If you’re craving a meal that’s equal parts simple, comforting, and undeniably delicious, you have to try Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken. This swoon-worthy dish pairs juicy chicken breasts with a velvety sauce loaded with sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, and Italian herbs. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again—not just because it’s easy, but because the flavors are practically irresistible. Whether you want a family-friendly dinner or a romantic meal, this Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken deserves a spot at the top of your must-cook list.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a handful of everyday kitchen staples can come together to create something truly magical. Each ingredient in this Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken contributes its own special flair, building layers of creamy, herby, and savory goodness that make every bite memorable.
- Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless, and the perfect blank canvas for soaking up all that rich, creamy sauce.
- Salt: Brings out the natural flavors of the chicken and seasons the whole dish from the inside out.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and rounds out the savory notes in the sauce.
- Garlic powder: Delivers that unmistakable garlicky depth without any chopping needed.
- Onion powder: Subtly sweet and savory, this boosts the sauce’s flavor profile.
- Olive oil: Gives the chicken a beautiful golden sear and brings a hint of richness.
- Chicken broth: Infuses the sauce with savory flavor and ensures the chicken stays extra moist.
- Heavy cream: The real star of the sauce, making it incredibly luscious and smooth.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty, umami goodness and helps the sauce thicken up just right.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Sweet, tangy, and chewy—they bring bold pops of flavor and color.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that transport you straight to the Mediterranean.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle touch of heat, if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Unsalted butter: Melts into the sauce to make it even silkier and richer.
- Fresh basil or parsley: A bright, fresh finish that takes flavor and presentation to the next level.
How to Make Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. If you have a few extra minutes, searing the chicken in a skillet with a splash of olive oil until golden on each side is totally worth it. This simple step locks in flavor and gives the final dish a beautiful color. But don’t worry—if you’re pressed for time, you can skip the sear and go straight to the crock pot!
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Sauce
While the chicken is getting that irresistible golden crust, whisk together the chicken broth, heavy cream, grated Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you’d like a little kick. This creamy, herby mixture comes together in seconds, but you’ll love how it slowly melds with the chicken as it cooks.
Step 3: Let the Crock Pot Work Its Magic
Arrange the seasoned (and optionally seared) chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Pour the creamy sauce all over, making sure every bit of chicken is beautifully coated. Dot the top with unsalted butter to guarantee a super-silky finish. Put the lid on and cook everything on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. The Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is ready when the chicken is fork-tender and soaked in all that dreamy sauce.
Step 4: Finish and Garnish
Once the chicken is perfectly cooked through, give the sauce a gentle stir to bring all those bits together. Top with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley just before you serve. Not only does it add beautiful color, but the fresh herbs also brighten up the whole dish.
How to Serve Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Garnishes
A generous handful of fresh basil or parsley scattered over the top adds a lively pop of green and a fresh note that beautifully balances the creamy richness. If you really want to impress, try adding a sprinkle of extra shaved Parmesan or even a few extra sun-dried tomato strips for restaurant-worthy appeal.
Side Dishes
For the ultimate comfort food experience, serve your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken over a cloud of creamy mashed potatoes, buttery pasta noodles, or fluffy rice—any of these options soak up the sauce like a dream. A simple green salad or a quick side of roasted veggies is the perfect companion, giving you brightness and crunch alongside the decadence.
Creative Ways to Present
Think outside the bowl! Shred the chicken and tuck it into soft toasted hoagie rolls for a messy, melty sandwich, or slice it up to layer on top of garlic focaccia. Hosting a dinner party? Serve the chicken family-style in a big, beautiful dish with all the sauce and a scattering of colorful herbs—it’s guaranteed to turn heads.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have some Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken left (lucky you!), simply let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Pop it in the fridge, and it’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 days, ready for easy lunches or speedy weeknight dinners.
Freezing
This dish is a meal-prep hero! Let the chicken and sauce cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To bring Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken back to piping hot perfection, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened in the fridge, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up. You can also microwave single portions in short bursts, stirring in between for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are fantastic in this recipe—they’ll make your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken even more juicy and flavorful. Just follow the same cook times as for chicken breasts.
Is there a way to thicken the sauce?
Yes! For a thicker sauce, take the lid off your slow cooker during the last 20 minutes of cooking. You can also stir in a quick cornstarch slurry if you want that ultra-creamy texture.
Can I make Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken dairy-free?
You can experiment by using full-fat coconut milk in place of heavy cream and a dairy-free Parmesan substitute. The sauce will have a slightly different flavor but still be rich and tasty.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying out the chicken?
The key is gentle heat! Warm your leftovers slowly in a covered pan on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of extra cream or broth to keep the chicken moist and the sauce creamy.
Can I prepare Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything in the crock pot the night before, store it covered in the fridge, and start the cooker the next day. It’s a true time-saver for busy schedules or entertaining.
Final Thoughts
If you love meals that are both soul-warming and easy to pull off, give this Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken a try. I’ve fallen head over heels for its dreamy sauce and simple prep, and I know you will too—one bite and you’ll be hooked!
Print
Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a creamy and flavorful dish that will win over anyone who tries it. Tender chicken breasts are slow-cooked in a rich sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and herbs, creating a luxurious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Garnish:
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Sear the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned. Transfer the chicken to the crock pot.
- Prepare the Sauce: Whisk together chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Pour over the chicken in the crock pot and add butter.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours until chicken is tender.
- Finish and Serve: Before serving, stir the sauce gently, garnish with basil or parsley, and enjoy over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice.
Notes
- Serve over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice to soak up the creamy sauce.
- You can use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- To thicken the sauce, remove the lid during the last 20 minutes of cooking or stir in a cornstarch slurry.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
