Introduction to Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Are you searching for a dinner recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds? Look no further than Crockpot Marry Me Chicken! This delightful dish combines juicy chicken breasts with a rich, creamy sauce, making it a comforting favorite for busy nights. The secret to its popularity? It’s not just delicious; it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With minimal hands-on time, you can set it up in your slow cooker and enjoy the rest of your evening.
This dish gets its name from the notion that it’s so delicious, it might just inspire a proposal! The blend of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian herbs simmering together creates an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen. Plus, it's versatile enough to pair with pasta, rice, or even your favorite crusty bread.
More than just a meal, Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, date nights, or gatherings. It’s the kind of dish that not only satisfies hunger but also warms the heart. For more culinary inspiration, you might enjoy checking out additional recipes that celebrate flavors you love on Little Sunny Kitchen. So grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into making this heartwarming meal!
Ingredients for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Essential ingredients for a creamy delight
Creating your own Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is incredibly rewarding and surprisingly simple! Here are the essential ingredients you'll need:
- Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds) serve as the main protein.
- Kosher Salt and Ground Black Pepper: For seasoning, enhancing the chicken's natural flavors.
- Olive Oil and Unsalted Butter: These provide a flavorsome base and richness to the dish.
- Chicken Stock: 1 cup keeps everything moist and flavorful.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced will fill your kitchen with a tantalizing aroma.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: About ½ cup adds a burst of flavor and a beautiful color.
- Heavy Cream and Parmesan Cheese: Combine for that luxurious, creamy sauce that ties the dish together.
Optional ingredients for extra flavor
If you're looking to amp up the flavor profile of your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken, consider adding these optional ingredients:
- Crushed Red Pepper: Add a touch for some heat, depending on your taste.
- Dried Oregano and Thyme: These dried herbs lend a wonderful Italian flair.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: Use for garnish, bringing a fresh note to the final dish.
These ingredients come together to create a comforting, satisfying meal that's perfect any night of the week. Can't wait for you to try it!
Preparing Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Making Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is not only simple but also an adventure in flavors! This recipe will take you on a culinary journey with a deliciously creamy, garlicky sauce that'll have you dreaming of your next meal. Ready to impress your guests—or even just treat yourself? Let's dive into the preparation!
Gather your ingredients
Before you kick things off, it’s important to assemble everything you need. Here’s a quick rundown:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Kosher salt and black pepper
- Olive oil and unsalted butter
- Chicken stock
- Cornstarch for thickening
- Fresh garlic, a must for that savory flavor
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Italian herbs: oregano and thyme
- Heavy cream and freshly grated parmesan for that rich finish
- Fresh basil for garnish
Having all these ingredients handy will help streamline your cooking process and make it more enjoyable.
Season and sear the chicken
To start, season your chicken breasts generously with kosher salt and black pepper. In a skillet, heat up a tablespoon of olive oil along with a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once your skillet is sizzling, sear the chicken for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re lightly golden. This not only locks in the juices but adds a beautiful color that makes the dish look restaurant-worthy!
Mix the flavorful broth
In a mixing bowl, whisk together a cup of chicken stock with a tablespoon of cornstarch, minced garlic, and your seasonings—don’t forget the crushed red pepper, if you like it spicy! This broth will turn out deeply flavorful and will be the base of your sauce. Pour this mixture over the seared chicken in the slow cooker, making sure each piece is well-coated.
Combine everything in the slow cooker
Now comes the fun part! Toss the chopped sun-dried tomatoes on top of the chicken, and cover your slow cooker. It's time to set it and forget it! You can cook your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken on low for about 3-4 hours or on high for 1.5-2 hours, depending on your schedule. Just make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Cook until tender and flavorful
As your chicken cooks, the aromatic goodness will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone in! The long cook time ensures that the chicken becomes tender and absorbs all those delicious flavors.
Finish with cream and parmesan
Once the chicken is beautifully cooked, transfer it to a plate and keep it warm. Now, stir in the warmed heavy cream and parmesan cheese into the liquid left in the slow cooker. This will create a creamy sauce that’s out of this world! Return the chicken to the pot, spoon that divine sauce over it, and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil for a burst of color and flavor before serving.
Now your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is ready to serve! Enjoy every bite and watch everyone fall in love with this hearty dish.
Variations on Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
If you’re excited about the possibilities of Crockpot Marry Me Chicken, you’re in luck! Here are a couple of delicious variations that will keep your meals interesting.
Creamy Mushroom Crockpot Chicken
For mushroom lovers, adding sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker enhances the dish's earthy flavors. Sauté the mushrooms briefly before adding them to the crockpot along with the chicken. The result? A rich, creamy sauce that’s irresistible over pasta or rice. You can also check out this mushroom nutrition guide for added inspiration on how to incorporate this fabulous ingredient into your meals.
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken with Spinach
Boost the nutritional value by tossing in fresh spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will wilt the spinach beautifully while infusing the dish with vibrant color. Imagine serving this comforting meal with a side of garlic bread and a crisp salad! Fancy a bit more heat? Try adding some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
These variations add unique twists to the classic Crockpot Marry Me Chicken, ensuring it never goes out of style!
Cooking tips and notes for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Importance of searing chicken
Searing the chicken breasts before adding them to the slow cooker is a crucial step for maximum flavor and texture. When you sear the chicken in olive oil and butter, you create a beautiful golden crust that elevates the dish. Not to mention, this process helps lock in the juices, making your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken even more succulent. If you're short on time, you can skip this step, but just know that you might miss out on some delicious depth of flavor.
Tips on using sun-dried tomatoes
Sun-dried tomatoes are a star ingredient in this recipe, significantly contributing to the overall richness. Opt for the ones packed in oil, as they’re more flavorful and tender. Chop them finely to distribute the flavor evenly throughout your dish. For an extra burst of taste, consider adding a splash of the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes into your broth — it imparts an incredible depth and enhances the creamy sauce. This simple tweak can transform your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken into a gourmet experience!
Serving suggestions for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Pairing with pasta or rice
When it comes to serving Crockpot Marry Me Chicken, you can't go wrong with a comforting base like pasta or rice. A bed of fettuccine or creamy risotto pairs beautifully with the rich sauce. If you prefer something lighter, opt for fluffy quinoa or a whole grain rice to enhance the dish’s flavor without feeling heavy.
Perfect sides to complement the dish
To round out your meal, consider adding some vibrant vegetable sides. Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus not only add color but also bring freshness to the table. A simple side salad with a lemon vinaigrette can also balance the creaminess of the chicken. Looking for something heartier? Garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser, ready to soak up that luscious sauce!
By pairing Crockpot Marry Me Chicken with these suggestions, you’ll create a well-rounded dinner that’s sure to impress your guests!
Time Breakdown for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Preparation Time
The prep time for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a quick 15 minutes. This involves seasoning the chicken, searing it for that extra flavor, and whisking together the savory broth ingredients. It’s an easy step that pays off with deliciousness later!
Cooking Time
Once everything is prepped, you can relax while the slow cooker does its magic. The cooking time ranges from 2 hours on high to 3-4 hours on low. Either way, your home will fill with mouthwatering aromas!
Total Time
In total, you’ll be looking at around 2 hours and 15 minutes from start to finish. With such a hands-off recipe, it’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights or when you want an effortless dinner that feels gourmet!
For the full recipe, don’t forget to check out Diana’s blog. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Facts for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
When it comes to hearty, yet nutritious meals, Crockpot Marry Me Chicken checks all the boxes! Here’s a quick breakdown of its nutritional values to keep you informed while enjoying each comforting bite:
Calories
Each serving of Crockpot Marry Me Chicken contains approximately 339 calories, making it a satisfying choice for dinner without going overboard.
Protein
Packed with flavor and nutrients, this dish offers about 23 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the tender chicken breasts. Protein plays a key role in muscle repair and overall health.
Sodium
With 691 mg of sodium per serving, it's essential to enjoy this savory dish mindfully, especially if you’re watching your salt intake. Pair it with fresh vegetables or whole grains to balance it out!
For a more in-depth understanding of nutritional values, check out resources like MyFitnessPal or USDA's FoodData Central. They offer comprehensive nutritional databases that can aid in meal planning and health tracking. Enjoy creating your delicious Crockpot Marry Me Chicken!
FAQs about Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts in your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken recipe. Just be sure to increase the cooking time. Cook on low for about 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This will ensure it's tender and juicy.
How to store and reheat leftovers?
Leftover Crockpot Marry Me Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the sauce creamy and prevent it from drying out.
What can I substitute for cream if I want a lighter version?
If you're looking for a lighter version of your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken, consider using Greek yogurt or a mixture of milk and cornstarch as a substitute. Both options will give you a creamy texture without the full fat content of heavy cream.
For more tips, check the USDA's food storage guidelines. Happy cooking!
Conclusion on Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is the perfect meal for those busy weeknights. With its creamy, flavorful sauce and tender chicken, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve it over your favorite pasta or rice for an effortlessly romantic dinner. Try it out tonight, and you might just end up proposing!
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Equipment
- 5 or 6 quart slow cooker
- skillet
- whisk
Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken breasts boneless and skinless (about 2 pounds)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (14 g)
- 1 cup chicken stock (240 ml)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 0.75 teaspoon crushed red pepper optional
- 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.25 teaspoon dried thyme
- 0.5 cup Sundried tomatoes packed in oil, chopped (75 g)
- 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml, warmed slightly)
- 0.5 cup parmesan cheese grated (43 g)
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves chopped
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat, then sear chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly golden. Transfer to the slow cooker along with any leftover butter and juices from the skillet.
- In a bowl, whisk chicken stock with cornstarch, garlic, crushed red pepper, oregano, and thyme. Pour the mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Top each chicken breast with the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1.5-2 hours, until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove chicken to a plate and keep warm. Stir heavy cream and parmesan into the hot liquid in the slow cooker until smooth. Return chicken to the sauce, spoon sauce over the top, and let rest for 5-10 minutes on ‘warm.’
- Garnish with basil before serving.
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