Dump Go Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

There is nothing more comforting than coming home to a bubbling crockpot of Marry Me Chicken that fills the house with cozy aromas. With just a few minutes of prep, you let the slow cooker do the work and end up with ultra-tender chicken nestled in a rich, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. This is the kind of dinner that wins hearts with every bite.

I first made this on a whim when I needed something foolproof for a dinner with friends Two bites in everyone was raving and someone joked that it was proposal-worthy The name stuck and it has been a favorite ever since

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: the lean base that turns juicy and tender when slow cooked Look for firm plump pieces with little discoloration
• Chicken broth: builds flavor and keeps the chicken moist Choose low sodium for better control of seasoning
• Heavy cream: gives the sauce a rich velvety texture Use the freshest cream you can find for the best results
• Sun dried tomatoes: add a burst of tangy sweetness Oil packed tomatoes are most tender rinse well if very oily
• Garlic: enhances the savory aroma and supports the sauce’s flavor base Freshly minced gives the biggest punch
• Dried oregano and dried basil: bring classic Italian fragrance Select quality dried herbs with bright earthy scent
• Red pepper flakes: add just a gentle heat Use more or less depending on your preference
• Grated Parmesan cheese: infuses salty richness and helps the sauce thicken Choose real Parmigiano Reggiano if possible
• Salt and pepper: balance and lift all the flavors Use fresh ground black pepper for the best taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish: adds a fresh herbal note and a pop of color Go for flat leaf for a mellower taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Chicken:

Place the chicken breasts straight into the bottom of the crockpot Make sure they lie in a single layer for even cooking

Mix the Sauce:

In a large bowl combine the chicken broth heavy cream chopped sun dried tomatoes minced garlic oregano basil red pepper flakes and Parmesan cheese Whisk until everything is evenly blended and the cheese merges into the liquid

Cover the Chicken:

Pour every bit of the mixture over the chicken breasts in the crockpot Move around the chicken if needed so every piece is nestled and blanketed in the sauce

Season:

Sprinkle salt and pepper over the top Adjust to taste remembering Parmesan will add some saltiness too

Cook:

Cover the crockpot and set to low for four to five hours The chicken will turn fork tender and the sauce will infuse with all the herb and tomato goodness

Finish the Sauce:

When the chicken is done use tongs to gently lift it onto a plate Briefly stir the sauce in the crockpot so the cheese and tomatoes are evenly distributed

Reunite and Coat:

Place the chicken back into the sauce and spoon the mixture over each piece to make sure every bite gets coated in the creamy flavor

Serve and Garnish:

Dish up the chicken hot with a pile of sauce and finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley This touch brightens all the rich flavors

Save

The Parmesan is my favorite part because it melts into the sauce and creates that perfect salty creaminess When we serve this at family dinners there is always someone scraping the bottom of the crockpot to get the last spoonful

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool completely before transferring to airtight containers Store in the fridge for up to three days For longer storage portion into freezer containers and freeze for up to two months When reheating add a splash of broth to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stove or microwave

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap chicken thighs for even more tender and flavorful results If you are out of heavy cream try half and half though the sauce will be a little lighter No sun dried tomatoes Use roasted red peppers or a touch of tomato paste for a different dimension

Serving Suggestions

This chicken is dreamy served over fluffy rice creamy mashed potatoes or even a bed of tender pasta For a lighter meal pair with roasted veggies or sautéed spinach If you are celebrating add crusty bread to mop up every last drop of sauce

Cultural Context

Slow cooker comfort foods like this have become go-tos in American kitchens because they bring the family together with almost no fuss The name Marry Me Chicken is a nod to how a dish that feels this special can make a big impression

Recipe FAQs

→ What is the best substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?

If you're out of sun-dried tomatoes, try using roasted red peppers or chopped fresh tomatoes for a milder flavor and similar texture.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs bring extra richness and stay juicy during the slow cooking process, making for a heartier dish.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes all soak up the creamy sauce beautifully. Steamed vegetables also make a light, fresh accompaniment.

→ How do I thicken the sauce?

Simply remove the slow-cooker lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking. The sauce will naturally reduce and thicken as it heats.

→ Is this suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. The flavors develop even more after a day, making leftovers delicious and convenient for busy weeknights.

→ How spicy is this dish?

The spice level is mild, but you can adjust by increasing or decreasing the red pepper flakes to suit your preference.