Marry Me Chicken in the Crockpot – Creamy Dreamy Dinner

If you’re seeking a dish that feels romantic yet requires little effort, this Marry Me Chicken in the Crockpot is your answer. Creamy, rich, tangy from sun‑dried tomatoes, and loaded with Parmesan, it’s one of those “wow” dinners you can set in the morning and forget. When dinner hour comes, you’ll have a restaurant‑style dish ready to serve. It’s a lovely variation on slow cooker favorites like Marry Me Chicken Crockpot Edition, now streamlined for crockpot ease.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts	1.5 lb (≈ 680 g)
Sun‑dried tomatoes, chopped (oil‑packed or dry, rehydrated)	½ cup
Minced garlic cloves	3 cloves
Chicken broth	1 cup (≈ 240 ml)
Heavy cream	½ cup (≈ 120 ml)
Grated Parmesan cheese	⅓ to ½ cup
Italian seasoning (or dried basil/oregano mix)	1 tsp
Butter, cubed	2 Tbsp
Salt & black pepper	To taste
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (garnish)	a few Tbsp

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

Chicken breasts:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for a lean, tender finish. You can also use boneless thighs if you prefer a juicier, more flavorful cut they’re slightly fattier but stay moist during long cooking times.

Sun-dried tomatoes:
Oil-packed varieties bring a deeper flavor, but be sure to drain off excess oil to prevent the sauce from becoming greasy. If using dry sun-dried tomatoes, rehydrate them in warm water for 10–15 minutes before chopping. These add a sweet-tangy punch that balances the richness of the cream.

Minced garlic:
Freshly minced garlic offers the boldest flavor. For a milder, roasted taste, use garlic paste or roasted garlic cloves.

Chicken broth:
Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to better control the saltiness. For extra flavor, you can use bone broth or a bouillon cube dissolved in hot water.

Heavy cream:
This gives the sauce its luxurious texture. You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version, or use full-fat coconut milk (unsweetened) for a dairy-free option.

Parmesan cheese:
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor pre-shredded cheese may contain anti-caking agents that affect the sauce’s texture.

Italian seasoning:
If you don’t have a blend, combine equal parts dried basil, oregano, and thyme. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a subtle heat.

Butter:
Adds silkiness and helps emulsify the cream and broth into a smooth sauce. Use unsalted to better manage salt levels.

Fresh herbs:
Basil adds sweetness and an aromatic finish. Parsley works as a clean, mild garnish. You can use either or both or skip them if you’re in a pinch.

How to Make Marry Me Chicken in the Crockpot (Step-by-Step)

Follow these easy instructions to make a romantic, restaurant-worthy chicken dinner right in your slow cooker. With just a few minutes of prep and minimal cleanup, this creamy chicken dish practically cooks itself.

Step 1: Prepare Your Crockpot

Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker insert with cooking spray, olive oil, or butter. You can also use a slow cooker liner for quick cleanup. This helps prevent sticking and makes serving easier.

Step 2: Add the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker. If they’re extra thick, consider slicing them in half horizontally for faster, more even cooking. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Step 3: Top with Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Sprinkle the minced garlic over the seasoned chicken. Then add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes evenly on top. This layering helps distribute flavor directly onto the meat while it cooks.

Tip: If using oil-packed tomatoes, lightly pat them with a paper towel to remove excess oil before chopping.

Step 4: Mix the Creamy Sauce

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, heavy cream, cubed butter, and about half of the Parmesan cheese. Stir until mostly smooth don’t worry if the butter hasn’t fully melted yet; it will during cooking.

This creamy broth base is what gives the dish its signature richness and depth of flavor.

Step 5: Pour Sauce Over the Chicken

Carefully pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, making sure it evenly covers all the meat and tomatoes. The sauce will thicken as it simmers in the crockpot.

Step 6: Cover and Cook

Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook:

• On LOW for 5 to 6 hours
• Or on HIGH for 2½ to 3 hours

You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Avoid lifting the lid during cooking, as this lets heat escape and increases cook time.

Note: If you’re using chicken thighs, they may require slightly less time due to higher fat content.

Step 7: Add the Remaining Parmesan

Once the chicken is fully cooked, gently stir the sauce. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Cover the crockpot again and let it sit for about 10 more minutes, or until the cheese melts into the sauce.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, top with freshly chopped basil or parsley. This adds brightness and a pop of color that balances the richness of the dish.

Serve hot over:

• Fettuccine, linguine, or your favorite pasta
• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Steamed rice or cauliflower rice
• Crusty bread for dipping

Estimated Nutrition (per serving, 6 servings)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	≈ 500–550 kcal
Protein	≈ 35–38 g
Carbohydrates	≈ 6–8 g
Total Fat	≈ 32–35 g
Sodium	Moderate to high (depending on tomatoes and broth)

Serving Suggestions for Marry Me Chicken

Wondering what to serve with Crockpot Marry Me Chicken? This rich, creamy, and flavorful dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides from pasta and mashed potatoes to light vegetables and warm bread. Here are the best ways to round out your meal:

Over Pasta (Classic & Comforting)

Serve this dish over a bed of freshly cooked pasta to soak up all the creamy sauce. Fettuccine and linguine are traditional choices, but penne, rigatoni, or even tagliatelle also work beautifully.

Pro Tip: Cook the pasta al dente and toss it with a bit of olive oil or butter before serving so it doesn’t stick. Ladle the chicken and sauce directly on top for an easy one-plate meal.

On Creamy Mashed Potatoes

For a heartier, cozy option, plate the chicken over fluffy mashed potatoes. The buttery potatoes complement the rich sauce and make this dish extra indulgent.

Make it special: Try garlic mashed potatoes or a blend of russet and Yukon gold for added flavor.

With Steamed Rice or Cauliflower Rice

If you’re looking for a gluten-free or low-carb option, serve Marry Me Chicken over steamed white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice. The grains help absorb the sauce without overpowering the dish.

This is a great choice for meal prep or lighter weekday dinners.

With Roasted or Steamed Vegetables

Balance the richness of the dish with simple sides like:

• Steamed green beans
• Roasted asparagus with lemon zest
• Garlic butter broccoli
• Sautéed spinach or kale

These vegetables add freshness and texture to the plate, while keeping the overall meal well-rounded and nutritious.

Alongside Crusty Garlic Bread

A warm piece of crusty bread is perfect for mopping up every last bit of the creamy Parmesan sauce. Garlic bread, dinner rolls, or even sourdough make excellent side options.

Hosting guests? Toast baguette slices with olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a quick, elegant side.

Add a Simple Salad (Optional)

To brighten up the plate, serve with a crisp salad on the side. Try:

• Arugula with shaved Parmesan and lemon vinaigrette
• Caesar salad with crunchy croutons
• Mixed greens with balsamic glaze and cherry tomatoes

This adds contrast and balances the richness of the main dish.

If you like this creamy, dreamy style, also check out Easy Ranch Chicken Crockpot or revisit how we layer flavors in Dump & Go Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes.

Tips & Variations

Use Chicken Thighs for Richer Flavor

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative to breasts. They’re more forgiving in the slow cooker and add extra juiciness and flavor thanks to their higher fat content. Cook time remains the same.

Add Spinach or Mushrooms for Extra Nutrition

Toss in a handful of baby spinach or sliced mushrooms during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Spinach wilts beautifully into the creamy sauce, and mushrooms add an earthy depth that complements the Parmesan and sun-dried tomatoes.

You can also add kale, zucchini, or roasted red peppers if you want a veggie-forward version.

Boost Flavor with Garlic Variations

Want a deeper, more gourmet garlic flavor? Swap the fresh garlic for:

• Roasted garlic cloves
• Garlic confit
• Garlic paste (smooth and mellow)

These add a rich, umami depth to the sauce without overpowering it.

Add Heat with a Spicy Twist

If you enjoy a little kick, try one of these:

• Add ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes
• Stir in a teaspoon of Calabrian chili paste
• Mix in a splash of hot sauce before serving

This creates a “Spicy Marry Me Chicken” variation that pairs beautifully with creamy elements.

Fresh Herbs Make a Big Difference

While dried Italian seasoning works well during cooking, garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving adds a fresh, fragrant finish. You can also try:

• Fresh thyme
• Chopped chives
• Oregano leaves

Use herbs generously to elevate the presentation and brighten the flavors.

Make It Lighter or Dairy-Free

To reduce calories or make this recipe dairy-free:

• Swap heavy cream for unsweetened full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream
• Use plant-based Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free cheese flavor
• Replace butter with olive oil or plant-based margarine

The texture will still be creamy and luxurious, especially if served with a starch to soak up the sauce.

Adjust the Sauce Consistency

If the sauce is too thin:

• Remove the lid during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking to let it reduce
• Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tsp water) to thicken quickly

If it’s too thick after cooking or reheating:

• Add a splash of broth, cream, or pasta water to loosen it

If you love this creamy crockpot chicken recipe, you might also enjoy Crockpot Angel Chicken another rich, flavorful slow-cooked dish perfect for cozy dinners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken delivers romance in a bowl rich, creamy, tangy, and comforting. Let your slow cooker work its magic while flavors meld. Serve it with pasta or potatoes, and you’ve got a dreamy dinner that earns its name.

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