Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a delightful dish that promises to impress anyone who tries it. This recipe features tender chicken breasts cooked slowly in a creamy sundried tomato sauce, making it perfect for date nights or family dinners. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this meal is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few minutes of prep time, you can set your slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sundried tomatoes and creamy sauce creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this dish over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special celebration, this dish fits right in.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the creamy texture and savory taste of this chicken.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. A few key pieces of equipment will help make this recipe seamless and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for slow cooking, which makes the chicken tender and flavorful.
• Skillet: Optional but useful for browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker, enhancing flavor.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements, crucial for perfect results.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe space to prepare your ingredients efficiently.

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 grape juice + ½ cup water OR 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
• 4 tbsp diced sun-dried tomatoes (drained)
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp garlic granules
• 1 tsp chicken bouillon (if using 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

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

1. Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet or directly in the slow cooker if it has that function.
2. Place chicken breast side down into the skillet until golden brown.

Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker

1. Flip the chicken breasts over.
2. Pour in white grape juice mixed with water or chicken broth.
3. Add paprika, garlic granules, and sun-dried tomatoes.

Step 4: Cook Slowly

1. Cover and cook on LOW setting for 90 minutes to 2 hours until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Thicken Sauce (Optional)

1. If desired, mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry.
2. Stir slurry into sauce ten minutes before cooking ends.

Step 6: Add Creaminess

1. Move chicken to one side of the slow cooker.
2. Stir in sour cream or heavy cream until well combined.
3. Mix in grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.

Step 7: Serve

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

How to Serve Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Whether you’re looking for something light or hearty, there are plenty of options to elevate this delicious meal.

Over Pasta

• Serve the chicken over your favorite pasta for a comforting dish. The creamy sauce will cling well to spaghetti or fettuccine.

With Rice

• Pair the chicken with fluffy white or brown rice. The rice will soak up the rich sauce, making each bite flavorful.

Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes provide a great base for the chicken and sauce. Add some herbs or garlic to enhance the flavor.

On a Bed of Spinach

• For a lighter option, serve the chicken on a bed of fresh spinach. The warmth of the chicken will slightly wilt the spinach, adding texture.

In Wraps

• Create wraps using tortillas filled with the chicken and sauce. Add fresh veggies for crunch and flavor.

With Crusty Bread

• Offer slices of crusty bread on the side to mop up the delicious sauce. This makes for an excellent addition to any meal.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

To achieve the best results with your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken, consider these helpful tips:

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley or basil can significantly enhance flavor compared to dried herbs.
• Don’t skip browning: If possible, brown the chicken before placing it in the slow cooker. This adds depth to the overall flavor.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper levels before serving to ensure balanced flavors.
• Add vegetables: Consider tossing in vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms during cooking for added nutrition and texture.
• Monitor cooking time: Ensure you check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• Let it rest: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking lets flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Complement your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken with these delightful side dishes that enhance its flavors and textures:

1. Garlic Bread
   Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, garlic bread adds an irresistible crunch.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables offers sweetness and color while balancing richness.

3. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad with cucumber and cherry tomatoes brings freshness to your plate.

4. Steamed Asparagus
   Crisp-tender asparagus adds a pop of color and nutrients; drizzle with lemon juice for brightness.

5. Cauliflower Mash
   A low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash pairs well with creamy sauces.

6. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast; its crunch complements the tender chicken perfectly.

7. Grilled Zucchini Slices
   Lightly grilled zucchini is simple yet delicious, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

8. Baked Sweet Potatoes
   Sweet potatoes offer natural sweetness that pairs well with savory dishes like this one.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken, avoiding common pitfalls can make a significant difference in the outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) and remove it promptly.
• Neglecting seasoning: Skipping or under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Always taste your sauce and adjust seasonings before serving.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Poor quality sundried tomatoes or broth can affect the dish’s flavor. Always opt for fresh and high-quality products.
• Not allowing for resting time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving for maximum juiciness.
• Ignoring customization options: Sticking strictly to the recipe might limit creativity. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for more flavor and nutrition.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

• Freeze in portioned containers or freezer bags.
• Best if used within 2-3 months.

Reheating Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through (about 20-30 minutes).
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in short intervals until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken that may help enhance your cooking experience:

Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by about 30 minutes to ensure they cook thoroughly.

What sides pair well with Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken?

This dish goes wonderfully with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. You can also serve it with a side salad for added freshness.

How can I customize my Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken?

Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms. Additionally, you can switch up the herbs and spices based on your preference.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

While this recipe uses chicken, you can substitute it with hearty vegetables or plant-based proteins like tofu for a vegetarian option.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the flavor profile. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike—try it today!