Are you ready to impress your loved ones with a dish that’s both delicious and easy to prepare? The Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish that promises to win hearts at the dinner table. With tender chicken breasts simmered in a luscious sauce, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful meal that might just lead to a proposal!
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 package ranch seasoning mix
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 4 hours on low heat.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken breast with sauce) contains approximately:
– Calories: 500
– Protein: 40g
– Fat: 35g
– Carbohydrates: 5g
– Fiber: 1g
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on exact ingredients used.)
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and place them in the crockpot.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning.
3. Pour the mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.
4. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes on top of the chicken.
5. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until chicken is tender.
6. About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Cover again to allow cheese to melt.
8. Once cooked, remove chicken and shred if desired.
9. Stir in fresh basil into the sauce before serving.
10. Serve the chicken with the creamy sauce over rice or pasta.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Additionally, use chicken thighs instead of breasts for more flavor and moisture. Sun-dried tomatoes can be replaced with fresh tomatoes if preferred.
Serving and Pairings
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, pasta, or a fresh garden salad. For a complete meal, consider serving with garlic bread or roasted vegetables.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the chicken to prevent dryness.
– Make sure to measure the ingredients accurately for best results.
– Don’t skip the cheese; it adds crucial flavor and creaminess.
– Stir the sauce occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking.
– If using fresh tomatoes, add them later to prevent mushiness.
Helpful Tips
– Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F).
– Enhance the flavor with Italian seasoning or garlic powder.
– Fresh herbs can elevate the dish; add them just before serving.
– For a spicy kick, include red pepper flakes in the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to increase the cooking time by about 1 hour on low heat.
What can I use instead of ranch seasoning?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning, a mixture of garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs can serve as a substitute.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well and can be easily reheated, making it perfect for weekly meal prep.
Can I add vegetables to the crockpot?
Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers in the last hour of cooking for added nutrients and flavor.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Conclusion
The Crockpot Marry Me Chicken recipe is a delicious and easy dish that is sure to impress. With its rich flavors and tender chicken, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a romantic dinner or a family gathering, this recipe will surely become a favorite. Enjoy the love and compliments that come your way!
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 package ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1/2 cup fresh basil chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and place them in the crockpot.
- In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes on top of the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until chicken is tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover again to allow cheese to melt.
- Once cooked, remove chicken and shred if desired.
- Stir in fresh basil into the sauce before serving.
- Serve the chicken with the creamy sauce over rice or pasta.
