Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, dreamy dish with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and hints of garlic. It’s like a big warm hug on a plate!
This dish is so delicious, it might just prompt a proposal! 😂 I love how I can throw everything in the crockpot and let it work its magic while I relax.
Pair it with some pasta or rice, and dinner is served! It’s super easy, and your taste buds will thank you for it.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skin-on chicken thighs are perfect for this recipe as they stay juicy during cooking. If you prefer a leaner option, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work too, but they might cook a bit quicker, so keep an eye on them!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes add great flavor. If you can’t find oil-packed, you can use dried tomatoes; just soak them in hot water for about 20 minutes before chopping. They’ll still bring a wonderful taste!
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce a rich, creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using half-and-half, but this will change the creaminess slightly. You can even use coconut milk for a dairy-free version!
Cheese: Parmesan adds depth to the dish. If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are great substitutes, or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Searing Chicken?
Searing chicken is key to locking in flavor and moisture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with room-temperature chicken. It helps them cook more evenly!
- Preheat your skillet with oil until it shimmers. This ensures a nice crust forms.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If needed, sear in batches.
- Make sure the skin side is down and let it cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes. Resist the urge to move it around!
Once you’ve flipped the chicken, cook the other side for about 3 minutes. This may take practice, but it’s so worth it for that crispy skin!
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed preferred)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, for a bit of heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crockpot Marry Me Chicken recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 3 to 4 hours of cooking time on low. So, it’s a great way to set it and forget it until dinner time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by generously seasoning both sides of the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This will help enhance their flavor as they cook!
2. Searing the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the chicken thighs, skin side down. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Flip the chicken and sear the other side for another 3 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Making the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté them for 1-2 minutes until they’re fragrant. Then, pour in the chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the skillet bottom with a wooden spoon. Let it simmer for a minute.
4. Combining Ingredients:
Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and thyme to the skillet. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is well combined. Once mixed, remove the skillet from heat.
5. Preparing the Crockpot:
Now, place the seared chicken thighs in the crockpot and pour the creamy sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated. Top with the thin lemon slices for added flavor!
6. Cooking:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken easily shreds with a fork!
7. Finishing Touches:
Before serving, garnish the dish with fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you’d like a little heat.
8. Serving:
Serve your rich, creamy Crockpot Marry Me Chicken hot over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up that wonderful sauce. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Happy cooking! This dish might just make someone propose! 😉
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking! The best way is to thaw overnight in the fridge or use the cold-water method by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for a few hours.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut milk. Just be aware that these options may slightly alter the creaminess and flavor of the sauce.
How Should Leftovers Be Stored?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. You might need to add a splash of chicken broth or milk to revive the creaminess!
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you enjoy a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce, or even diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick. Adjust the amount to suit your taste!