If you are searching for a comforting, crowd pleasing dinner, this creamy crockpot Marry Me chicken you’ll love checks every box. Tender chicken slow cooked in a rich, creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and herbs creates a dish that feels special with very little effort. It is the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with irresistible aroma and earns rave reviews at the table.
This slow cooker version makes the classic Marry Me chicken even easier, perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or when you want a stress free dinner that still feels indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
One of the best things about this recipe is how effortlessly it comes together. The slow cooker does most of the work, gently cooking the chicken until it is tender and juicy while the sauce develops deep, savory flavor.
You will also love how versatile this dish is. Serve it over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or with roasted vegetables for a complete meal. The sauce is creamy without being heavy, with just enough tang from sun-dried tomatoes to keep every bite interesting.
This recipe is family friendly, customizable, and ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Ingredient Notes
Chicken thighs are slightly more forgiving and stay extra juicy, but chicken breasts work beautifully if you prefer leaner meat.
Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil provide the best flavor. Be sure to drain them well to avoid excess oil in the sauce.
Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoothly and thickens the sauce. Pre grated cheese may not melt as evenly.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Lightly season the chicken on both sides with salt and black pepper. Place the chicken in the bottom of your crockpot in an even layer.
Step 2: Add Flavor Builders
Sprinkle the garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes over the chicken. Scatter the chopped sun-dried tomatoes evenly on top.
Step 3: Add Liquids
Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream over the chicken. Gently stir around the edges to distribute the seasonings without moving the chicken too much.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2½ to 3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and very tender.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce
Remove the lid and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce sit for 10 to 15 minutes to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the chicken warm, spooning plenty of sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan if desired.
Pro Tips for Success
- Do not overcook the chicken, as it can become dry if left too long on high heat.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
- Let the sauce rest briefly after cooking to thicken naturally.
- For a thicker sauce, remove the chicken and simmer the sauce on high for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Stir gently to keep the chicken pieces intact.
Flavor Variations
- Spinach Marry Me Chicken: Stir in fresh spinach during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Mushroom Marry Me Chicken: Add sliced mushrooms at the beginning for extra earthiness.
- Lemon Herb Version: Add a splash of fresh lemon juice before serving for brightness.
- Dairy Light Option: Use half and half or cashew cream instead of heavy cream.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy crockpot Marry Me chicken pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Spoon it over pasta or rice to soak up the sauce, or serve it with mashed potatoes for classic comfort.
For a lighter option, serve alongside roasted vegetables, steamed green beans, or zucchini noodles. A simple green salad also balances the richness of the dish.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring to maintain the creamy texture.
To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then store in a freezer safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slowly. Cream based sauces may separate slightly but will come together when stirred.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 |
| Protein | 38 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Fat | 32 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 720 mg |
FAQ About Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Why is it called Marry Me chicken?
The dish earned its name because it is so flavorful and comforting that it is said to inspire marriage proposals. The creamy sauce and tender chicken make it memorable and impressive.
Can I use frozen chicken?
It is best to use thawed chicken for even cooking and food safety. Frozen chicken can release extra liquid and dilute the sauce.
How do I thicken the sauce?
The sauce thickens naturally as it cools slightly. For a thicker sauce, add extra Parmesan or simmer uncovered on high for a short time.
Is this recipe spicy?
The dish is mild with optional red pepper flakes. You can omit them entirely for a kid friendly version or add more for extra heat.
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Equipment
- Slow cooker
- measuring cups
- measuring spoons
- cutting board
- knife
Ingredients
- 2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Season the chicken on both sides with salt and black pepper. Place the chicken in an even layer in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Sprinkle garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes over the chicken. Scatter the chopped sun-dried tomatoes on top.
- Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream over the chicken. Gently stir around the edges to distribute flavors.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2½ to 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and let the sauce rest for 10 to 15 minutes to thicken. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve warm with sauce spooned over the chicken. Garnish with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
Final Thoughts
This creamy crockpot Marry Me chicken you’ll love is the perfect blend of comfort and elegance. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it is a recipe you will return to again and again. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it is guaranteed to impress while keeping things simple in the kitchen.
