Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Picture this: a cozy evening at home, the house is filled with the delightful aromas wafting from your kitchen, and your family or loved ones gather around the dining table with smiles on their faces. That is the magic of cooking with a slow cooker, especially when it’s for a dish as irresistible as Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken. This creamy, savory delight is not just a meal; it’s an experience that promises to win hearts with every bite.
Why do we call it "marry me" chicken? The story behind the name adds an extra sprinkle of charm. Legend has it that one taste of this delectable dish made a lover drop to one knee—hence the romantic moniker. Whether you’re hoping to impress a significant other or simply elevate a family dinner, this dish is sure to charm everyone at the table.
Why Make This Recipe
- It’s a complete meal that cooks itself—perfect for busy weeknights.
- The creamy sauce together with the sundried tomatoes creates a flavor explosion that is both comforting and sophisticated.
- It doubles as a showstopper for gatherings while remaining incredibly easy to prepare.
Move over typical chicken dinners; this dish will redefine what it means to have a heartwarming meal at home.
Easy Method for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Creating your own Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken at home isn’t just simple, it’s a delightful culinary journey that anyone can undertake. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into the steps:
Prepare Your Chicken: Begin by placing four chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Opt for boneless, skinless cuts for the best texture; these will soak up all the flavor you’re about to infuse.
Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine your star ingredients: one cup of chopped sundried tomatoes, one cup of heavy cream, one cup of chicken broth, half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese, one teaspoon of garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until thoroughly combined, blending the creaminess of the heavy cream with the savory notes of the broth.
Combine: Pour this creamy tomato mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring that they are well-coated. This is where the magic truly starts—the chicken begins to tenderize while absorbing all those heavenly flavors.
Cooking Time: Cover the slow cooker and opt for either low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. Choose the low setting if you can plan ahead; it results in chicken that’s impeccably tender and juicy.
Serving: Once cooked, you’ll know the dish is ready when the chicken easily pulls apart with a fork. Serve it over a bed of pasta, rice, or creamy mashed potatoes, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil for that pop of green and an aromatic finish.
Once you have plated your meal, the enticing aroma that fills your home will surely lead to several "wow" moments at the dinner table.
Storage Tips for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
To keep the magic of your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken alive even after dinner, follow these handy storage tips:
Refrigerate: Allow the chicken to cool down before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days at 40°F (4°C).
Freeze: For longer storage, place chicken in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It lasts up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheat: Gently reheat the chicken on the stove or in the microwave. If needed, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to reclaim that luscious sauce texture.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy this delightful dish any day of the week!
Best Ways to Serve Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making and storing this romantic dish, how do you serve it to impress? Here are some suggestions:
Classic Pairings: Serve it over a bed of buttery fettuccine or wide noodles, allowing the sauce to cling to every bite. This pairing adds an indulgent comfort that aligns perfectly with the dish’s flavor.
With Grains: Opt for a health-conscious approach by serving your chicken over quinoa or brown rice. Both options absorb the sauce beautifully while providing a wholesome base.
On a Salad: For a lighter option, shred the chicken over a bed of fresh mixed greens. Drizzle with a little balsamic vinaigrette to enhance the overall flavors, creating a versatile meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
As a Wrap: Use the chicken as a filling for a wrap. Combine with fresh vegetables and a dollop of Greek yogurt or ranch dressing for a satisfying lunch or quick dinner.
Creativity knows no bounds with this dish, and your family or guests will love exploring the different ways to enjoy it.
Tips to Make Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Crafting the perfect Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken can be easily achieved with these helpful tips:
Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh sundried tomatoes and high-quality cream will elevate the flavor.
Add a Kick: If you like spice, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
Thickness Matters: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
These straightforward tips will ensure your Marry Me Chicken not only turns out beautifully but also makes your taste buds sing.
Variations or Substitutions
If you’re looking to switch things up or cater to dietary preferences, consider these variations:
Use Chicken Thighs: If you prefer darker meat, substitute chicken breasts with thighs. They’re incredibly flavorful and even more tender when cooked slowly.
Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, swap the heavy cream with coconut milk and utilize nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. This maintains a creamy texture while catering to dietary restrictions.
Experimenting with these variations opens up a world of flavors while keeping the spirit of the dish intact.
FAQs About Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before, store them in the fridge, and simply pour everything into the slow cooker in the morning. The flavors will meld beautifully.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They can add a bit more flavor and remain moist during the cooking process.
Q: How do I make it spicier?
- Add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Mix in your favorite hot sauce when combining the ingredients.
- Consider serving with sliced jalapeños on top before serving.
Q: What can I do if there’s excess liquid?
A: If the sauce is too runny, remove the chicken when it’s cooked, then transfer the sauce to a saucepan and simmer it for a few minutes to thicken before serving.
Q: Is it okay to leave it on warm mode?
A: For a couple of hours after it is cooked, you can leave it on the warm setting. However, it’s best not to leave it for extended periods to maintain quality.
Embracing the culinary adventure of making Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is not just about preparing a meal; it’s about creating memorable moments. With the delightful flavors of creamy tomatoes, tender chicken, and rich spices, you are sure to impress everyone who shares the table with you.
So go ahead, fire up that slow cooker and let the romance of this dish unfold. You’re not just serving dinner; you’re crafting a love story that begins with one bite. Happy cooking!
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Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A creamy, savory dish made in a slow cooker that promises to win hearts with every bite.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chopped sundried tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the sundried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken, making sure it’s well-coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken with a fork and serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, garnished with fresh basil.
Notes
For spicy variation, add red pepper flakes. For a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water and add it towards the end of cooking.