Dump & Go Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’ve found it! This Dump & Go Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is my go-to recipe when I need something quick yet comforting. The tender chicken is smothered in a dreamy garlic-Parmesan sauce with the perfect hint of sweetness from sun-dried tomatoes. It’s an easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or those special family gatherings when you want to impress without breaking a sweat.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and flavor. Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it work its magic while you go about your day. Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding a crowd, this dish never disappoints!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy: Just dump everything in the crockpot and go! No complicated steps here.
• Family Favorite: With its creamy sauce and delicious flavors, everyone at the table will be asking for seconds.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep! Just store leftovers in the fridge and reheat for an easy lunch or dinner.
• Versatile Pairings: This dish pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or even crusty bread for sopping up that amazing sauce.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need any fancy ingredients for this recipe—just simple, wholesome staples that you might already have at home. Let’s gather what we need!

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce

• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, drained)
• 2 tbsp butter

For Garnish

• Fresh basil or parsley

Variations

One of the best things about this Dump & Go Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use boneless skinless thighs if you prefer dark meat; they’ll stay juicy and tender!
• Add some veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last 30 minutes for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños for a kick.
• Creamy alternative: Try using coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter option with a subtle flavor twist.

How to Make Dump & Go Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step adds essential flavor that will enhance every bite of your dish.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Mixing these ingredients creates a creamy sauce that will envelop your chicken in deliciousness.

Step 3: Assemble in the Crockpot

Place the seasoned chicken breasts into your crockpot and pour the prepared sauce over them. Make sure all pieces are well coated; this ensures they cook evenly and absorb all those wonderful flavors.

Step 4: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Sprinkle the chopped sun-dried tomatoes over the top of the chicken. These little bursts of sweetness will complement the creamy sauce beautifully.

Step 5: Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours or HIGH for 2 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through. The slow cooking process makes sure each piece is juicy and flavorful.

Step 6: Finish with Butter

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add butter to enrich your sauce further. Stir it gently to combine—it will melt right into that lovely creamy goodness!

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley. This adds a pop of color and freshness that balances out the richness of your meal perfectly. Enjoy it served over rice, pasta, or alongside crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that sauce!

Pro Tips for Making Dump & Go Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

This dish is all about ease and flavor, so let’s make it even better with a few helpful tips!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and basil can elevate the flavors significantly. Fresh ingredients often have more vibrant flavors that enhance the overall dish.

• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to omit the red pepper flakes. On the other hand, if you love a kick, consider adding more or using a spicier variety.

• Don’t skip the butter: Adding butter towards the end of cooking enriches the sauce and adds an extra layer of creaminess. It helps bring all the flavors together beautifully.

• Let it rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to sit for a few minutes before serving. This lets the juices redistribute, ensuring your chicken stays moist and tender.

• Experiment with cheese: If you’re not a fan of Parmesan, try using another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Each cheese will impart its unique flavor to the sauce.

How to Serve Dump & Go Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

Serving this creamy chicken dish is as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to present this heartwarming meal beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Lemon zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest can brighten up the rich flavors in the dish, adding a refreshing citrus note.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: The slight bitterness of broccoli balances well with the creamy sauce and adds essential nutrients.
• Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up every drop of that delicious sauce, garlic bread adds an irresistible crunch.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and cherry tomatoes offers a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes serve as a comforting base that pairs perfectly with this flavorful dish.

Now you have everything you need to create an unforgettable dinner experience with your Dump & Go Crockpot Marry Me Chicken! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Dump & Go Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy the deliciousness throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best flavor.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the dish cool and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container.
• Label with the date and contents, then freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, portion out servings before freezing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, covering it loosely to retain moisture. Heat on medium power until warmed through.
• Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for Dump & Go Crockpot Marry Me Chicken?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work beautifully in this recipe. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for even cooking.

How can I make Dump & Go Crockpot Marry Me Chicken healthier?

To make this dish lighter, consider using low-fat cream or substituting half of the cream with Greek yogurt. You can also add more veggies like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition!

Can I prepare Dump & Go Crockpot Marry Me Chicken in advance?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can cook it ahead of time and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer.

Final Thoughts

This Dump & Go Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a comforting and delicious meal that brings joy with each bite. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights but special enough to impress at dinner parties. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do! Feel free to customize it to your taste, and don’t forget to share your experience—happy cooking!