Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken: A Creamy & Savory Delight That’s Irresistible 🍗✨💍
1. Introduction
If you’re craving a dish that’s both easy to prepare and irresistibly creamy, look no further than Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken. This savory chicken recipe has gained popularity for its rich flavors and effortless cooking process, perfect for busy weeknights or impressive dinner dates. The tender, juicy chicken is coated in a luscious sauce that’s bursting with flavor, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
2. Ingredients for Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Optional: red chili flakes for a spicy kick
3. How to Make Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken: Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation and Seasoning
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step locks in flavor and keeps the chicken tender during slow cooking.
Slow Cooking the Chicken
Transfer the seared chicken to your slow cooker. In a bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, thyme, and sun-dried tomatoes. Pour this sauce mixture over the chicken. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is fork-tender.
Finishing Touches
Once cooked, gently shred the chicken in the sauce using two forks. For a richer flavor, you can sprinkle additional Parmesan on top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and red chili flakes if you like a spicy touch. Serve this creamy chicken over pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short bursts or warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months; just thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.
5. Serving Suggestions & Pairings
The creamy flavor of Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken pairs beautifully with various sides. Serve it over hot cooked pasta like fettuccine or linguine, or spoon it atop fluffy rice or buttery mashed potatoes. For a low-carb option, enjoy it with steamed vegetables or a crisp side salad. For an added touch, sprinkle extra Parmesan or fresh herbs on top.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, and use dairy-free Parmesan alternatives. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
How long does it take to prepare and cook?
The prep takes about 10-15 minutes, and cooking in the slow cooker takes 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high, making it an easy, slow-cooker chicken recipe that fits into busy schedules.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor. Adjust the cooking time to about 6 hours on low.
What variations can I try?
Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition or spice it up with red pepper flakes or hot sauce. For a cheesy twist, sprinkle with shredded mozzarella before serving.
7. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Perfect for quick reheats or side dishes to complement your chicken dinner, making the whole meal more efficient.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: This durable cookware set ensures you sear and cook your chicken flawlessly with minimal sticking.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer: An excellent appliance for grilling or crisping up vegetables to serve alongside your creamy chicken.
Investing in these kitchen tools can streamline your cooking process and elevate your dish-making experience.
8. Conclusion
Made effortlessly in the slow cooker, Marry Me Chicken is that perfect combination of easy, creamy, and savory—ideal for impressing family or guests without hours of effort. With its rich flavor and tender texture, this dish will become a staple for those cozy nights or romantic dinners. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home!
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Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken
A savory and creamy slow cooker chicken dish with a rich tomato and herb sauce, perfect for family dinners.
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, mix heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour sauce over chicken.
- Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until chicken is tender.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- Serve with pasta, rice, or vegetables for a complete meal.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 420 Kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 130mg