Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Recipe

This Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Recipe is everything you could want in a slow-cooked dish: tender chicken, a rich, creamy sauce, and a blend of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. This dish, aptly named Marry Me Chicken, is famous for its mouthwatering combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, parmesan, and a creamy sauce that coats every bite of chicken.

And, of course, it’s made even easier in a slow cooker, making it a perfect choice for busy nights, meal prepping, or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen. But why is this recipe so special? What makes it stand out among other slow cooker chicken recipes? Let’s dive into why you should try this dish, and how to prepare it perfectly every time.

Why Make This Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Recipe?

When you’re looking for a meal that’s quick, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress, the Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Recipe is the answer. Here’s why:

1. Convenience: The beauty of a slow cooker is that it does all the work for you. You can simply toss the ingredients into the pot, set it, and forget it until dinner time. There’s no need for constant attention while it’s cooking.
2. Tender and Flavorful Chicken: Slow cooking allows the chicken to absorb all the delicious flavors from the seasonings, stock, and cream. The result? Juicy, tender chicken that practically falls apart with a fork.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re feeding the family on a busy weekday or hosting a dinner party, this recipe can be adapted to suit any situation. The creamy, savory sauce and rich flavors are sure to win over anyone who tries it.
4. Meal Prep-Friendly: This recipe is perfect for batch cooking. It stores well and can be reheated for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
5. Minimal Effort for Maximum Flavor: The ingredients are simple, but together, they create a restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort. It’s the ideal combination of convenience and sophistication.

What Ingredients Are Needed?

To make this delicious Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Chicken Breasts

The foundation of this dish. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best because they cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the sauce without becoming too dry. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier option.

Sun-Dried Tomato Paste

This is one of the key ingredients that sets this dish apart. The paste adds a rich, umami flavor that deepens the overall taste of the sauce.

Dried Mixed Herbs or Italian Seasoning

These herbs bring an aromatic blend of flavors that complement the sun-dried tomato paste and garlic. You can use a store-bought Italian seasoning mix or a homemade blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary.

Garlic Powder or Garlic Granules

Garlic is the secret weapon of this recipe. It infuses the sauce with a bold, savory flavor. Garlic powder or granules offer an easy way to add that garlic taste without the hassle of chopping fresh garlic.

Paprika

Paprika brings a subtle smokiness and warmth to the dish, without overwhelming the other flavors. It’s the perfect addition to balance out the richness of the cream.

Onion Powder

Another layer of savory goodness, onion powder helps create a well-rounded flavor profile that ties the entire dish together.

Chicken Stock/Broth

For the sauce to have the right consistency and flavor, you need a good-quality chicken stock or broth. It adds moisture to the chicken and creates a savory base for the sauce.

Cornflour/Cornstarch

This is your thickening agent. Cornflour (or cornstarch) helps to create a creamy, velvety sauce that coats the chicken perfectly.

Pats of Butter

Butter adds richness and depth to the sauce, making it even more luxurious.

Double Cream

Double cream (or heavy cream) is what makes this sauce so incredibly creamy and indulgent. It helps bind all the ingredients together for that perfect, silky texture.

Salt & Black Pepper

The basics! Season to taste with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the dish.

Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan adds a nutty, salty finish to the sauce, giving it an irresistible flavor. You can use freshly grated parmesan for the best results.

Fresh Basil

For the final touch, fresh basil is added to brighten up the dish. It adds a freshness that cuts through the richness of the sauce.

How to Make This Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Making this Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken is as easy as 1-2-3. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried herbs. Make sure each piece is well-coated. This step ensures that the chicken is full of flavor from the inside out.

Step 2: Add the Sauce Ingredients

In a bowl, combine the sun-dried tomato paste, chicken stock, butter, double cream, and cornflour. Stir until the cornflour is fully dissolved and the sauce is smooth. Pour the mixture into the bottom of your slow cooker. Then, place the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the sauce.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Chicken

Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. The chicken should shred easily with a fork when done. Stir the sauce halfway through the cooking time to help distribute the flavors.

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker. Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted, and fresh basil for a burst of freshness. If the sauce is too thin, you can thicken it further by adding a slurry of cornflour and water. Return the chicken to the pot and spoon the sauce over it.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken over mashed potatoes, rice, or alongside steamed vegetables. Don’t forget to drizzle plenty of that creamy sauce on top!

What if the Sauce is Still Too Runny?

If you find that the sauce is a bit too runny, don’t worry – there are a few ways to fix this:

1. Thicken with Cornflour (Cornstarch): Mix a tablespoon of cornflour with a tablespoon of water to make a slurry. Add this to the sauce and cook on high for 15-30 minutes until thickened.
2. Simmer and Reduce: If you have time, you can remove the chicken and simmer the sauce on the stove for a few minutes to reduce and thicken.
3. Add More Parmesan: Parmesan cheese acts as a thickening agent and will help absorb some of the excess liquid while adding more flavor.

What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken

While Marry Me Chicken is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate the meal even further. Here are some great options:

Side Dish	Why it Pairs Well with Marry Me Chicken
Mashed Potatoes	Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the sauce.
Rice	White or brown rice works well to absorb the rich sauce.
Steamed Vegetables	Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add a healthy balance.
Garlic Bread	The crispy bread is perfect for mopping up extra sauce.
Fresh Salad	A light, crisp salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.

Can Any of the Ingredients Be Substituted?

Yes, you can make a few substitutions depending on your preferences or dietary needs:

• Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are a great substitute for breasts. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful.
• Coconut Milk: For a dairy-free option, substitute double cream with coconut milk for a creamy texture without the dairy.
• Vegetable Broth: If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock, and use plant-based butter and cream.
• Nutritional Yeast: Instead of parmesan, you can use nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly, cheesy flavor.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken in a Pan

If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can still make this dish in a pan. Here’s how:

1. Sear the Chicken: Season the chicken and sear it in a large skillet over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
2. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the sun-dried tomato paste, chicken stock, butter, and cream. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
3. Cook the Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and cook on low heat for 20-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Finish the Sauce: Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the parmesan and fresh basil. Serve immediately.

Can You Freeze Leftovers?

Absolutely! Marry Me Chicken makes excellent leftovers. Here’s how to store and freeze it:

1. Cool the Chicken: Allow the chicken and sauce to cool completely before storing.
2. Store in Airtight Containers: Place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
3. Freeze for Up to 3 Months: You can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? 

Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. They will be juicier and more flavorful.

Can I make this dish without a slow cooker? Absolutely! 

You can make it on the stove or in the oven as an alternative.

Can I substitute the cream for something else? 

You can use coconut milk for a dairy-free option or low-fat cream for a lighter version.

Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken leftovers? 

Yes, this dish freezes well and can be stored for up to 3 months.

What should I serve with Marry Me Chicken? 

Mashed potatoes, rice, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables all make great sides for this dish.