This crock pot marry me chicken dish is easy to make with a rich garlic parmesan cream sauce and Italian herbs. It’s a cozy weeknight meal that’s ready when you walk through the door!
Everyone needs a simple chicken breast crockpot recipes that can be made at a moment’s notice. This is a rich and creamy comfort food that can be served on its own with crusty bread or over pasta for the ultimate easy crockpot dinners experience!
There are so many ways to make crockpot chicken breast recipes, but this one stands out with its incredible creamy sauce that develops during the slow cooking process. The chicken becomes incredibly tender while the sauce thickens to perfection, creating one of the most beloved chicken crockpot recipes easy options you’ll ever try.
Cuisine: American
Category: Main Dish
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4-6 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes – 6 hours 15 minutes
Serves: 6 people
Why I Love This Recipe
- Family-friendly. Everyone loves the creamy, cheesy goodness of this easy slow cooker chicken dish!
- Versatile. Ready when you need it, as a main dish, over pasta, or with rice for endless crockpot dishes variations.
- Minimal prep. Just 15 minutes of prep time makes this perfect for busy schedules and hectic weeknights.
This chicken slow cooker recipes masterpiece gets its name because it’s so delicious, it might just inspire a marriage proposal! The combination of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and that incredible creamy sauce creates a restaurant-quality meal right in your slow cooker.
INGREDIENTS
For the Chicken:
- 4-6 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2-2.5 lbs)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (from sun-dried tomato jar)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
For Serving:
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Extra parmesan cheese for serving
- Cooked pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes
PREPARATION
- Season the chicken by patting chicken breasts dry and seasoning both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. This step ensures flavorful crockpot chicken breast results.
- Prepare cream cheese mixture by combining softened cream cheese, heavy cream, chicken broth, and minced garlic in a large bowl. Whisk until smooth and well combined – this forms the base of your incredible sauce.
- Add aromatics by mixing in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olive oil from the jar, dried basil, oregano, paprika, and red pepper flakes if using. The sun-dried tomatoes add amazing depth to this easy slow cooker chicken recipe.
- Layer in slow cooker by placing seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of your crock pot. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated.
- Cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork. Don’t lift the lid frequently – this chicken slow cooker recipes magic happens with consistent heat.
- Add parmesan cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Stir gently to incorporate the cheese into the sauce without breaking up the chicken too much.
- Check for doneness by ensuring internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken shreds easily. The sauce should be creamy and coat the back of a spoon beautifully.
- Rest and serve by letting the dish sit for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to settle.
- Garnish and enjoy with fresh basil leaves and extra parmesan cheese. Serve over your favorite pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up that incredible sauce!
Recipe Success Tips
The secret to perfect crock pot marry me chicken lies in using the right cream cheese consistency. Make sure it’s completely softened before mixing – this prevents lumpy sauce and ensures smooth, creamy results.
Don’t skip seasoning the chicken first! This step creates layers of flavor that make this chicken crockpot recipes easy option so much more delicious than plain slow cooker chicken.
For the best texture in your crockpot dishes, avoid opening the lid during cooking. Each peek releases steam and extends cooking time. Trust the process – your kitchen will smell amazing when it’s ready!
Using freshly grated parmesan cheese makes a noticeable difference in both flavor and texture compared to pre-grated options. It melts more smoothly and creates that signature creamy consistency.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
- 385 calories per serving
- 38g protein per serving
- 8g carbs per serving
- 22g fat per serving
- 2g fiber per serving
This easy slow cooker chicken recipe provides excellent protein content while delivering rich, satisfying flavors. The nutrition profile makes it perfect for families looking for hearty dinner recipes crockpot options that fuel busy lifestyles.
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
Chicken: While chicken breasts work beautifully, chicken thighs create an even more tender result in crockpot chicken breast recipes. If using thighs, increase cooking time by 30-45 minutes.
Cream cheese: Full-fat cream cheese works best for the smoothest sauce. Light cream cheese can be substituted but may result in a slightly thinner consistency.
Heavy cream: You can replace heavy whipping cream with half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich. Whole milk works in a pinch but will create a thinner sauce.
Sun-dried tomatoes: Use the oil-packed variety for best flavor. If using dry-packed, rehydrate them in warm water for 10 minutes before chopping.
Parmesan cheese: For best melt and taste, freshly grate your own! Pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce texture.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Sometimes all you want is this crock pot marry me chicken served simply over buttered noodles. Other times, a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad rounds out the meal perfectly.
For easy crockpot dinners that feel more substantial, serve over creamy mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or your favorite pasta shape. The versatility makes this recipe perfect for different occasions and preferences.
Protein variations: Try this recipe with pork tenderloin or even salmon fillets for exciting twists on the classic. Adjust cooking times accordingly – pork needs similar timing, while fish only needs 1-2 hours on low.
Vegetable additions: Mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers work beautifully added during the last hour of cooking. These additions make your crockpot recipes slow cooker meals even more nutritious and colorful.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This chicken slow cooker recipes gem is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble everything except the parmesan cheese up to 24 hours in advance. Store in the refrigerator and add 30 minutes to cooking time if starting from cold.
Freezer prep works wonderfully – combine all ingredients except cream and parmesan in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months, thaw overnight, then add cream and cook as directed.
Storage: Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in airtight containers. The flavors actually improve overnight, making this perfect for meal planning.
Reheating: Gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce seems too thick. The chicken will be just as tender as when first made.
Recipe Tips and Variations
- Reserve some pasta water if serving over noodles – use it to thin the sauce if needed. Adding more chicken broth works too.
- Add red pepper flakes for heat, or keep it mild for sensitive palates.
- Finish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to brighten up the rich flavors.
- Toss in vegetables like cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or spinach during the last hour of cooking.
For a lighter version of this easy crockpot dinners favorite, substitute Greek yogurt for half the cream cheese. The tanginess adds a nice contrast to the rich flavors.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
While fresh chicken works best, you can use frozen crockpot chicken breast pieces. Increase cooking time to 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.
Why is my sauce too thin or too thick?
Sauce consistency depends on several factors. If too thin, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes to allow evaporation. If too thick, stir in additional chicken broth or cream until you reach the desired consistency.
Can I double this recipe for meal prep?
Absolutely! This chicken crockpot recipes easy option doubles beautifully. Use a larger slow cooker (6-8 quart) and increase cooking time by 30-60 minutes. Perfect for feeding larger families or meal prep sessions.
What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
Regular diced tomatoes work as a substitute, though the flavor will be milder. You could also use roasted red peppers for a different but equally delicious variation of this crockpot dishes favorite.
How do I prevent the cream cheese from curdling?
Make sure the cream cheese is completely softened before mixing, and avoid cooking on high heat if your slow cooker runs hot. Adding the cream cheese gradually and whisking well prevents separation in easy slow cooker chicken recipes.
Why This Recipe Has Become a Family Favorite
After trying countless dinner recipes crockpot options, this crock pot marry me chicken has earned its permanent spot in our weekly rotation. The combination of minimal prep work and incredible results makes it perfect for busy families who refuse to compromise on flavor.
What really sets this chicken slow cooker recipes apart is how the sauce develops during the long, slow cooking process. The cream cheese melts into silky perfection, the garlic becomes mellow and sweet, and the sun-dried tomatoes add bursts of concentrated flavor throughout.
The fact that it’s essentially a complete meal with just some pasta or rice makes dinner planning effortless. Less stress, more time with family, and absolutely delicious results – that’s what great crockpot recipes slow cooker meals should deliver.
Plus, the aroma that fills your house while this cooks is absolutely incredible. There’s something magical about coming home to that amazing smell and knowing dinner is completely ready to serve!
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re looking for easy crockpot dinners for busy weeknights or something special enough for entertaining, this crock pot marry me chicken fits the bill perfectly. The elegant flavors and restaurant-quality results make it suitable for company, while the simple preparation makes it accessible for everyday cooking.
The recipe scales easily for larger gatherings, and the slow cooker keeps everything warm for serving. It’s become my go-to for potluck dinners and family gatherings because everyone always asks for the recipe!
For date nights at home, this chicken breast crockpot recipes option creates a romantic, restaurant-quality meal without the stress of complicated cooking. Just add some wine and candlelight!
I hope this crock pot marry me chicken recipe brings as much joy and convenience to your kitchen as it has to mine! There’s something truly special about a recipe that’s both foolproof and absolutely delicious – and this one definitely delivers on both counts.
Share Your Slow Cooker Success!
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Author: Olyvia T.
