Crockpot Marry me Chicken pasta

Many home cooks search for dinner ideas that deliver convenience and great flavor. One recipe that consistently delights families is crockpot marry me chicken. It pairs a creamy sauce, tender meat, and cooked pasta in a process. Using a slow cooker lets you work on other tasks while everything melds together, creating savory depth that’s hard to resist.

Discovering a marry me chicken recipe might raise questions about its name. Some say it’s so tempting it could prompt a proposal. While that may be exaggerated, the dish earns its reputation as a top easy dinner choice. It draws on a mix of basic ingredients including chicken breast, Italian-style spices, optional sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich cream that blends everything into a velvety meal.

An easy crockpot approach readies this main course with minimal effort. Simply arrange your ingredients, start the appliance, and let gentle heat do the work. The result requires no supervision. Served alongside pasta or your favorite sides, it can become a weeknight staple. In the following sections, explore ingredients, methods, and variations that showcase this recipe’s versatility.

Crockpot Marry me Chicken Key Benefits

There is a reason this style of chicken dinner is increasingly popular among those who crave a comforting meal. This dish stands out for various reasons, all centered on making your life simpler while delivering fantastic results.

1. Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor
   Since it is a crockpot recipe, you can place your main ingredients in the pot, set your heat level, and then let the slow cooking work wonders. You can focus on other tasks or simply relax, knowing that tender chicken will be ready when mealtime arrives. The method locks in juices and deepens flavors over time, creating an unforgettable bite in each forkful.
2. Creamy and Irresistible Texture
   A rich sauce made with cream, broth, herbs, and optional sun-dried tomatoes ensures you end up with creamy chicken that delights the senses. The meat takes on those flavors during the cooking process, and the final result is a dish that feels luxurious without requiring you to hover over a stovetop. This is one of the reasons people love marry me chicken so much.
3. Ideal for Busy Schedules
   If you are juggling work, school activities, or family commitments, you can quickly assemble the ingredients and then step away. The delicious crockpot approach prevents burning or over-reducing, so you get a perfect consistency without standing in the kitchen. It is an excellent option for days when your schedule is tight but you still crave a satisfying chicken dinner.
4. Endlessly Adaptable
   Once you make this recipe, you can tweak it by swapping seasonings, adjusting the thickness of the sauce, or including extra vegetables to suit your family’s preferences. Adding spinach, mushrooms, or different cheeses can provide a creative twist. From comforting simplicity to multi-ingredient expansions, the meal can adapt to your vision.
5. Moist and Delicious Results
   A slow cooking method maintains juicy chicken and infuses it with the flavor of surrounding components. Because the sauce is sealed in the pot with the meat, every morsel is rich, succulent, and thoroughly seasoned. The end product is so inviting that many people keep it in their rotation of go-to meals.

Ingredients for crock pot chicken

When you gather the ingredients for this crock pot classic, be ready to appreciate how simple each element is. Despite the minimal fuss, the finished meal tastes spectacular. Below is a breakdown of what you will need to achieve the flavor-packed sauce and perfectly cooked meat. You can also keep in mind that these components are flexible enough to tailor the result to your personal taste.

1. Chicken Breast (2-3 pounds)
   Choose fresh or frozen-and-thawed chicken breast packages. This cut is lean and works well in a slow cooker, absorbing flavors beautifully. For variety, consider adding chicken thighs as well, if you like a slightly richer taste. Some people prefer skinless chicken pieces for less grease, especially skinless chicken breasts or skinless chicken thighs. Both can provide that chicken a golden brown finish if you sear them briefly before slow cooking.
2. Seasonings
   Seasoned chicken is at the heart of any rich sauce. A simple blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning typically works best. You can also include the classic tang of red pepper flakes if you want a hint of spice. These flakes add depth to the sauce without overwhelming your palate.
3. Olive Oil or Butter
   A small amount of fat can help you sear the chicken in a skillet before transferring it to the slow cooker. A quick browning step helps develop even more flavor. When you brown the chicken, you encourage caramelization on the outside, which ultimately means a richer taste in your final dish.
4. Garlic
   Fresh garlic cloves (or powder, if that is all you have) contribute a savory note to the overall sauce. Garlic chicken is a favorite among many home cooks, and for good reason. Garlic blends wonderfully with cream, cheese, and herbs.
5. Chicken Broth and Chicken Stock
   Some home cooks love mixing these two for extra depth, though one or the other is fine if that is what you have. You can add the chicken broth directly to the cooker. It helps thin out the cream and form a cohesive sauce around the meat. You may prefer to whisk together the chicken broth with heavy cream for a smoother consistency. If you have homemade chicken stock, that can provide a rich base. This liquid combination will keep your chicken breast moist and full of flavor.
6. Heavy Cream
   The signature creaminess in the sauce usually comes from heavy cream. You need enough to ensure that the sauce has body, but not so much that it becomes overly thick. The cream will meld with the seasonings for a silky finish. Many consider cream an essential part of the version of marry me chicken you make at home.
7. Cheese
   Grated Parmesan is often used, but you can experiment with other hard cheeses if that is your preference. The cheese melts into the sauce, producing a velvety layer on top of the chicken once it has cooked through.
8. Pasta or Spaghetti
   This is where a measure of creativity can come into play. Though some folks prefer spaghetti, others might opt for penne, bowties, or any other shape. As you explore a stovetop version of marry me chicken, you can cook the pasta separately, then stir it into the sauce at the end. For those who want to keep everything in one pot, wait until the last segment of cooking to add the pasta, ensuring it does not get too mushy. A classic marry me chicken recipe often incorporates spaghetti or short noodles to capture the sauce in each bite.
9. Sun-Dried Tomatoes or Chopped Fresh Tomatoes (Optional)
   These bring a sweet, tangy dimension to the dish. Whether you use them depends on personal preference, but many people appreciate how tomatoes brighten up the cream-based sauce.
10. Extra Flavors (Optional)
    You can sprinkle basil, oregano, thyme, or dried onion flakes. You can also mix in spinach, mushrooms, or your favorite vegetables for added nutrients. Feel free to make small modifications based on the produce you have.

As you gather all these ingredients into the crockpot, you will see that you do not need many complicated items to make a mouthwatering meal. Once everything is assembled, it is time to take the chicken breasts to the stove for quick browning (if you choose that step) before settling them in for a cozy, slow cook. Whether you are focusing on skinless chicken thighs or prefer to stick with chicken breast, the steps remain similarly straightforward.

Instructions for cooker marry me chicken

The beauty of this slow cooker marry me chicken approach lies in its flexibility. You can follow these basic steps for a clear outcome, or personalize them to suit your preferences. Below is a general outline of how to prepare and cook everything to ensure maximum flavor.

1. Preparation and Seasoning
   • Take the chicken breasts (or a combination of chicken breast and thighs if you plan to use boneless skinless chicken thighs). Pat them dry with a paper towel so the seasonings adhere better.
   • In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Seasoned chicken breasts will develop a more pronounced flavor, so coat your meat thoroughly on all sides.
2. Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)
   • Warm a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken for a minute or two on each side. This seals in moisture and creates a lightly crusted exterior. You want chicken a golden brown color, not blackened. A short time in the pan accomplishes that.
   • Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. If you are skipping this step due to time constraints, it is still fine to proceed. However, even a little browning can amplify flavor.
3. Set Up Your Slow Cooker
   • Lightly coat the inside of your cooker with nonstick spray if you wish. Then, add the chicken broth to the base of the pot. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can whisk together the chicken broth with heavy cream or pour the cream in after the chicken is in place.
   • Add chicken breasts to the slow cooker. If you want to make this a one-pot meal, be aware that we will add pasta later during the cooking.
4. Add Aromatics and Cream
   • Minced garlic or garlic powder, chopped onions, and optional sun-dried tomatoes go in now. Gently spread them over the top of the chicken so everything is well-distributed. Pour in your heavy cream next.
   • Scatter grated Parmesan (or another cheese) over the surface. This begins the transformation into a sauce that hugs the meat.
5. Cook on Low
   • Put the lid on and cook on low heat for at least 3 to 4 hours. The exact cook time depends on your specific slow cooker and the thickness of your chicken breast. In many slow cooker recipes, 4 hours on low is sufficient, but be prepared to go a bit longer if your device runs cool.
   • During this time, keep the lid closed as much as possible. Every time you lift it, you release valuable heat, which can extend your cooking process. Typically, you will need a total of 4 to 5 hours until the chicken is fork-tender.
6. Check the Chicken
   • Around the 3-hour mark, you can check the chicken for doneness. Insert a thermometer to ensure your meat has reached 165°F (74°C), which is safe. If the chicken is cooked enough that it shreds easily, you might use forks to pull it into chunks or smaller pieces.
7. Incorporate the Pasta
   • If you want to cook your noodles in the same pot, wait until you are 30 to 40 minutes away from completion. Scatter uncooked pasta or spaghetti into the sauce. Push it gently so it is submerged. Close the lid again and cook until the chicken and pasta are done. This step transforms your meal into a simple all-in-one approach.
   • If you do not want the pasta to soak in the sauce for that long, cook it separately on the stove. Drain the noodles, then stir them into the slow cooker at the very end.
8. Add the Chicken Back (If You Removed It Earlier)
   • If you took the chicken out when it hit a safe temperature, and you cooked pasta in the pot by itself, add the chicken back now so it warms through for a final 10 minutes. That unites the chicken and sauce once more.
   • A truly juicy chicken result is key, so do not let it simmer too long after it is done, or it can start to dry out.

Pro Tips and Variations for chicken crockpot

Exploring ways to build on this base recipe is part of the joy of cooking. Here are several ideas and techniques to enhance your marry me chicken is delicious experience and keep it fresh in your meal rotations:

1. Alternative Cuts
   While skinless chicken breasts are standard, do not hesitate to use chicken thighs if you desire a richer flavor. The presence of a bit more fat often creates an even more succulent bite. If you want to combine both, it is entirely possible. Just know that chicken thighs if you prefer can cook at the same pace as breast meat, though they tend to remain more forgiving even if cooked a bit longer.
2. Searing Choices
   Some cooks skip the step to brown the chicken breasts or thighs and still produce a tasty meal. However, if you opt to cook the chicken in a skillet for a couple of minutes per side, you will deepen the savory tones. It is a small effort that can make a big difference, especially if you aim to form a caramelized crust on your seasoned chicken breasts.
3. Thickness of Sauce
   Depending on how you like your sauce, you can alter the cream-to-broth ratio. More heavy cream lends a thicker consistency, while more broth ensures a lighter sauce. Adjust according to whether you are cooking your pasta in the same pot or planning to keep it separate. Either way, you will end up with a creamy chicken base that is satisfying and indulgent.
4. Cheese Swap
   Parmesan is traditional, but Asiago, Romano, or even a blend of several cheeses can work. Each brings a distinct undertone, giving you new ways to enjoy this chicken dish each time you revisit it.
5. Vegetable Add-Ins
   You can toss in mushrooms, spinach, zucchini slices, or other vegetables to round out the meal nutritionally. They will blend into the sauce, soaking up flavors from the cream and herbs. This is one of the easiest ways to tailor your dish. It allows you to add color and variety, potentially making it an easy chicken dinner that also includes a hearty serving of veggies.
6. Instead of Chicken Breasts
   Some may explore seafood or even turkey breast in place of poultry. But it is more common to stick with chicken, as that is central to the identity of the meal. However, if you are in the mood for variety, substituting other proteins is an option.
7. Final Consistency
   If your sauce seems too runny once the pasta is in the slow cooker, remove the lid for the last 10 minutes to let some liquid evaporate. If it feels too thick, stir in a touch more broth. In either case, taste often to confirm you like the flavor.
8. Serving Over Rice or Potatoes
   Although this is often seen as a chicken pasta meal, you can forego noodles and serve it with a batch of fluffy rice or mashed potatoes. The same sauce works well as a topping for different sides, so feel free to adapt as you see fit.
9. Timing Tweaks
   Cooking times vary by device. Sometimes, the best approach with a slow cooker is to cook on low for 4 or 5 hours, then hold on warm mode until you are ready to eat. You can also speed things up by cooking on high for about 2 to 3 hours, but keep an eye on the internal temperature to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
10. Shredding or Leaving Whole
    You can leave the juicy chicken breasts whole for a striking presentation when serving. Alternatively, you can shred or slice the meat to distribute it more evenly through the sauce. If you shred, add a final dash of seasoning so every piece is fully infused with flavor.

Serving Suggestions crockpot chicken

Once your crockpot chicken creation is ready, there are plenty of ways to highlight its flavor on the plate. Here are some popular serving suggestions:

1. Classic Pasta Pairing
   Even if you opted not to cook noodles in the pot, you can still boil your desired pasta shape separately. Toss it lightly in olive oil, then top with spoonfuls of sauce and chunks of meat. This approach captures the essence of crockpot marry me chicken recipe in a neat, restaurant-style presentation.
2. Side Salads
   A crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette or a Caesar dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce of your chicken and sauce. Adding cucumbers, bell peppers, or a sprinkle of cheese gives an extra layer of crunch and color.
3. Roasted Vegetables
   If you did not include vegetables in the slow cooker, consider roasting broccoli, cauliflower, or carrots. This helps round out your meal while adding a hint of sweetness and smokiness from the oven. Pairing roasted vegetables with the sauce left behind in the pot is quite satisfying.
4. Crusty Bread
   A warm, crusty loaf (baguette or ciabatta) is wonderful for soaking up leftover sauce. Dip each slice in the creamy mixture for a complete, cozy experience.
5. Leftover Ideas
   Should you find yourself with extra portions, leftover crockpot marry me chicken can be used the next day in many creative ways. You can turn it into a baked casserole with extra cheese on top or freeze the recipe in the freezer for future use. Either way, you have a convenient meal ready.

 Conclusion

Cooking crockpot marry me chicken spaghetti needs no advanced skills or fancy gear. Your slow cooker chicken handles the work, blending chicken breast, cream, broth, cheese, and seasonings into a cozy dish you can rely on. It’s an easy dinner recipe flexible enough for extra veggies or alternate proteins.

Don’t let the playful name fool you—marry me chicken suits any night. With minimal prep, you get a hearty meal minus constant stirring. Leftovers stay fresh in an airtight container, making lunches a breeze. Keep this recipe card ready for a quick, comforting meal anytime.

FAQS

Easy Crockpot Marry me Chicken pasta

Jordan Mike

Taste the savory delight of crockpot marry me chicken. Our recipe uses keyword to deliver a creamy, time-saving meal perfect for busy cooks.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American, Italian

Servings 6 people

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

  

Chicken Breast (2-3 pounds)

• Choose fresh or frozen-and-thawed chicken breast packages. This cut is lean and works well in a slow cooker absorbing flavors beautifully. For variety, consider adding chicken thighs as well, if you like a slightly richer taste. Some people prefer skinless chicken pieces for less grease, especially skinless chicken breasts or skinless chicken thighs. Both can provide that chicken a golden brown finish if you sear them briefly before slow cooking.

Seasonings

• Seasoned chicken is at the heart of any rich sauce. A simple blend of salt pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning typically works best. You can also include the classic tang of red pepper flakes if you want a hint of spice. These flakes add depth to the sauce without overwhelming your palate.

Olive Oil or Butter

• A small amount of fat can help you sear the chicken in a skillet before transferring it to the slow cooker. A quick browning step helps develop even more flavor. When you brown the chicken you encourage caramelization on the outside, which ultimately means a richer taste in your final dish.

Garlic

• Fresh garlic cloves or powder, if that is all you have contribute a savory note to the overall sauce. Garlic chicken is a favorite among many home cooks, and for good reason. Garlic blends wonderfully with cream, cheese, and herbs.

Chicken Broth and Chicken Stock

• Some home cooks love mixing these two for extra depth though one or the other is fine if that is what you have. You can add the chicken broth directly to the cooker. It helps thin out the cream and form a cohesive sauce around the meat. You may prefer to whisk together the chicken broth with heavy cream for a smoother consistency. If you have homemade chicken stock, that can provide a rich base. This liquid combination will keep your chicken breast moist and full of flavor.

Heavy Cream

• The signature creaminess in the sauce usually comes from heavy cream. You need enough to ensure that the sauce has body but not so much that it becomes overly thick. The cream will meld with the seasonings for a silky finish. Many consider cream an essential part of the version of marry me chicken you make at home.

Cheese

• Grated Parmesan is often used but you can experiment with other hard cheeses if that is your preference. The cheese melts into the sauce, producing a velvety layer on top of the chicken once it has cooked through.

Pasta or Spaghetti

• This is where a measure of creativity can come into play. Though some folks prefer spaghetti others might opt for penne, bowties, or any other shape. As you explore a stovetop version of marry me chicken, you can cook the pasta separately, then stir it into the sauce at the end. For those who want to keep everything in one pot, wait until the last segment of cooking to add the pasta, ensuring it does not get too mushy. A classic marry me chicken recipe often incorporates spaghetti or short noodles to capture the sauce in each bite.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes or Chopped Fresh Tomatoes (Optional)

• These bring a sweet tangy dimension to the dish. Whether you use them depends on personal preference, but many people appreciate how tomatoes brighten up the cream-based sauce.

Extra Flavors (Optional)

• You can sprinkle basil oregano, thyme, or dried onion flakes. You can also mix in spinach, mushrooms, or your favorite vegetables for added nutrients. Feel free to make small modifications based on the produce you have.

Instructions

 

Preparation and Seasoning

• Take the chicken breasts (or a combination of chicken breast and thighs if you plan to use boneless skinless chicken thighs). Pat them dry with a paper towel so the seasonings adhere better.
• In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Seasoned chicken breasts will develop a more pronounced flavor, so coat your meat thoroughly on all sides.

Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)

• Warm a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken for a minute or two on each side. This seals in moisture and creates a lightly crusted exterior. You want chicken a golden brown color, not blackened. A short time in the pan accomplishes that.
• Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. If you are skipping this step due to time constraints, it is still fine to proceed. However, even a little browning can amplify flavor.

Set Up Your Slow Cooker

• Lightly coat the inside of your cooker with nonstick spray if you wish. Then, add the chicken broth to the base of the pot. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can whisk together the chicken broth with heavy cream or pour the cream in after the chicken is in place.

Add chicken breasts to the slow cooker. If you want to make this a one-pot meal, be aware that we will add pasta later during the cooking.

• Add Aromatics and Cream
• Minced garlic or garlic powder, chopped onions, and optional sun-dried tomatoes go in now. Gently spread them over the top of the chicken so everything is well-distributed. Pour in your heavy cream next.
• Scatter grated Parmesan (or another cheese) over the surface. This begins the transformation into a sauce that hugs the meat.

Cook on Low

• Put the lid on and cook on low heat for at least 3 to 4 hours. The exact cook time depends on your specific slow cooker and the thickness of your chicken breast. In many slow cooker recipes, 4 hours on low is sufficient, but be prepared to go a bit longer if your device runs cool.
• During this time, keep the lid closed as much as possible. Every time you lift it, you release valuable heat, which can extend your cooking process. Typically, you will need a total of 4 to 5 hours until the chicken is fork-tender.

Check the Chicken

• Around the 3-hour mark, you can check the chicken for doneness. Insert a thermometer to ensure your meat has reached 165°F (74°C), which is safe. If the chicken is cooked enough that it shreds easily, you might use forks to pull it into chunks or smaller pieces.

Incorporate the Pasta

• If you want to cook your noodles in the same pot, wait until you are 30 to 40 minutes away from completion. Scatter uncooked pasta or spaghetti into the sauce. Push it gently so it is submerged. Close the lid again and cook until the chicken and pasta are done. This step transforms your meal into a simple all-in-one approach.
• If you do not want the pasta to soak in the sauce for that long, cook it separately on the stove. Drain the noodles, then stir them into the slow cooker at the very end.

Add the Chicken Back (If You Removed It Earlier)

• If you took the chicken out when it hit a safe temperature, and you cooked pasta in the pot by itself, add the chicken back now so it warms through for a final 10 minutes. That unites the chicken and sauce once more.
• A truly juicy chicken result is key, so do not let it simmer too long after it is done, or it can start to dry out.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~450
• Total Fat: ~18g
• Saturated Fat: ~10g
• Protein: ~32g
• Carbohydrates: ~40g
• Fiber: ~2g
• Sugar: ~4g
• Cholesterol: ~110mg
• Sodium: ~650mg

(Actual values may vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.)

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Categories

• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Keyword: crockpot marry me chicken pasta
• Skill Level: Easy

 

Keyword crockpot marry me chicken pasta