Why Make This Recipe
Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken is a dish that not only tastes incredible but is also delightfully easy to prepare. The combination of tender chicken, rich sauce, and flavorful ingredients makes it a favorite among many home cooks.
This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its creamy texture and tantalizing flavors, Marry Me Chicken is sure to impress your family or guests, leaving them wanting more.
Equipment Needed for Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken
To make Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken, you will need the following equipment:
- A slow cooker
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A small mixing bowl
- A whisk
- A cutting board
- A sharp knife
What You Need to Make Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken
- 1 15-ounce can of tomato sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs)
- 1/3 cup sun dried tomatoes in oil, lightly drained before chopping
- 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 2 cups baby spinach
How to Cook Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Step by Step
To begin, gather all the ingredients and prep the slow cooker. Start by adding the tomato sauce, minced garlic, kosher salt, dried thyme, and black pepper to the slow cooker. Stir the mixture well to ensure that everything is combined evenly.
Next, take a small bowl and whisk together the heavy cream and cornstarch until you achieve a smooth consistency. Once you’ve done this, pour the cream mixture into the slow cooker, continuing to whisk until the sauce is again smooth and well-combined.
Now it’s time to add the chicken. Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs into the slow cooker, making sure that each piece is coated evenly in the delicious sauce. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for about 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked. You can check the temperature to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
After the cooking time has elapsed, remove the chicken pieces from the slow cooker and place them on a cutting board to rest for a few minutes. While the chicken rests, add the sun-dried tomatoes, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and sugar into the sauce in the slow cooker. Stir this mixture until it becomes smooth and well-combined.
Finally, add the baby spinach to the sauce and stir until the spinach wilts, which should only take a minute or two. After this, slice the rested chicken and return it to the sauce to warm up before serving. This dish is perfect over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
How to Make Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken
Making Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken is a simple process that anyone can follow. Just remember to gather your ingredients and equipment beforehand. Start by creating the flavorful sauce inside your slow cooker. Then, get your chicken nicely coated and allow it to cook gently to achieve that tender texture.
The rest is just a matter of combining the additional ingredients until everything melds into a creamy, delicious dish. It’s truly a meal that comes together with very little effort.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken
When serving Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken, presentation is key. Take a plate, and spoon a generous helping of the creamy sauce over your chicken. If you’ve decided to serve it over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes, make sure to place the chicken on top of your starchy base for visual appeal.
Garnishing with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs can elevate the plate even further. If you want to add a colorful touch, some chopped parsley can give the dish a fresh pop.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken
This delightful dish pairs wonderfully with several side items. A light salad with mixed greens can complement the rich flavors of the chicken. Additionally, you could serve roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli for a nutritious option.
For a classic comfort meal, garlic bread or artisan rolls could be the perfect choice. These options help to soak up the delicious sauce and add to the overall dining experience.
How to Store Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken
To store any leftovers from your Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days.
If you want to save it for longer, consider freezing the chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it can last for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken
For the best results when making Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken, choose high-quality ingredients. Fresh garlic and good-quality sun-dried tomatoes can elevate the flavors. Make sure to season the chicken evenly for a well-rounded taste.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a bit more cornstarch to the cream mixture. For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like oregano or basil. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
Variations
There are several variations to consider when making Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, switch out the pasta or rice for cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
For a spicier kick, you could add red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños into the sauce. You could also experiment with different kinds of cheese, such as mozzarella or feta, for a different flavor profile.
Best Time to Make Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken
Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken is enjoyable any time of year, but it’s especially comforting during cooler months. The slow cooker makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights when you want a cozy meal without much fuss.
It’s also a fantastic dish for gatherings when you want to prepare something that will impress people but not take hours of effort in the kitchen.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake when making Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken is overcooking the chicken. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit without drying out.
Another error is not allowing the sauce to properly combine before cooking. Take the time to stir everything well initially, as this helps the flavors meld beautifully during the cooking process.
Also, remember that using frozen chicken can alter the cooking time and texture. If possible, always start with fresh or properly thawed chicken for the best outcome.
Nutritional Notes
While Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken is rich and flavorful, it can also be balanced with nutritious ingredients. The addition of spinach boosts the nutritional profile, adding vitamins and minerals to the dish.
By serving it with vegetables or over whole grains, you can create a hearty meal that fits well into a balanced diet. Always be mindful of portion sizes, especially when enjoying the creamy sauce, as it can be calorie-dense.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
While it’s possible to use frozen chicken in the slow cooker, it is generally recommended to use fresh or thawed chicken for optimal texture and cooking results. If using frozen, increase the cooking time.
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or drumsticks if preferred. They will add a different flavor due to their higher fat content.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freeze it for later. Just reheat before serving.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken is an enchanting dish that combines simplicity and incredible flavor. This recipe is sure to delight anyone who tries it. With its rich sauce and tender chicken, it’s a perfect meal for special occasions or comforting dinners at home.
Using your slow cooker not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a delicious meal with minimal effort. Enjoy this scrumptious recipe and discover why it might just lead to a wedding proposal!
