Name: How to Make American Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken in 3 Steps
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free); 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for dairy-free); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice); 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; Extra grated Parmesan cheese

Table of Contents

American Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken

Have you ever wondered if a single dish could make someone fall head over heels in love? Meet “Marry Me Chicken,” a delicious dish that supposedly earned its name from its ability to win hearts. It’s one of the most beloved dishes in American cuisine. And guess what? We’re making it even easier by using an American crock pot! Whether you’re a busy parent, a student on a budget, or just someone who loves a good meal without the hassle, this recipe is for you. Keep reading to discover how to make this dreamy dish in three simple steps.

Why This Recipe is Special

Time Requirement: Ready in just 4-6 hours (mostly hands-off).
Difficulty Level: Beginner-friendly, with no fancy skills required.

This recipe is special because it combines creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors in one pot, saving you time and effort. The crock pot does all the hard work, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or even meal prep. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can customize it to suit your taste or diet. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing guests, this dish will become a favorite in no time.

Essential Ingredients

To prepare this enchanted cuisine, you will need the following ingredients:

Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for convenience. They absorb all the wonderful flavors and cook uniformly.
- Substitution: Chicken thighs work just as well for a juicier option.
Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creaminess.
- Substitution: Half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter option.
Parmesan Cheese: Brings a nutty, salty flavor. Pre-grated is fine in an emergency, but freshly grated is preferable.
- Substitution: Try pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free twist.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add a tangy, chewy texture that makes this dish stand out.
- Substitution: Roasted red peppers for a milder flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth.
- Substitution: Garlic powder or jarred minced garlic.
Chicken Broth: Preserves the dish’s flavor and moisture content.
Italian Seasoning: a mixture of herbs, such as basil, thyme, and oregano.
Spinach (Optional): Adds a pop of color and nutrients.

Each ingredient plays a role in creating layers of flavor, so don’t skip them!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Before you begin, gather all your ingredients. This will save time and prevent stress during cooking. Here’s how to prep:

Use a little salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to lightly season the chicken breasts.
Wash and cut the spinach if it’s fresh.
Drain and chop the sun-dried tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
Mince your garlic (or measure out a teaspoon of jarred garlic).

Step 2: Layer in the Crock Pot

Now comes the fun part—building your dish! Follow these steps:

Put the chicken breasts in the crock pot toward the bottom.
Sprinkle the minced garlic over the chicken.
Add the sun-dried tomatoes evenly on top.
To add moisture, pour in a cup of chicken broth.
Set your crock pot to low heat and let it cook for 4-6 hours (or high heat for 2-3 hours if you’re short on time).

Pro Tip: Avoid lifting the lid while cooking—it slows down the process and lets heat escape.

Step 3: Finish and Serve

After the chicken has finished cooking, use two forks to shred it. Next:

Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens slightly.
Add fresh spinach if desired, letting it wilt in the residual heat.
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Assembly and Presentation Tips

To serve, spoon the chicken and sauce over cooked pasta, mashed potatoes, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a restaurant-quality touch.

For a family-style presentation, transfer everything to a large serving dish and let everyone help themselves. The vibrant red tomatoes, green spinach, and creamy sauce create a feast for the eyes!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This recipe is ideal for meal prep because it keeps wonderfully. Here’s how to store and reheat:

Refrigeration: Keep leftovers for up to three or four days in an airtight container.
Freezing: Freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Before reheating, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating: Keep it wet by slightly warming it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little cream or broth.

Recipe Variations

Feeling adventurous? Try these creative twists:

Spicy Kick: For heat, add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
Veggie Boost: Throw in mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
Protein Swap: Use turkey cutlets instead of chicken.
Low-Carb Option: Serve over zoodles or sautéed greens.

The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion

There you have it—a dish so good, it might just make someone propose! With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and bold flavors, American Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken is a winner every time. Best of all, it’s easy enough for beginners yet impressive enough for special occasions. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your crock pot and get cooking—you won’t regret it!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes! Add an extra hour to the cooking time, and skip seasoning until after cooking to prevent spice burn.

2. Is this dish healthy?

While it’s rich, you can lighten it up with low-fat cream or dairy-free alternatives. Plus, adding spinach and serving over veggies makes it more nutritious.