Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Easy and Delicious Recipe

Looking to impress with a simple yet stunning meal? Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is your answer! This easy recipe brings together juicy chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy goodness, all in one dish. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds. Let me show you how to create a meal that’s not just delicious but might just lead to I do!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 1 cup sundried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained and chopped)

– 1 cup heavy cream

Seasoning & Additional Ingredients

– 1 cup chicken broth

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– 1 teaspoon dried basil

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

– Parmesan cheese for sprinkling (optional)

In this recipe, the main ingredients shine through with simplicity. The chicken breasts offer a tender base, while the sundried tomatoes bring a rich, tangy flavor. Heavy cream adds a creamy texture that ties everything together.

For seasoning, I use garlic powder and onion powder. They give a nice depth without being too strong. Dried basil and oregano add a hint of warmth, perfect for a cozy meal. Red pepper flakes are optional but they give a nice kick! Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to your taste.

Fresh basil leaves are a lovely touch at the end. They add color and a burst of freshness. Parmesan cheese is optional but really takes this dish to the next level. It adds extra flavor and creaminess.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to a wonderful meal that’s sure to impress!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

To start, season your chicken breasts. Use salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, and dried oregano. Sprinkle these on both sides. This simple step adds flavor to the chicken.

Next, place the seasoned chicken in the crockpot. Lay the breasts flat at the bottom in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly.

Adding Flavor

Now it’s time to add sundried tomatoes. Chop them if they aren’t already. Evenly sprinkle the chopped tomatoes over the chicken. They will give the dish a rich taste.

In a bowl, mix the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir until they blend well. Pour this mixture over the chicken and tomatoes in the crockpot.

If you like heat, add red pepper flakes on top. This is optional but adds a nice kick.

Cooking the Dish

Cover the crockpot and set it to cook. For low heat, cook for 4 to 6 hours. If you choose high heat, cook for 2 to 3 hours. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked.

Finally, decide how to serve the chicken. You can shred it in the sauce for pulled chicken. Or, serve the chicken breasts whole with sauce on top. This choice depends on your preference.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting Flavor

To adjust the flavors in your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken, start with the seasonings. You can add more garlic powder or onion powder if you want a stronger taste. If you love herbs, fresh basil or oregano can boost the flavor even more. Fresh herbs add a bright taste, while dried herbs are convenient and still work well.

Cooking Tips

Using chicken broth is key. It makes the dish moist and rich. Always choose a good quality broth. This makes a big difference in taste. To ensure your chicken stays tender, avoid overcooking it. If you see it cooking for too long, your chicken can dry out. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with sides like rice or pasta. These absorb the sauce and taste great together. You can also serve it with a fresh salad for a nice crunch. For garnishes, fresh basil leaves add color and flavor. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese gives a tasty touch too.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

If you want to change things up, you can swap sundried tomatoes. Try using fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers. Both add a nice flavor and color to the dish. You can also skip the cream for a dairy-free option. Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead. These options keep your dish creamy and rich without dairy.

Different Cooking Methods

You can make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken in different ways. If you have an Instant Pot, it’s quick and easy. Use the sauté function first. Brown the chicken and add your sauce. Then, cook on high pressure for 10-12 minutes. Let it naturally release for about 10 minutes.

If you prefer the oven, that works too. Preheat to 375°F. Place the chicken in a baking dish, add the sauce and tomatoes. Cover with foil and bake for 30-40 minutes. Check that the chicken is fully cooked.

Flavor Enhancements

Want more flavor? Add some vegetables! Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms work great. Just toss them in the crockpot with the chicken.

You can also try different spices. For a smoky taste, add paprika. For a zesty kick, squeeze some lemon juice on top before serving. These small changes can make your dish unique and exciting!

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken fresh, you need to store it right. First, let it cool down to room temperature. Then, put it in a container with a tight lid. Use glass or plastic containers that are safe for the fridge.

– Refrigeration guidelines: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

– Proper containers for storage: Use airtight containers to prevent moisture loss.

Reheating Tips

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is key. You want to keep the chicken tender and the sauce creamy.

– Best methods for reheating: The microwave works well. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. You can also use a stovetop. Just warm it in a pan over low heat until hot.

– Maintaining flavor and texture: Add a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry. This keeps the sauce rich and tasty.

Freezing Information

If you want to save some for later, freezing works great. It keeps the flavor intact for many weeks.

– How to freeze Crockpot Marry Me Chicken: Let it cool, then pack it in freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn.

– Thawing and reheating after freezing: Thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above, adding broth if needed for moisture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken for this recipe. However, you must thaw it first. To safely thaw the chicken, place it in the fridge overnight. For a quicker method, you can run the chicken under cold water. Never thaw chicken at room temperature. Once thawed, you can season it and follow the recipe as usual.

What can I serve with Crockpot Marry Me Chicken?

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken tastes great with several side dishes. Here are some ideas:

– Steamed rice or quinoa

– Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes

– Garlic bread for a crunchy side

– A fresh green salad

– Roasted vegetables for extra color and nutrition

These sides will balance the rich flavors of the chicken.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make this recipe in advance. Prepare the chicken and sauce, then store them separately in the fridge. You can freeze the chicken too. When you’re ready to cook, just thaw it and add everything to the crockpot. This makes meal prep easy and keeps your weeknight dinners stress-free.

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken combines simple ingredients for a delicious meal. We covered the key elements: preparing chicken, adding flavor, and cooking times. You now have helpful tips to enhance flavor and explore variations. Remember to follow storage and reheating advice to enjoy leftovers. This dish is tasty, easy, and perfect for any occasion. Happy cookin