Introduction to Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
What is Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken?
Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a succulent, fall-off-the-bone chicken dish that's sure to impress anyone you share it with! This slow-cooked delight features tender, juicy chicken breasts enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce that’s simply irresistible. Whether it's a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish has a way of making every meal feel like a celebration.
The secret to its enchanting flavor lies in a harmonious blend of garlic, Italian spices, and sun-dried tomatoes, all beautifully melded together in your trusty slow cooker. Just imagine coming home after a busy day to find your kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of something special simmering away!
Cooking with a Crock Pot not only saves you time but also enhances the flavors, making it a go-to cooking technique for busy young professionals. With just 15 minutes of prep, you can set it and forget it while it works its magic. Curious about the benefits of slow cooking? Check out some insights on the health advantages of slow-cooked meals.
In just a few hours, you’ll have a sumptuous, home-cooked meal ready to serve. Let’s dive into how to create this memorable dish!
Ingredients for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Creating the Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is straightforward and calls for some essential ingredients that deliver incredible flavor.
Essential ingredients for the chicken
To set the foundation for your dish, you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This is your main star. Make sure they are fresh for the best texture.
- Salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper: These seasonings enhance the chicken’s natural flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter: A little fat helps to sear and flavor the chicken, making it deliciously tender.
The sauce ingredients you'll love
What really elevates the Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is the sauce. Here’s what you need:
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth: This adds depth.
- 1 cup heavy cream: It gives the sauce a rich and creamy texture (consider reading up on how to prevent curdling).
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: This infuses the sauce with aroma and flavor.
- Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and paprika: These spices add warmth and zest.
- Sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil: They provide a pop of color and taste that brightens up the dish.
For more tips on how to choose the best ingredients, check out this guide on selecting chicken. Happy cooking!
Preparing Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Crafting a delicious Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken dish is a delightful experience, combining simplicity with rich flavors. Follow these easy steps, and you'll have a meal that could just win someone's heart!
Season the chicken
Start by making your chicken the star of the show. In a small bowl, mix together:
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Next, generously season your 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts on both sides. This seasoning blend will elevate the flavors and prepare the chicken for the lovely sauce that’s about to come.
Sear the chicken for flavor
Now, let’s take this flavor up a notch! Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, adding:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
Once the butter melts, carefully place your seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for a couple of minutes on each side, just until they turn a lovely golden brown—no need to cook them through just yet. When finished, remove the pan from the heat but keep the pan's delicious oil and melted butter set aside.
Prepare the creamy sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and cornstarch until smooth. This mixture will create a luscious sauce as it cooks.
Add to the bowl:
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 cup heavy cream (check the cooking notes if you're uncertain here!)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ⅓ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (drained)
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (add it later)
Whisk until combined, and set it aside. This sauce is where the magic happens!
Combine everything in the slow cooker
Pour the prepared chicken broth mixture into the bottom of your slow cooker. Place your seared chicken breasts on top, followed by the oil and butter left in the skillet. Don’t forget to scatter those delicious sun-dried tomatoes on top. Cover the slow cooker and ensure it’s set to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours—do resist the urge to peek while it cooks!
Cook and let the magic happen
Now comes the best part—allow the slow cooker to work its magic! While it cooks, you can go about your day, knowing a romantic meal is on the horizon. When the time is up, carefully remove the chicken and whisk in the parmesan cheese until fully incorporated. Return the chicken to the sauce, sprinkle with fresh basil, and there you have it! A meal perfect for impressing that special someone.
Take your time, enjoy the process, and relish in the delightful flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Variations on Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Add veggies for a complete meal
Transform your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken into a more nourishing feast by adding colorful vegetables. Consider including bell peppers, carrots, or even kale. Simply chop them up and toss them in with the chicken; they'll soak up the flavors of the creamy sauce while cooking. You can also check out this article on healthy slow cooker recipes for more ideas!
Spice it up with different seasonings
Feeling adventurous? Switch up the seasoning in your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken. Experiment with herbs like rosemary or thyme, or add some cumin for a warm, earthy flavor. A dash of lemon zest can brighten it all up! The beauty of this recipe is its versatility — it can be a new dish each time you make it, keeping family dinners exciting. What flavors do you love?
Cooking Tips and Notes for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Avoiding Common Mistakes
When preparing your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken, be mindful of a few common pitfalls. First, don’t skip the searing step! Browning the chicken enhances flavor and seals in juices. Also, resist the urge to lift the lid during cooking; this lets heat escape and can lead to undercooked chicken. Lastly, pay attention to the size of your chicken breasts—larger pieces will require extra cooking time, so cut them down if needed for even cooking.
Make-Ahead Tips for Busy Professionals
If you’re juggling a hectic schedule, this recipe is your friend! You can season and sear your chicken a day ahead, storing it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Just prep the sauce and assemble everything in the crockpot the next morning. Using freezer-friendly bags can also save time; simply combine all ingredients and freeze for later. When you’re ready to cook, place it directly into the crockpot, and enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort.
For more tips on meal prepping, check out This Chef's Guide to Meal Prep.
Serving suggestions for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Ideas for sides and accompaniments
When enjoying your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their rich texture complements the savory sauce beautifully.
- Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus: Adds a vibrant splash of color and balances the dish's richness.
- Quinoa or Rice: Absorbs the sauce, making every bite satisfying.
- Garlic Bread: A fun way to soak up any leftover sauce!
Each of these sides adds something special and keeps the meal light yet hearty.
Perfect pairings with sauces or dips
Enhance the experience of your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken by experimenting with different sauces and dips:
- Basil Pesto: The herbal freshness of pesto pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
- Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle adds a sweet and tangy contrast that brightens the dish.
- Homemade Tzatziki: This yogurt-based dip brings a cooling effect, especially on warm evenings.
Why not mix and match? Finding your perfect pairing can turn a simple meal into an unforgettable dining experience!
Time Details for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Prep Time
Getting everything ready for your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a breeze! You’ll just need about 15 minutes to prep your ingredients. This includes seasoning your chicken and mixing up that delicious sauce!
Cook Time
Now for the best part — the cooking! Pop everything into your slow cooker and let it work its magic for about 6 to 8 hours on low. This slow and gentle cooking method ensures your chicken will be super tender and bursting with flavor. Remember, patience is key here!
Total Time
In total, from prep to plate, you're looking at roughly 6 hours and 25 minutes. This includes your prep time and the hands-off cooking in the crock pot. Perfect for a busy weekday or a cozy weekend dinner!
If you're curious about slow cooking techniques, check out resources like Serious Eats for more tips and tricks. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Facts for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Calories Per Serving
One serving of this Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken packs approximately 688 calories. Perfect for a filling meal, it balances flavor and satisfaction without compromising on taste.
Key Nutrition Highlights
- Protein-Packed: Each serving features lean chicken breast, providing about 55 grams of protein, crucial for muscle repair and overall health.
- Healthy Fats: With a blend of olive oil, butter, and heavy cream, you get wholesome fats that promote heart health while adding delicious creaminess to the dish.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The addition of basil and sun-dried tomatoes contributes vitamins A and C, known for their immune-boosting properties.
- Low-Carb: This recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for those following keto or low-carb diets.
Looking to get the most out of your meals? Check out healthline.com for tips on maintaining a balanced diet!
FAQs about Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
While it's possible to use frozen chicken, it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking and to ensure the chicken cooks thoroughly. If you're in a rush, you might increase the cooking time, but you may sacrifice tenderness and flavor—definitely something to avoid when it comes to Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken!
How can I make the sauce dairy-free?
To make the sauce dairy-free, simply substitute heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream. You could also use a non-dairy yogurt if you prefer a creamier texture. Check out some of these dairy-free substitutes for more options!
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. You can also enjoy it in salads, wraps, or pasta dishes to give them an extra flavor kick!
Conclusion on Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
In conclusion, Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is more than just a delicious meal—it's a heartfelt dish that's perfect for impressing loved ones. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and bold flavors, it’s sure to earn a place in your weekly dinner rotation. Enjoy every bite!
Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
Equipment
- Crock Pot
- Large skillet
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
For the chicken
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 2 Tablespoons butter
For the sauce
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 3 Tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 cup heavy cream READ NOTES BELOW FIRST!
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ⅓ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, drained
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 6-8 leaves fresh basil leaves, chopped
Instructions
Preparation
- In a small bowl, mix together: ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Season chicken breasts on both sides with the seasoning mix.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and butter, allowing the butter to melt.
- Sear the chicken breasts on both sides until golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside. Keep the leftover oil and butter in the pan.
- Whisk together chicken broth and cornstarch in a bowl until there are no lumps.
- Add the chicken broth mixture to the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Whisk in heavy cream, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and paprika.
- Place the seared chicken breasts into the slow cooker, pouring the olive oil and butter from the pan on top.
- Top each piece of chicken with chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Take the chicken breasts out and whisk in freshly grated parmesan cheese. Add the chicken back into the slow cooker, cover with sauce and top with chopped basil leaves before serving.
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