If you’re searching for a dish that combines convenience with mouthwatering flavors, look no further than this Crockpot Marry Me Chicken recipe. This creamy, savory chicken dish is not only simple to prepare but also extraordinarily delicious, making it perfect for special occasions or a cozy weeknight dinner. With minimal effort, you’ll create a meal that will leave your loved ones asking for seconds—and maybe even a proposal!
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup spinach, fresh
– 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is 4 to 6 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high in the crockpot.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken thigh with sauce) contains approximately: 450 calories, 30g fat, 3g carbs, 40g protein. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot.
- In a bowl, mix the heavy cream, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning until well combined.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.
- Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the fresh spinach.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken in the sauce for added flavor.
- Serve the chicken over rice or pasta, drizzled with the creamy sauce.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Additionally, boneless chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs for a leaner choice.
Serving and Pairings
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or a side of roasted vegetables. A light salad can complement the meal, making it a well-rounded dining experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using frozen chicken instead of thawed can result in uneven cooking.
- Not seasoning the dish sufficiently can lead to bland flavors.
- Cooking on high too long can dry out the chicken.
- Forgetting to add spinach until the end can result in overcooked greens.
- Skipping the garnishing step can make the dish visually unappealing.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, sear the chicken thighs before adding them to the crockpot.
- Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano for a unique twist.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Adjust the ranch seasoning to your taste for more or less flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may cook faster and require careful monitoring to avoid drying out.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients and store them in the fridge, then cook them in the crockpot when ready.
What can I serve with Crockpot Marry Me Chicken?
This dish goes well with rice, pasta, or even a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this dish can be frozen. Just store it in an airtight container and thaw before reheating.
How can I make it spicier?
You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicier kick.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
Conclusion
The Crockpot Marry Me Chicken recipe is a delicious and easy meal that is sure to impress. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s perfect for any occasion. Try it today, and you might just find someone proposing for seconds!
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
- 1 cup spinach fresh
- 1 teaspoon garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot.
- In a bowl, mix the heavy cream, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning until well combined.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.
- Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the fresh spinach.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken in the sauce for added flavor.
- Serve the chicken over rice or pasta, drizzled with the creamy sauce.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
