This Keto Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a cozy dish perfect for holiday gatherings! It features tender chicken cooked in a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. It’s full of flavor!
This dish is simply a crowd-pleaser. I swear, it makes everyone ask for seconds. So easy to prep too—just toss it in the crockpot and let it do its magic while you enjoy the festivities!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish due to their tenderness. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well too! They add a richer flavor and stay juicy.
Heavy Cream: This adds a creamy texture to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream, though flavors may vary slightly.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They offer a tangy taste that brightens up the dish. If you can’t find them, you could use diced fresh tomatoes, keeping in mind it will alter the flavor a bit.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds nutrition and color. Feel free to swap in other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard for a different twist!
How to Ensure Your Chicken Stays Juicy and Flavorful?
One of the key tricks to a great Marry Me Chicken is ensuring the chicken remains juicy during cooking. Searing the chicken before placing it in the crockpot locks in flavor and moisture. Here’s how:
- Heat oil or butter until hot, but not smoking.
- Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side. This forms a delicious crust.
- Don’t rush! Searing adds depth to the overall flavor of the dish.
Once the chicken is cooked, allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps redistribute the juices for a tastier bite!
Keto Crockpot Marry Me Chicken for Holidays
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably packed in oil, drained)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 15 minutes to prep and then you can let the crockpot do the work! You’ll need 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high for cooking. So total, plan for around 4-6 hours, including the cooking time. Perfect for a stress-free holiday meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by generously seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. This adds lots of flavor right from the start!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned chicken breasts for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they have a beautiful golden-brown crust. While this step is optional, it really enhances the flavor of the dish.
3. Move to the Crockpot:
Once the chicken is seared, transfer it into the crockpot. This will be where all the magic happens!
4. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes until smooth and creamy. This mixture is going to make your chicken so luscious!
5. Pour the Creamy Sauce:
Pour the tasty cream mixture over the chicken in the crockpot, ensuring all the chicken is well covered to soak up all the yummy flavors.
6. Cooking Time:
Cover and set your crockpot to cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for about 2-3 hours. By the end of this time, your chicken will be fall-apart tender!
7. Add the Spinach:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the fresh spinach leaves. They will wilt nicely into the sauce, adding great color and nutrition.
8. Taste and Adjust:
Give the dish a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. The flavors should be bright and savory!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Keto Marry Me Chicken hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a touch of freshness. It goes perfectly over cauliflower rice or with steamed low-carb veggies, making it a wonderful holiday meal!
Enjoy this comforting, creamy, flavorful keto-friendly chicken dish. It’s sure to impress your guests and become a holiday favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking! Thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for quicker results. Searing frozen chicken is not recommended, as it won’t brown properly. Instead, just place it directly in the crockpot with the sauce.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No problem! If you’re out of heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, but the dish will still retain its creaminess.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick during reheating!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add other veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients and variety. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them to the crockpot at the same time as the chicken for even cooking.