Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a creamy and chicken-licious dish that cooks slowly to make dinner super easy. With juicy chicken, tasty sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich sauce, it’s a real crowd-pleaser!
This dish is called “Marry Me” because it’s so delicious, you might want to pop the question! 😄 I love serving it over pasta or rice for a cozy meal that feels special with hardly any effort!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skinless thighs provide great flavor and tenderness. You can swap them with boneless thighs or chicken breasts, but keep in mind, breasts may dry out if overcooked.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and acidity. If you can’t find them, grape tomatoes work well too. You can also use a can of diced tomatoes for a more accessible option.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They bring a concentrated flavor. If unavailable, consider using fresh tomatoes, though it will alter the depth of flavor. Canned tomatoes can also replace them in a pinch.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version, or use coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated adds the best flavor. If you’re in a hurry, pre-grated can work, but it might lack that fresh taste. Nutritional yeast is a good dairy-free alternative.
How Do I Get the Chicken Nice and Brown Before Cooking in the Crock Pot?
Browning the chicken enhances flavor through caramelization. Don’t rush this step! Here’s how to do it:
- Heat olive oil in the skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
- Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken and set aside. This step makes a big difference in flavor, so don’t skip it!
Taking the time to brown the chicken gives it a beautiful color and adds to the overall taste of your dish. Enjoy the process!
How to Make Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Dish:
- 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
For Serving:
- Cooked rice or pasta
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken will take about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 6-7 hours to cook on low or 3-4 hours on high in the Crock Pot. Just set it and forget it while the flavors meld together beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken in the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it’s nicely browned. Then, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Prepare the Tomato Mixture:
In your Crock Pot, add the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and chicken broth. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together. This mixture will create a delicious base for your chicken!
3. Add the Chicken:
Now, take those browned chicken thighs and place them right on top of the tomato mixture in the Crock Pot. This way, they’ll soak up all the yummy flavors as they cook!
4. Pour in the Cream and Cheese:
Carefully pour the heavy cream over the chicken thighs. Then sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese on top. Give it a gentle stir just to combine the ingredients a little, but don’t worry about mixing it all perfectly. It’ll come together as it cooks!
5. Cook to Perfection:
Cover your Crock Pot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. When it’s done, the chicken should be tender and fully cooked through.
6. Final Seasoning:
Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. This is your chance to make it perfect just for you!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the delightful chicken over cooked rice or pasta, and don’t forget to garnish with some fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your wonderful meal!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Yes, you can! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs can be substituted for bone-in thighs. Just be mindful that the cooking time may need to be adjusted; boneless cuts typically cook faster, so check for doneness around the 3-hour mark on high or 5 hours on low.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. Keep in mind that the sauce may be less rich, so consider adding a bit more parmesan for extra flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, transfer to a freezer-safe container and keep for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
What Can I Serve with Marry Me Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with cooked rice or pasta, as the sauce is rich and creamy. For a healthier option, you could serve it with steamed or roasted vegetables, or even a fresh garden salad to balance the meal.
