If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is just the ticket! This recipe has become a beloved staple in my kitchen because it combines tender chicken with a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce that’s bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet healthy, or even for family gatherings when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Not only is this dish a crowd-pleaser, but it also packs a protein punch while keeping things low-carb. It’s the kind of meal that makes everyone at the table smile and ask for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can set this dish and forget about it until dinner time.
- Family-Friendly Flavor: The creamy sauce and tender chicken appeal to both kids and adults, making it a go-to for family meals.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! Just toss everything in your crockpot, and you’ll have delicious leftovers all week long.
- Rich Italian-Inspired Taste: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and herbs brings an irresistible Mediterranean flair to your dinner table.
- High Protein & Low Carb: Enjoy a hearty meal that supports your healthy lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a breeze! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s dive into what you’ll need:
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)
For Thickening
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
For Creaminess
- 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 with these variations to suit your taste buds or dietary needs:
- Swap the protein: Try using turkey breasts or even chickpeas for a plant-based twist that still delivers on protein.
- Add extra veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last hour of cooking for added nutrients and vibrant color.
- Spice it up: If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or extra chili flakes to amp up the flavor.
- Creamy alternatives: Swap out blended cottage cheese with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist that’s still creamy.
How to Make High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with kosher salt and pepper. This step ensures that every bite is flavorful from the get-go!
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallot and crushed garlic, sautéing them until they become fragrant—about 2 minutes. This process enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to our sauce.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Push the sautéed shallots and garlic to one side of the skillet and place the seasoned chicken breasts on the other side. Sear them for 2–3 minutes per side until they develop a lovely golden color. Sprinkle with onion powder and Italian seasoning to infuse more flavor into the chicken.
Step 4: Transfer to Slow Cooker
Carefully transfer your seared chicken into a slow cooker. Pour in those delicious sun-dried tomatoes along with low-sodium chicken broth. If you like some heat, drizzle in chili oil or sprinkle red pepper flakes at this stage!
Step 5: Slow Cook
Set your slow cooker on LOW for 4–6 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This slow cooking method allows all those flavors to meld beautifully together.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in a cornstarch slurry made from mixing 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of water. This will give your sauce that perfect creamy texture.
Step 7: Add Cheese
Once done cooking, turn off the heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with blended cottage cheese until everything is smooth and well combined.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Return your chicken to the sauce, ensuring each piece is generously coated. Garnish with fresh chopped basil for an aromatic finish before serving!
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 enhance the flavor profile of the dish, making your sauce more aromatic and delicious.
Don’t rush the cooking time: Cooking on LOW for 4–6 hours allows the chicken to become tender and fully absorb the flavors of the sauce, resulting in a mouthwatering meal.
Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to tweak the salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning based on your preferences to create your perfect dish.
Make it creamy: Blending cottage cheese adds a rich creaminess without excess fat; you can also use Greek yogurt as an alternative for added protein.
Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy a quick meal later in 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 delightful dish!
Garnishes
- Fresh basil: Chopped fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish’s aroma and flavor.
- Parmesan shavings: Lightly shaved Parmesan on top creates an appealing visual element while adding richness to each bite.
Side Dishes
- Zucchini noodles: A low-carb alternative to pasta that pairs beautifully with creamy sauces; simply sauté them until tender for a light side.
- Steamed broccoli: This nutritious vegetable adds a vibrant green color and mild flavor that complements the richness of the chicken.
- Quinoa salad: A protein-packed grain salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken.
- Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up the sauce, warm garlic bread can be a delicious indulgence alongside this flavorful dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
This High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy flavorful, healthy meals throughout the week with minimal effort.
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 optimal freshness.
Freezing
- Cool the chicken entirely before freezing.
- Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
- Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
- Alternatively, warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.
FAQs
Can I make High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken without sun-dried tomatoes?
Absolutely! You can substitute sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers or omit them entirely if you prefer a simpler flavor profile.
How do I ensure my High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken stays juicy?
To keep your chicken juicy, be sure not to overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and remove it promptly from the slow cooker.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours on LOW until fully cooked through.
What sides pair well with High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, cauliflower rice, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This recipe is excellent for meal prep as it stores well and can be made in advance to save time during busy weekdays.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in making this High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken! It’s not only easy but also packed with flavors that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish, and don’t hesitate to make it again soon. Happy cooking!
High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, look no further than High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken. This wholesome recipe features tender chicken simmered in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce that’s sure to impress your family or guests. Ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, this dish is not only delicious but also low-carb and high in protein. With simple ingredients and effortless preparation, you can set it and forget it until dinner time. Experience the rich Italian-inspired flavors that make this meal a true crowd-pleaser, leaving everyone at the table asking for seconds!
- 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
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 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)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup blended cottage cheese (any fat content)
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat; sauté chopped shallot and garlic until fragrant.
- Sear seasoned chicken in the skillet for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer chicken to a slow cooker; add sun-dried tomatoes and chicken broth (and chili oil if desired).
- Cook on LOW for 4–6 hours until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry; stir into the sauce to thicken.
- Stir in grated Parmesan and blended cottage cheese until smooth.
- Serve garnished with fresh chopped basil.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 345
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 52g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
