Introduction
Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and creamy sauce, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or special occasions. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also requires minimal hands-on time, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal with little effort. The blend of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan cheese creates a flavor profile that is sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
Total Time: 4-5 hours 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Enjoy your Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Season the Chicken:
– Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Sear the Chicken (Optional):
– In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter.
– Add the chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until lightly browned. This step enhances flavor but can be skipped if preferred.
Prepare the Sauce:
– In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken broth, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to ensure the Parmesan is fully incorporated.
Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
– Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
– Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken.
– Sprinkle the chopped sun-dried tomatoes evenly over the top.
Cook:
– Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Finish the Sauce:
– About 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, stir the sauce gently. If the sauce appears too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce to thicken.
Serve:
– Once cooked, serve the chicken breasts with the creamy sauce spooned over the top.
– Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
Notes
Serving Suggestions:
– Serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to complement the creamy sauce.
– Pair with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Cook Techniques
Seasoning the Chicken
Seasoning is crucial for enhancing the overall flavor of the dish. Use salt and pepper generously to season both sides of the chicken breasts before cooking.
Searing the Chicken
Searing the chicken in a skillet before slow cooking adds a rich flavor and color. This step is optional but recommended for added depth.
Preparing the Sauce
Mixing the sauce ingredients thoroughly ensures an even flavor throughout the dish. Make sure the Parmesan cheese is fully incorporated for a smooth texture.
Slow Cooking
Cooking the chicken slowly allows it to become tender and absorb the flavors of the sauce. Adjust the cooking time according to the setting you choose on your slow cooker.
Thickening the Sauce
If the sauce is too thin, create a slurry with cornstarch and water to thicken it toward the end of the cooking time, ensuring a creamy consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serving the dish over a carbohydrate like pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes helps to soak up the creamy sauce, making for a more satisfying meal.
FAQ
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but you may need to adjust the cooking time, as bone-in pieces may take longer to cook.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half, coconut cream, or a combination of milk and butter for a lighter option, though results may vary.
Is it necessary to sear the chicken?
No, searing is optional. Skipping this step will still yield a delicious dish, but searing adds additional flavor.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, the leftovers can be frozen. Ensure the dish is cooled completely before transferring to an airtight container for freezing.
How can I make it less spicy?
If you prefer a milder dish, simply omit the red pepper flakes from the recipe.
Conclusion
The Creamy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and flavorful creamy sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner and can easily impress your loved ones. With minimal preparation and the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe makes for an enjoyable cooking experience and a satisfying meal.
Additional Flavor Variations
Consider adding sliced mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for an earthy element. You can also experiment with different herbs such as rosemary or thyme for added depth of flavor.
Serving Ideas
Serve the creamy chicken over garlic bread for a decadent twist or in taco shells with fresh avocado and salsa for a fusion flair.
Side Pairings
Pair this dish with roasted asparagus, green beans, or a quinoa salad to enhance the meal’s overall healthiness and taste.
Alternative Proteins
Try using pork chops or turkey breasts instead of chicken for a different protein option while maintaining the same creamy sauce concept.
Slow Cooker Variations
Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version or a lighter alternative for those watching their calorie intake.
Quick Cooking Method
If you’re short on time, consider making this recipe in an Instant Pot, reducing the cooking time significantly while still delivering a delicious result.
