Name: Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 480 min
Total time: 495 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.5 teaspoon onion powder; 0.25 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 1.5 cups chicken broth; 3 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 cup heavy cream (Mix in cautiously to avoid curdling); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1.5 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper; 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 0.5 teaspoon paprika; 0.33 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, drained; 0.5 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 6-8 pieces fresh basil leaves, chopped

Introduction to Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

If you're looking for a dish that promises to impress, Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a recipe destined to steal hearts. Its romantic name suggests that it's not just another weeknight meal; it's an invitation to a delicious journey. It’s said that a couple who first tasted this creamy, savory delight ended their meal with a proposal—hence, the name!

But what truly makes this recipe stand out? It harmonizes tender chicken with a rich sun-dried tomato cream sauce, creating an aromatic profile that'll make anyone swoon. Plus, the beauty of making it in a crock pot means the flavors meld beautifully while you focus on other things—perfect for today’s busy lifestyles!

For more inspiration, you can explore similar recipes or cooking tips at resources like The Country Cook. This incredible dish reflects a blend of Italian influences and American comfort food that’s sure to meet your needs, whether you're planning a cozy dinner for two or a festive gathering with friends.

Ready to see how this magical meal comes together? Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Creating your very own Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is both simple and satisfying, with a delightful blend of flavors that will have everyone at the table clamoring for more. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

For the chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter

For the sauce:

1 ½ cups chicken broth
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1 cup heavy cream (make sure to read the notes for best practices!)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
Additional salt and black pepper (½ teaspoon each)
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
½ teaspoon paprika
⅓ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, drained
½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
6-8 fresh basil leaves, chopped

Feel free to check out sources like Target for high-quality ingredients to make your dish stand out! Whether you’re preparing dinner for loved ones or simply treating yourself, these ingredients will set the stage for your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken. Enjoy the journey and the flavors that follow!

Preparing Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Cooking up a delightful meal doesn't have to be complicated, and that’s where Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken comes into play! This creamy, savory dish is perfect for impressing loved ones or enjoying a cozy night in. Here’s a straightforward guide to get you started!

Season the Chicken

Begin by seasoning your boneless, skinless chicken breasts. In a small bowl, mix together:

½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Generously season both sides of the chicken with this mixture. This step is crucial because it sets the flavor baseline for your meal. A good kick of seasoning makes everything better, right?

Sear the Chicken Breasts

Next, heat up a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter melts and starts to bubble, it’s time to sear those chicken breasts. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown, but remember—this isn’t about cooking them all the way through. You just want that lovely color and flavor to get started! Once you’re done, turn off the heat but keep that tasty oil and butter in the pan.

Prepare the Creamy Sauce

Now, for the heart of the dish! In a bowl, whisk together 1½ cups of chicken broth and 3 tablespoons of cornstarch until smooth. Then, pour this mixture into your slow cooker. It brings a rich depth that you’ll love.

Next, stir in:

1 cup heavy cream (remember the notes on preventing lumpiness!)
4 cloves of minced garlic
1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
½ teaspoon paprika

Then add ⅓ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes—it adds that extra zest!

Combine Chicken and Sauce in the Slow Cooker

Carefully place your seared chicken breasts into the slow cooker. Drizzle that flavorful oil and butter over the chicken, ensuring every piece gets that rich taste.

Cooking Time and Temperature

Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours. Pro tip: Resist the urge to lift the lid during cooking. It’s tempting, but keeping the heat in will guarantee perfectly tender chicken. If you have larger breasts, they may take a bit longer, so don’t rush the process!

Once done, take the chicken out and whisk in ½ cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese. Place the chicken back in the pot, stir around so it gets all that cheesy goodness, and finish off with some chopped fresh basil before serving.

And there you have it! A gorgeous Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken that’s set to impress! Enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite, and don’t forget to ask your loved ones if they’d like to serve it again.

Variations on Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Add a twist with different herbs

Enhance your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken with a variety of herbs! Swap out traditional Italian seasoning for fresh thyme, rosemary, or even a touch of dill for a bright, fresh flavor. You can also experiment with herbs like tarragon or oregano. Feeling adventurous? Try adding a bit of fresh chopped parsley at the end for a vibrant finish. Each herb will bring a unique flavor profile, allowing you to customize this dish to your liking.

Make it lighter with chicken alternatives

Looking to lighten things up? Consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier texture. Alternatively, try this recipe with turkey or even plant-based protein like tofu or seitan. These options can provide a lower calorie count without sacrificing flavor, making your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken a versatile dish for all dietary preferences. If you want to reduce calories further, you can even substitute half the heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a creamy texture that won’t weigh you down!

Cooking Tips for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

To make the most of your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken, think about a few simple yet effective tips. First, searing the chicken before it goes into the crock pot isn’t just for show; it imparts a wonderful flavor and locks in juices, leading to a more tender result. Using high-quality chicken broth can elevate your sauce, so consider a homemade option if you have time.

Don’t forget to add your heavy cream later in the cooking process to prevent curdling; try whisking it in during the last 30 minutes for the best texture. If you’re pressed for time, you can use a stovetop version instead!

Serving Suggestions for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

When it comes to Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken, serving it right can make all the difference! Here are some delicious serving suggestions that will elevate your dish.

Pairing with Sides

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich sauce pairs perfectly with buttery mashed potatoes that soak up all the flavors.
Steamed Veggies: Fresh asparagus or green beans add a nice crunch and color to your plate.
Garlic Bread: Who can resist the allure of garlic bread? It’s perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce.

Salad & Beverage Options

Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty chicken.
Non-Alcoholic Lemonade: Complement your meal with a chilled glass of lemonade, which cuts through the richness beautifully.

Adding these components not only enhances your dining experience but also invites everyone to savor every flavorful bite of your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken!

Time Breakdown for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Preparation Time
Get your ingredients ready in about 15 minutes. This includes seasoning the chicken, chopping garlic, and prepping the sauce.

Cooking Time
Place everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic for 6 to 8 hours on low. It's the ultimate hands-off cooking experience – just set it and forget it!

Total Time
From start to finish, you’ll need about 6 hours and 15 minutes to enjoy your delicious Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken. Perfect for busy days when you still want a scrumptious homemade meal!

Don’t forget to check out The Country Cook for more tips and an in-depth walkthrough of the process!

Nutritional Facts for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Understanding the nutritional profile of Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken can help you make informed decisions about your meals. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Calories

Each serving contains approximately 688 calories, making it a hearty choice. It's perfect for a filling dinner after a long day.

Protein

This recipe packs in about 56 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the chicken. Protein is essential for muscle repair and overall health, making this dish a nutritious option.

Sodium

Keep in mind that it has around 1466 milligrams of sodium per serving. While flavor is key in this recipe, it's good to balance it with lower-sodium meals throughout the day.

Enjoy crafting this delightful dish while keeping these nutritional insights in mind! Want more tips? Check out resources like the USDA FoodData Central for in-depth nutritional stats and food safety.

FAQs about Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using frozen chicken breasts is convenient when you're short on time. Just be sure to adjust your cooking time. You’ll want to cook on low for about 8-10 hours instead of the standard 6-8 hours for thawed chicken. This ensures the chicken cooks through properly while maintaining its juicy texture.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you're looking to lighten things up a bit, there are several alternatives to heavy cream you can consider. Full-fat coconut milk or evaporated milk can add a creamy texture without the heaviness. For a healthier option, try half-and-half or a combination of Greek yogurt and milk for a tangy flavor. Just note that these substitutes may affect the overall flavor slightly.

How do I know when the chicken is done?
The best way to tell if your chicken is done is by using a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don't have one, check that the chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear. Remember, your slow cooker retains heat well, so avoid lifting the lid too often to keep the cooking process steady.

Conclusion on Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and vibrant flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights or an intimate dinner, it's sure to impress. Remember, with a little patience, this slow cooker recipe will become a go-to for many occasions. Enjoy every bite!