There’s something magical about a recipe that brings everyone to the table with smiles and eager appetites. For me, that magic is the Marry Me Chicken Crockpot recipe. It’s become a staple in my meal rotation, and trust me, once you try it, you’ll see why it’s earned such a charming name.
Why I Fell in Love with Marry Me Chicken Crockpot
I stumbled upon the Marry Me Chicken Crockpot recipe during a hectic week when I needed an easy slow cooker chicken dish that wouldn’t require much fuss. I wanted something that felt special but didn’t have me glued to the kitchen. That’s when I found this gem among chicken crockpot recipes.
The blend of tender chicken breast, creamy sauce, and the rich flavor of sundried tomatoes had me hooked from the first bite. Not only is it one of the top dinner recipes in my book, but it’s also an effortless way to make a meal that feels like a warm embrace.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we get cooking, let’s gather all the ingredients for our Marry Me Chicken Crockpot dish:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (you can also use chicken tender if you prefer)
- 1 cup of sundried tomato sauce (or chopped sundried tomatoes)
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (adjust to your taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Marry Me Chicken Crockpot
1. Preparing The Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breast with salt and pepper. If you’re using crockpot chicken breast recipes regularly, you’ll know that a little seasoning goes a long way in slow cooker dishes.
2. Setting Up the Crockpot
Place the seasoned chicken into your crockpot. This is why I love easy crockpot dinners – you just layer everything in, and you’re off to the races.
3. Making the Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together the sundried tomato sauce, heavy cream, chicken broth, minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Pour this luscious mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.
4. Cooking Time
Set your crockpot to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking process ensures you get that ridiculously tender chicken we all crave in our slow cooker chicken recipes.
5. Serving It Up
Once cooked, garnish with fresh basil or parsley. I like to serve my Marry Me Chicken Crockpot over pasta or with a side of steamed veggies for a complete meal.
Pro Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken Crockpot
- Sear the Chicken First: If you have a few extra minutes, searing the chicken in a pan before placing it in the crockpot can add an extra depth of flavor.
- Add Some Veggies: Throw in some spinach or mushrooms to bulk up the dish and sneak in some greens.
- Adjust the Heat: If you like it spicy, add more red pepper flakes. For a milder version, you can omit them entirely.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley not only adds color but also enhances the flavor.
Why This Recipe Works
The beauty of the Marry Me Chicken Crockpot recipe lies in its simplicity and flavor. It’s one of those easy slow cooker chicken dishes that doesn’t require fancy ingredients or complicated steps. Yet, the result is a mouthwatering meal that tastes like it took hours of labor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add more flavor and stay moist during the long cooking process.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can make the Marry Me Chicken Crockpot ahead of time and freeze it. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.
What sides go well with this dish?
Rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. Don’t forget a side salad or steamed veggies for a healthy balance.
Incorporating Marry Me Chicken Crockpot into Your Meal Rotation
This dish has become a regular in my meal planning, especially on busy days when I need a no-fuss dinner. It’s one of those crockpot chicken recipes easy enough for weekdays but impressive enough for guests.
I remember the first time I made the Marry Me Chicken Crockpot recipe for a family gathering. The aroma filled the house, and everyone kept sneaking into the kitchen to see what was cooking. By the time dinner was served, there wasn’t a scrap left!
Health Benefits of Marry Me Chicken Crockpot
While it’s undeniably delicious, this dish also packs some health perks:
- Lean Protein: Chicken breast is a great source of lean protein.
- Lycopene from Tomatoes: Sundried tomatoes are rich in antioxidants.
- Calcium: The creamy sauce provides a good dose of calcium.
It’s a satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on health, making it one of my favorite health dinner recipes.
Alternatives and Variations
If you’re a fan of the Instant Pot, you can adapt this recipe for a quicker cooking time. The flavors remain amazing, and it’s perfect for those nights when you need dinner on the table fast.
Conclusion
The Marry Me Chicken Crockpot recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a way to bring warmth and joy to your dining table without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re new to crock pot cooking or a seasoned pro, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
So, grab your crockpot and give this recipe a try. Who knows? It might just win over someone’s heart like it did in my family.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Chicken breasts
- Cream of chicken soup
- Cheddar cheese
- Garlic
- Onion
- Seasonings like salt, pepper, and paprika
Internal Links
- If you enjoyed this, you might also love our 20 easy dinner recipes delicious affordable.
- For more party ideas, see our how to make iced matcha latte at home.
- For more delicious recipes and baking tips, check out BBC Good Food.