The aroma of garlic and herbs wafts through the air as you unveil your latest culinary masterpiece – the Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken. Picture this: tender chicken bathed in creamy goodness while simmering away in your trusty slow cooker. As the flavors mingle together like best friends at a reunion, you can’t help but feel excitement bubbling up inside. This is not just a meal; it’s a love letter to your taste buds.
Imagine gathering around the dinner table with your loved ones, their eyes lighting up as they take that first bite of your delectable creation. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress without breaking a sweat. Let’s dive into this delightful adventure of making Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation makes this dish a winner for any busy weeknight dinner
- Its rich flavors will leave everyone asking for seconds
- The vibrant colors and creamy sauce make it visually stunning and an instant crowd-pleaser
- Versatile enough to pair with rice or pasta, this dish fits any occasion perfectly
Sharing this recipe has brought smiles and happy bellies at countless gatherings with friends and family.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 pieces for the perfect balance of meatiness; adjust according to your crowd size.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for optimal flavor; fresh garlic elevates any dish.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Opt for oil-packed varieties; they add depth and richness to the sauce.
- Heavy Cream: For that luscious sauce texture; don’t skimp on quality here!
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate freshly for maximum flavor impact; it brings everything together beautifully.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that gives the dish character; use store-bought or homemade.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: For garnish; they provide a fresh pop of color and flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping garlic finely and measuring out all other ingredients needed for a smooth cooking experience. Preparation saves time later!
Sear the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sear each chicken breast until golden brown on both sides—about 4 minutes per side. This step locks in flavor.
Add Ingredients to the Crock Pot: Place the seared chicken into your crock pot and layer sun-dried tomatoes on top along with minced garlic and Italian seasoning. This creates an amazing flavor base.
Create the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth; pour this heavenly mixture over the layered ingredients in your crock pot.
Cook Low and Slow: Set your crock pot on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender. The aroma will have everyone asking what’s cooking!
Add Fresh Basil: Once cooked, sprinkle chopped fresh basil leaves on top before serving. It adds color and freshness to the dish.
Now gather around your table because you’re ready to serve up some love! Enjoy every bite of this flavorful meal!
You Must Know
- The Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a delightful dish that’s not just easy to make; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser
- The creamy sauce, infused with garlic and herbs, envelops the chicken perfectly, making it feel like a warm hug on a plate
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in flavor, then add the remaining ingredients for a perfect blend of taste.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different herbs or add veggies like bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to retain creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality chicken for the best flavor; it makes all the difference in this dish
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste; don’t be afraid to experiment!
- Letting the dish rest enhances flavors beautifully, so patience pays off
I still remember the first time I made this dish; my friends declared me a culinary genius, and I felt like a rock star!
FAQ
What can I serve with Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken?
Serve it over pasta or rice to soak up that delicious sauce perfectly.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results.
How do I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an exciting kick!
Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish that impresses with tender chicken and a rich sauce. Perfect for busy nights or special gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Chop garlic and measure all ingredients.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sear chicken breasts in olive oil until golden brown (about 4 minutes per side).
- Place seared chicken in the slow cooker and top with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning.
- Whisk together heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; pour over chicken.
- Set the crock pot on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender.
- Sprinkle fresh basil on top before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 440
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
