Marry Me Chicken
Marry Me Chicken is a delightful dish that captures hearts with its rich flavors and creamy sauce. The combination of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a velvety cream sauce creates a meal that’s perfect for romantic dinners or family gatherings. It’s a dish I discovered during a busy week when I needed something quick, comforting, and impressive all at once. Whether you’re trying to win someone over or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to make an impact!
What makes this recipe special
There are countless reasons to fall in love with Marry Me Chicken. First and foremost, it’s a low-effort, high-reward dish that’s perfect for those who are short on time but big on flavor. With just a few ingredients and your trusty crockpot, you can create a gourmet meal that seems like it took hours to prepare. It’s budget-friendly too, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or even special occasions when you want to impress without breaking the bank.
"This dish changed our weeknight dinners forever! Creamy, flavorful, and so easy to make. It’s become a family favorite!" – Sarah T.
How this recipe comes together
Preparing Marry Me Chicken is as simple as it is satisfying. You’ll start by layering your chicken breasts in the crockpot, which serves as the foundation for this dish. Next, you’ll whisk together sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, and seasonings to create a luscious sauce that you’ll pour over the chicken. The slow cooking process melds all these wonderful flavors for a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. And the best part? You can walk away and let your crockpot do the work for you!
Key ingredients
Gather these items to create your own Marry Me Chicken:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, drained)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
A note for substitutions: If you’re looking to lighten it up, you could swap the heavy cream for a lighter option such as half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk.
Directions to follow
- Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour this delicious mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.
- Set your crockpot to cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Just before serving, garnish with fresh basil to add a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Best ways to enjoy it
Marry Me Chicken is versatile enough to be served in various ways. For an elegant touch, plate it with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to soak up that luscious sauce. You can also pair it with steamed veggies, like asparagus or green beans, for a lighter meal. If you’re hosting friends, serve it over a bed of pasta or whole grain rice to make it even heartier!
Keeping leftovers fresh
To keep your leftovers safe and delicious, store any uneaten Marry Me Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat. If you have an abundance of leftovers, you can freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Helpful cooking tips
For the best results, don’t skip the seasoning! Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. If you want to intensify the flavor, consider marinating the chicken for a few hours prior to cooking. Also, remember that slow cookers vary in temperature, so it’s always a good idea to check the doneness of the chicken a little earlier if you’re unsure.
Creative twists
While the classic version of Marry Me Chicken is superb, you can easily put your own spin on it. Try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor or throwing in some spinach for added nutrition. For a spicy kick, consider incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also top it with grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy finish.
Your questions answered
How long does preparation take?
Preparation is quick and straightforward; expect to spend about 10-15 minutes getting everything ready before cooking.
Can I use different types of meat?
Yes! While chicken breasts are traditional, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier option or even swap for turkey or pork depending on your preference.
Is it safe to freeze?
Absolutely! Just ensure the chicken is cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Remember to thaw it properly before reheating.
With its rich flavors and ease of preparation, Marry Me Chicken is destined to become a staple in your home. Whether you’re cooking for someone special or treating yourself to a delightful meal, this recipe has you covered!
Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken breasts Traditional cut for this recipe.
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, drained)
- 1 cup heavy cream Can be substituted with half-and-half or coconut milk.
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- to taste Salt
- to taste pepper
- for garnish Fresh basil Adds fresh flavor and color.
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour this delicious mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.
- Set your crockpot to cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Just before serving, garnish with fresh basil.
