Looking for a slow cooker chicken dinner so good it might just inspire a proposal? This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken has taken the internet by storm, and for good reason. With tender seared chicken breasts simmered in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs, every bite is rich, flavorful, and unforgettable. Best of all, this version uses your crockpot, making it a hands-off dinner with restaurant-quality taste.
Whether you’re planning a date night or just need a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe is a true showstopper. You’ll also find tips for making it ahead, storing leftovers, and pairing with the perfect sides. Check out our Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe if you’re craving a cozy twist!
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Why Everyone’s Obsessed with Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
What Makes It “Marry Me” Worthy
The name might sound dramatic, but one bite and you’ll understand why. It’s the combination of juicy chicken breasts, velvety garlic cream sauce, and the rich umami of sun-dried tomatoes that takes this dish to another level. The flavors are balanced, indulgent, and comforting—perfect for special occasions or everyday dinners alike.
It’s also beginner-friendly, yet elegant enough to impress dinner guests. The texture of the chicken becomes fork-tender in the crockpot while soaking up all that bold flavor from the sauce.
Origins and Viral Appeal of the Recipe
Marry Me Chicken originally went viral as a stovetop recipe featured on multiple food blogs and TikTok channels. It was dubbed “Marry Me” because its flavor supposedly inspires proposals—it’s that good.
Eventually, home cooks began adapting it for the crockpot, wanting the same magic but with less hands-on time. The slow cooker version you’re about to learn has become one of the most pinned and shared comfort food recipes of the past year.
Benefits of the Crockpot Version Over Stove-Top
While the stovetop recipe is quicker, the crockpot method makes the chicken even more tender and allows flavors to meld beautifully over hours. No babysitting the sauce, no worrying about burning cream—it’s a win-win. Plus, it frees up your stove for making sides like garlic mashed potatoes or buttery green beans.
If you’re looking for more easy comfort meals, check out our guide to Creamy Garlic Shrimp, another rich and satisfying recipe made for indulgent nights in.
Ingredients That Make This Dish Unforgettable
Chicken Cut and Seasoning Choices
The classic version uses boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but boneless thighs work too if you prefer dark meat. Each piece gets seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for a layered flavor profile before being lightly seared. Searing is optional—but highly recommended for better color and richness.
Here’s a quick seasoning breakdown:
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Garlic Powder | Adds warm, aromatic flavor |
| Onion Powder | Deepens the savory base |
| Salt & Pepper | Enhances and balances all elements |
| Olive Oil & Butter | Used for searing to develop golden crust |
Want to try something different? Discover great ideas like our Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy for more meaty comfort food inspiration.
Creamy Garlic Sauce Breakdown
This is the soul of the dish. The sauce is a velvety blend of heavy cream, chicken broth, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. The richness of the cream is balanced by the brightness of sun-dried tomatoes and the sharpness of Parmesan.
Don’t skip the sun-dried tomatoes—they’re what gives this dish its signature flavor. And freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds depth.
| Sauce Element | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Heavy Cream | Adds body and silkiness |
| Chicken Broth | Balances richness |
| Garlic | Builds aroma and base |
| Sun-Dried Tomatoes | Adds tangy-sweet depth |
| Parmesan | Brings a salty umami kick |
Looking for inspiration? Try this Steak with Creamy Garlic Sauce recipe next.
Substitutions and Customizations (Dairy-Free, Low-Sodium, etc.)
Need to tweak it? Here are some popular swaps:
- Dairy-Free: Use unsweetened coconut cream or a cashew cream blend
- Low-Sodium: Choose low-sodium broth and skip added salt
- No Tomatoes: Leave out sun-dried tomatoes and increase herbs for balance
- No Parmesan: Substitute with dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast
You can also experiment with spices like paprika, smoked salt, or even curry powder for an interesting twist. Want to skip the pasta? Serve it over cauliflower mash for a low-carb version.
Pantry Staples That Add Big Flavor
You don’t need fancy ingredients to make this a standout dish. Some of the most powerful flavor agents in this recipe are everyday pantry items:
- Cornstarch – for thickening the sauce
- Italian seasoning – a simple blend of basil, oregano, thyme
- Red pepper flakes – a mild kick without real heat
- Garlic – preferably fresh, but jarred works in a pinch
Don’t miss our Easy Black Pepper Chicken if you enjoy quick and bold-flavored dinners.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Prepping and Searing the Chicken (Optional but Ideal)
Before you even touch your slow cooker, give your chicken breasts a quick prep. Start by patting them dry and seasoning both sides with salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. While technically optional, a quick sear in a hot skillet with olive oil and butter helps lock in moisture and adds a gorgeous golden-brown crust that boosts flavor.
Tip: You’re not cooking the chicken all the way—just browning it for about 2–3 minutes per side.
This step gives the final dish more complexity and ensures the sauce clings beautifully to each bite. If you’re in a rush, you can skip it and just increase the butter in the sauce.
Ingredients for searing:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 4 (boneless, skinless) |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Garlic powder | ½ tsp |
| Onion powder | ½ tsp |
| Black pepper | ¼ tsp |
Craving even more slow cooker dinner wins? Don’t miss our cozy and bold Cajun Potato Soup Recipe for a comforting Southern-style hit.
Building the Sauce in the Slow Cooker
This is where the magic happens. In the bottom of your crockpot, whisk together chicken broth and cornstarch until smooth. Then stir in heavy cream, fresh minced garlic, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika.
Carefully nestle your seared chicken into the sauce, then top each piece with chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Pour any remaining butter and oil from the searing pan right over the top.
| Sauce Base | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken broth | 1½ cups |
| Cornstarch | 3 tbsp |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves |
| Italian seasoning | 1½ tsp |
| Salt & pepper | ½ tsp each |
| Red pepper flakes | ½ tsp |
| Paprika | ½ tsp |
| Sun-dried tomatoes | ⅓ cup (chopped) |
Note: If your slow cooker runs hot, wait to add the heavy cream until the last 30 minutes to avoid curdling.
This creamy, garlicky sauce is the real star here, and when paired with sundried tomatoes and melted parmesan at the end, it becomes irresistibly rich and velvety.
Check out our Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe for another crockpot creamy classic.
Cooking Time, Temperature & Tips
Set your slow cooker to low and let the chicken cook for 6–8 hours. Avoid using the high setting—it can curdle the sauce or dry out the meat. You want the chicken to become fork-tender, infused with the cream sauce’s flavor.
Key tips:
- Don’t lift the lid during cooking—it lets out valuable heat and extends the cook time.
- Always check the chicken with a thermometer. Internal temp should hit 165°F.
- Stir the sauce once during the last hour (if needed) to keep it silky.
Final Assembly and Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, remove the chicken briefly and stir ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese into the sauce. Return the chicken to the pot and sprinkle on freshly chopped basil for brightness and aroma.
Optional: Garnish with extra parmesan and black pepper before serving.
This dish goes from simple to sensational with just a few finishing touches.
Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Pasta, Mashed Potatoes, and Rice Pairings
The sauce from Crockpot Marry Me Chicken needs something to soak into—don’t let a drop go to waste!
Top recommendations:
| Side | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Rotini or fettuccine pasta | Sauce clings well |
| Mashed potatoes | Creamy + creamy = heaven |
| Garlic rice | Light but flavorful |
| Buttered egg noodles | Classic comfort pairing |
Looking for inspiration? Try our The Best Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes for a match made in dinner heaven.
Fresh Vegetables and Light Salads to Balance the Creaminess
Because the chicken and sauce are rich, pair it with something fresh to keep things light. A simple salad or steamed veggie brings balance to the plate.
Try these:
- Steamed green beans or broccoli
- Arugula and cherry tomato salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted asparagus or zucchini
Explore more veggie ideas in our Sauteed Zucchini Recipe—a fresh and simple side to pair with creamy dishes.
Breads and Rolls for Soaking Up Sauce
If you’re skipping the carbs on the plate, you’ll want them in your bread basket.
Best options:
- Crusty French bread or baguette
- Buttery dinner rolls
- Garlic knots or pull-apart bread
Warm bread turns this crockpot dish into a complete comfort food experience. We love serving it family-style for Sunday dinners.
Storage, Leftovers, and Reheating
Fridge vs Freezer: What’s Best?
Leftovers of Crockpot Marry Me Chicken store beautifully—making this recipe great for meal prep or next-day comfort meals.
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooled portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Pro Tip: Store sauce separately (if possible) to keep the texture smooth when reheating.
Preventing Sauce Separation When Reheating
Because this dish uses heavy cream, it’s important to reheat it low and slow to avoid sauce curdling or breaking.
Here’s how to reheat:
- Microwave: Use 50% power in 1-minute bursts, stirring between rounds.
- Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, stirring continuously.
- Slow Cooker: Use the “keep warm” setting for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
Creative Ways to Use Leftovers
Leftover Marry Me Chicken makes an amazing second act! Here are some ideas:
- Shred and toss with pasta for a creamy sun-dried tomato chicken pasta.
- Chop and use in wraps or flatbreads with arugula and mozzarella.
- Dice and serve over risotto or baked polenta.
- Use as a baked potato topping with parmesan and herbs.
Don’t miss our Garlic Butter Steak Bites for another next-day meal idea that’s packed with flavor.
FAQs About Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
No. It’s not recommended for this recipe. Starting with frozen chicken can cause uneven cooking and water down the creamy sauce.
Do I need to sear the chicken first?
It’s optional—but highly encouraged. Searing locks in juices and adds a golden crust that deepens flavor.
What if I don’t like sun-dried tomatoes?
You can leave them out, but you’ll lose that signature tangy-sweet note that makes this dish special. If needed, replace with roasted red peppers for a different twist.
Can I cook this on high?
Avoid using the high setting. It may curdle the cream sauce or overcook the chicken. Always use low for this dish.
What type of cream should I use?
Only use heavy cream (not milk or half-and-half). It holds up to long cooking times and gives the sauce its rich consistency.
Conclusion: One Bite and You’ll Know Why It’s Called “Marry Me” Chicken
If you’re searching for a crockpot dinner that’s equal parts comforting, indulgent, and unforgettable—Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is the answer. From the golden seared chicken to the creamy Parmesan-garlic sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, every bite delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.
Perfect for date night, busy weeknights, or impressing dinner guests, this viral favorite earns its name honestly.
Don’t miss our Slow Cooker Thai Peanut Chicken if you’re in the mood to explore another creamy, flavor-packed crockpot recipe.
PrintCrockpot Marry Me Chicken
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a rich, creamy slow cooker recipe made with seared chicken breasts, garlic-Parmesan sauce, and sun-dried tomatoes. It’s an easy yet elegant dish that’s perfect for date nights, family dinners, or special occasions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–8 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 6–8 fresh basil leaves, chopped
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts on both sides with salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Sear chicken on both sides until golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside. Do not cook through.
- In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth and cornstarch until smooth.
- Pour broth mixture into the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Whisk in heavy cream, garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add seared chicken breasts to the slow cooker and pour leftover butter/oil from the pan on top.
- Top each chicken breast with chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
- Once done, remove chicken briefly and whisk Parmesan cheese into the sauce.
- Return chicken to the slow cooker, spoon sauce over top, garnish with fresh basil, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Do not use frozen chicken for this recipe.
- Searing the chicken adds flavor but can be skipped—just increase the butter to 4 tbsp.
- If your slow cooker runs hot, wait to add the heavy cream in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add key flavor—avoid skipping unless absolutely necessary.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat slowly to prevent sauce separation.
