Name: Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 240 min
Total time: 255 min
Ingredients: 4 boneless (skinless chicken breasts); Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for browning); 1 jar (about 7–8 ounces sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and roughly chopped); 4 garlic cloves (minced); 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh basil or parsley (chopped, for garnish)

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Imagine coming home to a comforting, home-cooked meal that practically makes itself. This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is that effortless dinner solution—juicy chicken breasts simmered slowly in a sumptuous creamy sauce bursting with the vibrant flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and fragrant herbs. It's indulgence meets convenience in the best possible way.

Perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend feast, this dish delivers tender, melt-in-your-mouth chicken infused with savory garlic and Italian seasonings. The luscious sauce, enriched with Parmesan and red pepper flakes, creates a rich finish that pairs beautifully with your favorite sides.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Set it and forget it: The slow cooker hands-off method means minimal prep with maximum flavor.
Creamy and comforting: The sauce is rich yet balanced with tangy sun-dried tomatoes and hints of spice.
Versatile serving: Goes perfectly over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender chicken breasts provide the perfect, lean protein base for slow cooking to juicy perfection.
Salt & freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance and bring out the natural flavors of the chicken.
1 tsp garlic powder: Adds a warm, mellow garlic flavor that melds beautifully into the sauce and chicken.
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb blend including oregano, basil, and thyme that infuses the dish with classic Italian aromas.
1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for browning): Browning the chicken gives it extra depth and caramelization before slow cooking.
1 jar (≈ 200–250 g) sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), drained and roughly chopped: Adds a tangy sweetness and rich umami intensity—using oil-packed tomatoes ensures extra moisture and flavor.
4 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic packs a punch and elevates the sauce with vibrant aroma and taste.
1 cup chicken broth: Provides a savory base that keeps the chicken moist while cooking and enriches the sauce.
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half): Creates a velvety smooth, creamy texture for the sauce; half-and-half is a lighter alternative.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that thickens and enriches the sauce.
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Introduces a subtle heat and complexity to balance the creamy richness.
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish): Brightens the finished dish with fresh herbal notes and appealing color contrast.

Instructions

Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. This step is crucial to infuse the chicken with foundational flavors right from the start, ensuring every bite is well-seasoned and tasty.
Optional Browning: For an added layer of flavor, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes on each side. Browning caramelizes the proteins and creates delicious crusty edges, adding depth to the final dish. Then transfer the chicken to your crockpot.
Add Sauce Components: Layer the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth gently over everything. These ingredients form the base of the sauce and contribute tangy, savory notes that soak into the meat during cooking.
Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4–6 hours or on high for 2–3 hours. Slow cooking allows the chicken to become incredibly tender as it absorbs the flavors of the broth, tomatoes, and herbs. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Finish the Sauce: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes if using. This enriches the sauce, making it creamy and indulgent. Cover again and continue cooking until warmed through and slightly thickened, perfect for spooning over your serving.
Serve: Garnish the dish with freshly chopped basil or parsley just before serving. The fresh herbs add a vibrant color and fresh flavor contrast to the rich sauce. Serve the chicken over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to make a hearty and satisfying meal.

You Must Know

Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for richer flavor; if using dry ones, rehydrate them in warm water first.
Choosing half-and-half instead of heavy cream creates a lighter, less dense sauce without sacrificing creaminess.
Fresh thyme or oregano can be excellent alternatives to Italian seasoning for different herb nuances.
Leftover sauce can be thickened with a small cornstarch slurry if desired before serving.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave to prevent the cream sauce from separating. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken and sauce for up to 2 months.

Serving Suggestions

This rich, creamy chicken pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a crisp green salad to balance the indulgence. Serve it over buttery mashed potatoes, al dente pasta, or steamed rice for a comforting, well-rounded meal.

Professional Tips

For best texture, avoid overcooking the chicken—use a slow cooker with timer settings if possible.
Browning the chicken is optional but adds depth; if short on time, you can skip this step.
Adjust red pepper flakes according to your heat preference for a more personalized flavor.
Fresh herbs sprinkled at the end boost aroma and freshness, so don't skip the garnish.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?: Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs are an excellent substitute and tend to stay moister during slow cooking. Adjust cooking time slightly if needed.
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?: You can simmer it on the stovetop in a covered pot over low heat for about 1–1.5 hours until chicken is tender, stirring occasionally.
Is it possible to make this dairy-free?: Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative, but the flavor and texture will be different.
How do I reheat leftovers without curdling the sauce?: Reheat gently over low heat on the stove, stirring frequently. Avoid high heat to prevent the cream from separating.
Can this recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?: Absolutely! Use a larger slow cooker or cook in batches. Just ensure not to overcrowd the pot for even cooking.
What are good side dishes to serve with this chicken?: Steamed vegetables, garlic bread, a simple green salad, or creamy mashed potatoes work wonderfully with this dish.