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Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

There’s nothing quite like the comforting allure of a cleverly crafted recipe that ignites both joy and flavor. Today, we’re diving into a dish that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also garners affection from everyone at the table—Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken. This indulgent, creamy masterpiece won’t just impress your dinner guests; it’ll have them asking for more, perhaps even eloping with your culinary skills!

Why Make This Recipe

If you’re wondering why this dish stands out, here are a few compelling reasons:

Irresistible flavor: The marriage of rich cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and melty cheese creates a sauce so delicious that you’ll want to pour it over everything.
Effortless cooking: Just toss the ingredients into the slow cooker, and let time work its magic while you go about your day.
Versatile serving options: Serve it over your favorite carbohydrate, and watch it shine as a centerpiece at any meal—be it dinner parties or a cozy family gathering.

Making Marry Me Chicken at Home

If the name alone hasn’t captured your heart, the creamy, dreamy essence of this dish will. Preparing Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is simple and delightful, perfect for busy days when you crave an exquisite meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Here’s how to bring this culinary wonder to life.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin your cooking adventure by patting dry 1.5 to 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. For even cooking, butterfly thicker breasts or use a meat mallet to pound them to about 1-inch thickness. In a bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, and ½ teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning. Generously season the chicken on both sides to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken (Optional)
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. If you have the time, searing the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden-brown will enhance the flavor! Transfer the beautifully seared chicken into the slow cooker.

Step 3: Prepare the Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Grab a jar of sun-dried tomatoes and drain out the oil, saving about 2 tablespoons for later. Thinly slice the drained tomatoes and scatter them over the chicken in the slow cooker, adding a burst of flavor and color.

Step 4: Whisk the Creamy Sauce Base
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth, 1 cup of heavy cream, 2 tablespoons of the reserved sun-dried tomato oil, 1 tablespoon of dried Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Mix until smooth and creamy, creating the luxurious sauce that will coat our chicken.

Step 5: Pour Sauce Over Chicken
Marvel at your prepared sauce! Pour it evenly over the chicken breasts and those delightful sun-dried tomatoes in the slow cooker. Make sure the chicken is well coated for maximum flavor penetration.

Step 6: Slow Cook
Cover your slow cooker and let the magic happen! Cook on low for 3 to 4 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is fork-tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Cooking on low is recommended for the best flavor infusion.

Step 7: Incorporate Cream Cheese and Parmesan
Once your chicken is cooked to perfection, it’s time for the stars of the show—the cream cheese and Parmesan. Add 4 ounces of cubed softened cream cheese and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the slow cooker. Stir gently until everything melts into a smooth, rich sauce. Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary; this is your moment to shine as a chef!

Step 8: Add Fresh Spinach
Next up, introduce 2 to 3 cups of fresh baby spinach into the slow cooker. This vibrant green addition not only boosts the nutrition but also adds a lovely pop of color. Stir until the spinach is wilted and tender-crisp, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 9: Shred or Serve Whole
Now, retrieve those juicy chicken breasts. You can shred them using two forks and return the shredded chicken to the sauce for easy serving or serve them whole—it’s entirely your choice!

Step 10: Garnish and Serve
Ready for the finale? Ladle generous portions of chicken and sauce onto your plates, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a finishing touch. This dish shines best when served over cooked pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or with a side of crusty bread.

Storage Tips for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

If you find yourself with leftovers, no worries! Here’s how to keep your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken fresh:

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days at 40°F (4°C).
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Just remember to let it cool completely before sealing.
Reheat: Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Serving Ideas for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

The versatility of Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is one of its winning attributes. Here are some fabulous ways to enjoy this delicious dish:

Pasta Delight: Serve it over a bed of al dente pasta, allowing every strand to soak up the creamy sauce. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan will elevate this dish even further.
Savory Rice: A fluffy rice base is another excellent option. The chicken and sauce meld beautifully with the grains, creating a comforting combination.
Mashed Potatoes: Who can resist creamy mashed potatoes topped with this luscious chicken and sauce? It’s a hearty meal perfect for any occasion.
Crusty Bread: For a lighter touch, serve with crusty artisan bread. Use it to scoop up the sauce for a deliciously satisfying bite.

Tips to Make Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

To ensure your dish stands out, consider these quick tips:

Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes for a flavor boost.
If you’re short on time, skip the searing step, but searing adds an extra depth of flavor.
For a low-carb alternative, serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Experiment with herbs such as thyme or basil for a personal touch.
Don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings based on your preference—this is your dish!

Variations or Substitutions

If you want to customize your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken, here are some delicious alternatives:

Chicken Thighs: Prefer a more tender, juicy option? Substitute chicken thighs for breasts. They stay moist during slow cooking and add richness.
Vegetable Medley: Add more veggies by including bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms alongside the chicken for a colorful and nutritious boost.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Absolutely! You can prep the chicken and sauce a day in advance and refrigerate them. When you’re ready, pour everything into the slow cooker and cook as directed.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes! Chicken thighs add more moisture and are fantastic in this recipe. Just ensure they are cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Q: How do I make it spicier?
A: To increase the heat, you can add more red pepper flakes or incorporate diced jalapeños into the sauce. Adjust based on your spice tolerance!

Nutritional Information

While enjoying this delicious meal, it’s essential to be conscious of the nutrition it offers. Here’s a quick overview:

Calories: Approx. 400-500 per serving (depending on serving method)
Protein: High protein content from chicken and cheese.
Fat: A rich source of fats from cream and cheese, approximately 25-30g per serving.
Carbohydrates: Minimal carbs unless served with pasta or rice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken, consider these common pitfalls to ensure your dish is nothing short of delightful:

Overcooking: Slow cook at the right temperature and don’t exceed the recommended cooking times to maintain tender chicken.
Skipping Searing: Though optional, searing brings out flavors. Skipping it might result in a less complex taste.
Insufficient seasoning: Don’t shy away from properly seasoning your chicken and sauce. Taste testing is key!

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a true crowd-pleaser, marrying rich flavors with convenience. This dish is perfect for any night of the week, ensuring a harmonious blend of ingredients that may indeed inspire a romantic evening. So gather your loved ones, enjoy your creation, and perhaps prepare for proposals—whether it’s for dinner or more personal commitments!