Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a slow cooker twist on the wildly popular creamy Tuscan-style dish that’s earned its romantic name for good reason. Juicy chicken simmers all day in a dreamy sun-dried tomato cream sauce that’s bursting with flavor from garlic, herbs, and parmesan. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy date night or want a hands-off, family-friendly dinner, this one-pot wonder is guaranteed to impress — no ring required (but it might inspire one).
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🍗 Hands-off & easy: Minimal prep, maximum flavor
- 💍 Date-night worthy: Rich, savory, and romantic
- 🍝 Versatile: Pairs with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or spaghetti squash
- 🥣 Creamy & comforting: A crowd-pleaser for all ages
- 🥩 Protein-packed: 34g of protein per serving
- 🥦 Low-carb adaptable: Naturally gluten-free and easy to make keto-friendly
Ingredients
- 1½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped, oil-packed or dry)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup heavy cream (or dairy-free alt)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
- Optional: Red pepper flakes, extra Parmesan for serving
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned (not cooked through). Set aside. - Make the Sauce Base
In the slow cooker, whisk together chicken broth and cornstarch until smooth. Add garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. - Assemble in Slow Cooker
Place seared chicken in the slow cooker, turning to coat. Sprinkle sun-dried tomatoes over the top. - Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F). - Finish the Sauce
Remove chicken to a plate. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan into the cooking liquid until smooth. Return chicken and coat well with sauce. - Serve & Garnish
Spoon creamy sauce over each piece of chicken. Top with fresh basil, extra Parmesan, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3–4 hours (low)
- Total Time: ~4 hours
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty: Easy
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 346
- Protein: 34g
- Fat: 20g (Sat Fat: 8g)
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 745mg
- Cholesterol: 135mg
Tips & Variations
- 🧄 Don’t skip the sear: It adds deep flavor and locks in moisture
- 🥛 Cream options: Use half & half for a lighter version, or vegan cream for dairy-free
- 🍅 Tomato tip: Jarred oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes add richer flavor
- 🔥 Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes for heat
- 🥩 Chicken swap: Use 6–8 boneless thighs for more flavor and tenderness
- 🥦 Serving ideas: Pair with mashed potatoes, sautéed spinach, roasted broccoli, or over spaghetti squash
FAQs
Can I put raw chicken in the slow cooker?
Yes! Just make sure it cooks to 165°F. Searing first is optional but adds flavor.
Why is my crockpot chicken rubbery?
It was likely overcooked. Stick to 3–4 hours on low to keep it tender.
Can I freeze this dish?
It’s not ideal — the cream sauce may separate. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Can I prep this in advance?
Yes! Assemble everything (except cream and cheese) in the slow cooker insert and refrigerate overnight. Add dairy in the final step after cooking.
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sear chicken in olive oil 2–3 minutes per side. Set aside.
- In crockpot, whisk broth and cornstarch. Add garlic and spices.
- Add chicken to slow cooker. Top with sun-dried tomatoes.
- Cook on low for 3–4 hours or until chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove chicken. Stir in cream and Parmesan. Return chicken and coat.
- Serve with sauce, fresh basil, and extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
– Half & half or vegan cream substitutes fine
– Best served fresh (not ideal for freezing)
Conclusion
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken brings gourmet comfort to your table with barely any effort. It’s creamy, cozy, and packed with flavor — the kind of meal that makes people go silent at the table (because they’re too busy enjoying it). Whether you serve it over pasta or veggies, it’s a recipe worth repeating — and maybe even proposing over.