If you’re looking for a dish that’s as comforting as a warm hug and packed with flavor, then you’ve stumbled upon a gem: High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken! This recipe has quickly become a favorite of mine for its creamy sun-dried tomato sauce and tender chicken. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something simple yet satisfying or even for family gatherings when you want to impress without the stress.
Trust me, once you try this dish, it might just lead to some love declarations at your dinner table! It’s high in protein and low in carbs, making it not only delicious but also a wholesome choice that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless preparation: Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work while you enjoy your day!
- Family-friendly appeal: With its creamy texture and rich flavor, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
- Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up in advance and just reheat when you’re ready to eat.
- Deliciously versatile: The flavors are so rich that this dish can easily be paired with various sides for an exciting dining experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this delightful recipe, you’ll be using simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need to create your High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken:
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Sauce
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (not in oil)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon chili crunch oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
To Thicken and Enrich
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup blended cottage cheese (any fat content)
For Garnish
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Variations
This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative and make it your own. Here are some fun variations to consider:
- Swap the protein: Try using turkey breasts or even tofu for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Add veggies: Throw in some spinach or bell peppers to add extra nutrition and color to your dish.
- Spice it up: If you love heat, increase the amount of chili crunch oil or add diced jalapeños.
- Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or mozzarella for unique flavor profiles.
How to Make High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Begin by seasoning your chicken breasts with kosher salt and pepper. This step is crucial because it lays the foundation for flavor throughout the cooking process.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped shallot and crushed garlic for about 2 minutes until they’re fragrant and slightly softened. This brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall taste of your dish.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Push the sautéed ingredients to one side of the skillet. Place your seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet and sear them for about 2–3 minutes on each side until they develop a lovely golden color. As you sprinkle them with onion powder and Italian seasoning, you’re adding layers of flavor that will infuse into every bite.
Step 4: Transfer to Slow Cooker
Carefully transfer the seared chicken into a slow cooker. Add in your sun-dried tomatoes, low-sodium chicken broth, and if desired, drizzle some chili oil or sprinkle red pepper flakes for an extra kick. This combination ensures each piece of chicken absorbs all those wonderful flavors.
Step 5: Slow Cook
Set your slow cooker on LOW for 4–6 hours or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F. Cooking slowly allows all those fabulous flavors to meld perfectly while keeping your chicken moist and tender.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
About 30 minutes before serving, create a cornstarch slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of water. Stir this mixture into your crockpot; it will thicken up that luscious sauce beautifully!
Step 7: Add Cheeses
Once done cooking, turn off your slow cooker and stir in both grated Parmesan cheese and blended cottage cheese until smooth. This addition makes your sauce incredibly creamy!
Step 8: Serve with Love
Return your chicken to the sauce, ensuring each piece is coated thoroughly. Top with freshly chopped basil before serving—this adds a delightful freshness that brightens up each bite! Enjoy this dish as part of a memorable dinner experience.
Pro Tips for Making High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
To ensure your High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken turns out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind!
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and shallots will enhance the flavor of your dish significantly, making it taste more vibrant and delicious.
- Don’t rush the cooking time: Allowing the chicken to cook slowly on low heat ensures it becomes tender and juicy, soaking up all the wonderful flavors from the sauce.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different; feel free to add more salt, pepper, or spices according to your preferences for a personalized touch.
- Experiment with cheese options: If you want to switch things up, try using different types of cheese like mozzarella or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
- Make it ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prep! Prepare it in advance and store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to enjoy throughout the week.
How to Serve High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Presenting your High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken beautifully can elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delicious dish.
Garnishes
- Fresh basil: A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Cracked black pepper: A light dusting of cracked black pepper just before serving enhances the flavors and adds a bit of visual appeal.
Side Dishes
- Zucchini noodles: Light and low-carb, zucchini noodles provide a great base that soaks up the creamy sauce without adding extra calories.
- Cauliflower rice: This versatile side is low in carbs and pairs well with the rich flavors of the chicken, making it a perfect accompaniment.
- Steamed asparagus: Bright green asparagus not only adds vibrant color to your plate but also brings a fresh crunch that balances the richness of the dish.
- Garlic mashed potatoes: For those looking for comfort food, creamy garlic mashed potatoes make a hearty pairing that everyone will love!
Make Ahead and Storage
This High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy nutritious meals throughout the week.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
- Cool the chicken completely before freezing.
- Place in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible.
- Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for reference.
Reheating
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed, until heated through.
- Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed, stirring occasionally.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken directly in the crockpot. Just ensure it cooks longer until it reaches 165°F internally.
How can I make High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken even healthier?
You can reduce the amount of cheese or substitute with low-fat options. Additionally, increase the vegetable content by adding bell peppers or spinach to boost nutrition.
What sides pair well with High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken?
Serve this dish alongside steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or cauliflower rice for a healthy meal.
Is High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This recipe holds up well when stored in the fridge or freezer, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping.
Final Thoughts
This High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a delightful way to bring comfort and flavor into your kitchen. I hope you’ll enjoy making this dish as much as I do! Share it with loved ones and savor each bite together—happy cooking!
High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
If you’re in search of a dinner that combines ease, flavor, and comfort, look no further than this High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken. This dish features tender, juicy chicken simmered in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, creating a meal that’s not only delicious but also wholesome. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, it brings the warmth of home-cooked goodness to your table with minimal effort. Each bite is infused with rich flavors and high protein content, making it a great choice for health-conscious diners. Serve it with your favorite sides for a memorable dining experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4–6 hours
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (not in oil)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup blended cottage cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped shallots and crushed garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
- Sear the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet until golden on both sides.
- Transfer the chicken to a slow cooker; add sun-dried tomatoes and broth.
- Cook on LOW for 4–6 hours until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with water and stir into the crockpot to thicken.
- Stir in grated Parmesan and blended cottage cheese until smooth.
- Serve the chicken coated in sauce and topped with fresh basil.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
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