 525
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 45g
• Cholesterol: 150mg