Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken

The Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken in a luscious, creamy sauce with hints of parmesan and sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions, this recipe not only impresses but also simplifies your cooking process. With minimal prep time, you can enjoy a comforting meal that tantalizes the taste buds and makes any gathering memorable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just season, sear, and let the slow cooker do the magic!
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of cream, parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes creates an irresistible sauce.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Ideal for batch cooking; enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve it topped with fresh basil for a restaurant-quality dish at home.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making this creamy delight, ensure you have the right tools on hand. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for set-it-and-forget-it cooking, making it easy to prepare meals throughout the day.
• Large skillet: Essential for searing the chicken to enhance flavor before slow cooking.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, especially when mixing cornstarch with broth.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

This slow cooker version of the famous Marry Me Chicken features tender chicken in a rich, creamy sauce with parmesan and sun-dried tomatoes.

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Cooking

• 2 Tablespoons olive oil
• 2 Tablespoons butter
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 3 Tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

For Seasoning

• 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

For Garnish

• 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 10 fresh basil leaves, chopped

How to Make Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Mix salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper in a small bowl. Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with this mixture.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each chicken breast until golden brown on both sides; do not cook through. Reserve the pan drippings for later use.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In another bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and cornstarch until smooth. Add this mixture to your slow cooker along with heavy cream, minced garlic, and all seasonings.

Step 4: Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker

Place the seared chicken breasts into the slow cooker. Pour in the reserved pan drippings along with the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook on low for 6-7 hours until the chicken is tender.

Step 5: Finish Your Dish

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Whisk freshly grated parmesan cheese into the sauce until fully incorporated. Return the chicken to coat it well with this delicious sauce. Top with freshly chopped basil before serving to add an aromatic touch.

How to Serve Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken

Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Its rich flavors and tender chicken make it perfect for different occasions, whether it’s a casual dinner or a special gathering. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Over Pasta

• Fettuccine or Penne – Serve the chicken and sauce over cooked fettuccine or penne pasta for a comforting, hearty meal.
• Zucchini Noodles – For a lighter option, try zucchini noodles topped with the creamy chicken for a delicious low-carb alternative.

With Rice

• Steamed White Rice – A classic pairing, serve the chicken over fluffy white rice that soaks up the creamy sauce.
• Garlic Butter Rice – Enhance the flavor by serving with garlic butter rice, complementing the dish perfectly.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Greens Salad – Serve the chicken over a bed of mixed greens for a fresh and vibrant presentation.
• Spinach and Arugula – For added flavor, use spinach and arugula; their peppery notes pair well with the creamy sauce.

Accompanied by Bread

• Crusty French Bread – Provide slices of crusty French bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Garlic Breadsticks – Serve warm garlic breadsticks on the side for an extra touch of indulgence.

How to Perfect Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken

To ensure your Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips. Following these suggestions will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and high-quality parmesan cheese will elevate the dish’s taste significantly.
• Sear the Chicken Well – Taking time to sear the chicken creates a deeper flavor profile before slow cooking.
• Adjust Seasonings to Taste – Feel free to modify salt and pepper amounts based on your preferences for seasoning.
• Let It Rest Before Serving – Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps retain moisture and enhances flavors.
• Experiment with Herbs – Try adding different herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth in flavor.
• Serve Immediately After Cooking – For best results, serve right after preparing to enjoy all the creamy goodness.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken can enhance your meal experience. The right accompaniments will complement its rich flavors beautifully. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a perfect base for soaking up sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and crunch alongside the tender chicken.
3. Cauliflower Rice – Low-carb cauliflower rice is a fantastic alternative that pairs well with this creamy dish.
4. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes offers a healthy, vibrant contrast.
5. Green Beans Almondine – Sautéed green beans with almonds bring both elegance and crunch to your plate.
6. Creamed Spinach – Rich creamed spinach complements the creamy chicken beautifully while adding nutritional value.
7. Couscous Pilaf – Fluffy couscous cooked with herbs serves as an excellent vehicle for enjoying sauce-drenched chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Overcooking the chicken: Slow cooking can dry out chicken if left too long. Stick to the recommended cooking time of 6-7 hours on low.
• Not seasoning adequately: Failing to season the chicken properly can result in bland flavors. Use the salt and spice mix generously on both sides of the chicken.
• Skipping the searing step: Skipping the searing process can lead to less flavor. Always sear the chicken until golden brown for added depth.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Low-quality cream or cheese can affect taste. Opt for fresh, high-quality parmesan and heavy cream for a rich sauce.
• Ignoring sauce consistency: Not whisking cornstarch well into the broth can create clumps. Ensure it’s smooth before adding it to the slow cooker.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Portion into smaller containers for easier thawing.

Reheating Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth. Heat while stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken?

You can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s best to thaw them first. Cooking from frozen may require additional cooking time and may not cook evenly.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?

For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or coconut milk. However, note that these alternatives may alter the flavor and creaminess slightly.

How do I adjust the spice level in Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken?

To adjust the spice level, simply modify or omit the red pepper flakes based on your preference. You can also add more if you like it spicier!

Can I make Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare everything in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just turn on your slow cooker when you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich sauce that’s perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors with different herbs or vegetables. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; your family will surely love it!