Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
A comforting slow-cooker dish featuring tender chicken in a creamy, tomato-kissed sauce that's perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs Thighs provide a juicier, richer flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk Makes the sauce luxuriously silky.
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Melts into savory, salty goodness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced The fragrant backbone of the dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano Adds a warm, herbaceous note.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil Rounds out the tomato flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional For an extra kiss of spice.
- to taste salt and black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil To sear if you choose.
- to taste fresh basil leaves for garnish A bright, peppery finish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half the dried oregano and basil. Optionally, sear each side in a hot skillet with olive oil for 1–2 minutes until golden.
- Place the chicken in the crock pot in a single layer.
- In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, diced tomatoes, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, remaining herbs, and red pepper flakes. Pour this mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours or high for 1.5–2 hours until the chicken reaches 165°F and shreds easily with a fork.
- For a thicker sauce, remove the chicken at the end and stir in a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 2 tablespoons cold water. Return the chicken to coat.
- Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan before serving.
Notes
Make it smoky by adding smoked paprika or fire-roasted tomatoes. For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk mixed with cornstarch.