Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for an effortlessly delicious dinner that feels like a warm, comforting hug, you’ve got to try this Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe. I absolutely love how the creamy sauce blends with the tender chicken, and honestly, it’s one of those dishes that keeps my family coming back for seconds. Whether you’re a slow-cooker newbie or a seasoned pro, this recipe is super forgiving and perfect for busy days when you want flavor without fuss. Stick with me—I’ll walk you through everything to make sure your dinner turns out fan-freaking-tastic!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Set It and Forget It: You simply prep, pour, and let the slow cooker work its magic while you take a break.
  • Creamy, Dreamy Sauce: The rich blend of sun-dried tomatoes, cream, and Parmesan makes every bite irresistible.
  • Tender Chicken Every Time: Cooking low and slow guarantees juicy, tender chicken breasts that never dry out.
  • Easy to Customize: You can tweak ingredients or sides easily to fit your family’s tastes or dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe come together in perfect harmony. They’re simple, easy to find, and combine to make that dreamy sauce that you’ll want to spoon over everything. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some quick tips about each.

  • Chicken breasts: Skin-on or skinless works fine; the slow cooker keeps them juicy either way.
  • Italian seasoning: Adds that traditional herb flavor without needing a handful of fresh herbs.
  • Butter: Provides a wonderful base for browning and richness—don’t skip it!
  • Olive oil: Optional, but it helps with browning if you’re frying the chicken before slow cooking.
  • White wine or chicken broth: White wine adds nice depth, but chicken broth works well too for a savory base.
  • Sun-dried tomatoes: Intensely flavorful and slightly sweet — if you need a low-carb tweak, fresh tomatoes can be a great swap.
  • Sweet paprika & garlic granules: These spices add warmth and enhance the sauce’s complexity.
  • Chicken bouillon: Important if you’re using wine, to boost that savory hit.
  • Sour cream or heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce decadently creamy—full-fat versions give the best results.
  • Cornstarch slurry (optional): Helpful if you want a thicker sauce without tweaking the cream.
  • Parmesan cheese: Adds umami and melty cheesiness that’s just irresistible.
  • Fresh parsley or basil: Brightens the dish and adds a fresh-herb finish.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love how versatile this Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe is. I often switch things up depending on what’s in my fridge or to suit different dietary needs—feel free to make it your own!

  • Low-carb version: Swap sun-dried tomatoes for fresh cherry tomatoes and serve over cauliflower mash instead of rice or noodles—I’ve done this when cutting carbs, and it’s just as comforting.
  • Dairy-free option: Use coconut cream instead of sour cream or heavy cream, and skip the Parmesan. The flavor changes but it’s still creamy and delicious.
  • Spicy twist: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a bit of smoked paprika—my family loves the extra kick this way.
  • Herb swaps: Try fresh thyme or tarragon instead of parsley for a different herbal note.

How to Make Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Season and Sear Your Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts well with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. I love this step since it builds the base flavor right away. Then, heat the butter (and olive oil if using) in a pan until hot and brown the chicken skin-side down until it’s golden—this step adds so much tasty depth. If your crock pot has a browning feature, you can do it there to save a pan!

Step 2: Build Your Flavor Base

Transfer the chicken to your slow cooker if you seared it in a pan. Pour in the white wine and water, or chicken broth if you aren’t using wine. Sprinkle on the paprika, garlic granules, and chicken bouillon powder if you chose wine, then scatter in those tangy sun-dried tomatoes—this combination is what makes the sauce sing.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection

Cover your crock pot and cook on LOW for 90 minutes to 2 hours. I found that cooking on HIGH can sometimes make the chicken tough, so patience here really pays off. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C)—I always use a meat thermometer just to be sure.

Step 4: Finish With Cream and Cheese

Once the chicken is tender, push it to one side of the crock pot. Stir in the sour cream or heavy cream until the sauce is luxuriously smooth. Toss in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley (or basil) to finish it off. If your sauce isn’t thick enough for your liking, stir in a cornstarch slurry about 10 minutes before the end of cooking—just remember to let it heat through so the sauce thickens properly.

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Pro Tips for Making Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

  • Sear for Flavor: Browning the chicken first locks in juices and adds a gorgeous golden color that makes a difference in taste and appearance.
  • Low and Slow is Key: Cooking on low heat is what keeps your chicken tender and prevents it from drying out.
  • Use a Thermometer: My go-to tool—never guess doneness and you’ll avoid overcooking every time.
  • Add Cornstarch Carefully: Mix cornstarch well with cold water before adding to avoid lumps and make your sauce silky smooth.

How to Serve Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

A white oval plate with blue floral patterns holds four browned pieces of cooked meat on top of a creamy sauce with small chunks of orange mushrooms and bits of herbs. The sauce is light yellow with spaces of green herbs sprinkled around. A silver spoon rests on the right side of the plate, partially in the sauce. The plate is on a soft pink surface with a beige knitted cloth on the upper right side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle extra fresh parsley or chopped basil over the finished dish—it adds a fresh pop of color and brightness. A little extra Parmesan on top never hurts either if you’re feeling indulgent.

Side Dishes

This chicken is so versatile—I usually serve mine over buttery mashed potatoes or creamy risotto to soak up the sauce. Sometimes I go with buttered noodles or a simple side of steamed green beans for a lighter touch. Rice pilaf works incredibly well, too!

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve layered this chicken on top of a bed of garlic sautéed spinach and sprinkled toasted pine nuts over everything. It feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to pull off, and everyone always asks for the recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge, and it keeps beautifully for up to 4 days. The sauce thickens as it chills, which I actually prefer—it tastes even richer the next day.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well if you want to prepare ahead. Just cool completely, then pack chicken and sauce into freezer-safe containers. When you thaw it, the texture and flavor are still excellent—just be sure to reheat gently to keep the chicken tender.

Reheating

I reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce looks too thick. This helps the chicken stay juicy and the sauce nice and creamy without breaking or curdling.

FAQs

  1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe?

    Absolutely! Chicken thighs will be even juicier and more forgiving in the slow cooker. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed, as thighs may cook a bit faster or become extra tender.

  2. Is it necessary to brown the chicken before slow cooking?

    While it’s optional, I really recommend browning the chicken first to boost flavor and texture. It adds a wonderful golden crust and helps lock in juices, making your Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe taste next level.

  3. Can I make this recipe without alcohol?

    Yes! If you prefer to avoid white wine, simply substitute with chicken broth, water, or a non-alcoholic cooking wine. Just add chicken bouillon powder or a stock cube to keep the flavor rich.

  4. How do I thicken the sauce without cornstarch?

    If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use xanthan gum or cook the sauce uncovered for a bit at the end to evaporate some liquid. I’ve found that full-fat sour cream or heavy cream alone usually gives good thickness too.

Final Thoughts

This Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe has definitely earned a spot in my regular dinner lineup because it’s just so foolproof and full of flavor. I love how easy it is to throw together and how it feels fancy enough for company but perfect for busy weeknights. If you’re ready for a creamy, comforting dish that’ll wow everyone at your table, trust me—you’ve got to give this one a try. I can’t wait to hear what you think after you make it!

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Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 67 reviews
  • Author: Jessica
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a comforting, creamy slow-cooked chicken dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a flavorful sauce of white wine or chicken broth, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, paprika, and rich cream, finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. Perfect for an easy, hearty meal served over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes.


Ingredients

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 4 chicken breasts, skin on or skinless
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Cooking Base

  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp olive oil (optional)
  • ½ cup (120ml) white wine + ½ cup water OR 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
  • 4 tbsp diced sun-dried tomatoes (drained)
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic granules
  • 1 tsp chicken bouillon (if using wine)

Creamy Sauce

  • 1 cup (225g) sour cream or heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch diluted in 2 tbsp cold water (optional, for thickening)
  • 2-3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp flat leaf parsley or fresh basil, chopped


Instructions

  1. Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season them evenly with salt, pepper, and the Italian seasoning to build the base flavor.
  2. Brown the chicken: Heat butter and olive oil in a pan or directly in the slow cooker if it has a browning function. Pan-fry the chicken breasts skin side down until golden brown. This step locks in moisture and adds depth to the dish.
  3. Prepare the cooking liquid: Turn the chicken breasts over and transfer to the slow cooker if not already cooked there. Pour in the white wine and water combination or chicken broth. Season with sweet paprika, garlic granules, and add the diced sun-dried tomatoes. If using wine, add chicken bouillon for depth.
  4. Slow cook the chicken: Cover and cook on the LOW setting for 90 minutes to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C), ensuring it is fully cooked and tender.
  5. Thicken the sauce (optional): About 10 minutes before the cooking time is complete, if you want a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry and heat through to activate and thicken the sauce. This is optional, especially if using sour cream, which already thickens the sauce.
  6. Add cream and cheese: Push the chicken to one side of the slow cooker and stir in the sour cream or heavy cream until well incorporated. Then mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley or basil to enrich and brighten the sauce.
  7. Serve: Serve the creamy chicken over your choice of rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes for a wholesome meal.

Notes

  • Cooking on the high setting is not recommended as it can make the chicken breasts tough.
  • Use full-fat sour cream or heavy cream for the best flavor and texture in the sauce.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, use the cornstarch slurry or xanthan gum as an alternative thickener.
  • If using white wine instead of broth, add chicken bouillon powder or half a stock cube to enhance the flavor.
  • This recipe is relatively low carb except for the sun-dried tomatoes; for a low-carb variation, substitute fresh tomatoes and serve with cauliflower mash or steamed greens.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (approx. 1/4 recipe)
  • Calories: 400 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg

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