If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that’s as tender as it is flavorful, look no further than Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken. This recipe combines succulent chicken breasts with a creamy, Parmesan-infused sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic garlic, making it a meal that just might inspire a proposal!
Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Lightly season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear them until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the chicken to the crock pot.
Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Deglaze the skillet with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Pour this mixture into the crock pot.
Combine Ingredients: Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the crock pot. Stir well to combine and coat the chicken.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Garnish and Serve: Once done, garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley. Serve with pasta, rice, or a side of vegetables for a complete meal.
Serving Tips:
Pairings: This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over pasta, rice, or alongside roasted vegetables. For a lighter option, serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
Garnish: Enhance the flavor and presentation by garnishing the chicken with freshly chopped basil or parsley. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese can also add a delightful finishing touch.
Sauce Utilization: Make sure to spoon the creamy sauce generously over the chicken and any side dishes. The sauce is a key component of the dish, adding rich flavor and moisture.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Ensure the chicken is well-covered to maintain freshness.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers gently to preserve the texture of the chicken and sauce. You can reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the sauce has thickened too much after refrigeration or freezing, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to reach the desired consistency.
Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, be cautious not to overcook the chicken, as this can make it dry. Heat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat.
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FAQs:
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts in this recipe. Chicken thighs will add a bit more flavor and are often more tender. Adjust the cooking time if needed, as thighs may take slightly longer to cook than breasts.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken a day in advance. Simply cook as directed, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat thoroughly before serving. This can be a great time-saver for busy days.
How can I make this recipe lighter?
To lighten up the recipe, consider using half-and-half or a lower-fat milk instead of heavy cream. You can also reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese or use a reduced-fat version. For a dairy-free option, substitute the cream and cheese with non-dairy alternatives and adjust the seasonings as needed.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick after cooking?
If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out by adding a splash of chicken broth or milk. Stir well to incorporate the liquid and heat until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. If you’re reheating leftovers, adding a bit of liquid can also help restore the sauce’s original texture.
Conclusion:
Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with the tangy flavor of sun-dried tomatoes and the savory depth of garlic and herbs. The slow cooking method ensures that the chicken becomes incredibly tender, soaking up all the delicious flavors from the sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
📖 Recipe:
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Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
- Total Time: 3-4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a deliciously creamy and tender chicken dish slow-cooked to perfection. With succulent chicken breasts simmered in a rich sauce of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its irresistible flavor might even inspire a proposal! Ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions, this comforting meal is easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to the crock pot.
- In the same skillet, cook minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Deglaze with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Pour the mixture into the crock pot.
- Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the crock pot. Stir to combine and coat the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Garnish with chopped basil or parsley before serving. Serve with pasta, rice, or vegetables.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or a lower-fat milk for the heavy cream and reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese.
Chicken thighs can be used as an alternative to chicken breasts; adjust cooking time as needed.
To make ahead, cook the dish and refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker (Crock Pot)
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 450 kcal per serving
