If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty meal that practically cooks itself, then you’ll love this High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken! This dish is not only packed with flavor, but it’s also a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet healthy. With its creamy sun-dried tomato sauce and tender chicken, it has quickly become one of my go-to recipes — perfect for impressing family or friends at gatherings without spending all day in the kitchen.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let the magic happen! You’ll have a nutritious meal that brings smiles around the dinner table, making it an absolute favorite across many households.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it!
- Family-friendly appeal: Even picky eaters will fall in love with the creamy, flavorful sauce.
- Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prep; just reheat leftovers for lunch or dinner.
- High protein and low carb: A great option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet while enjoying a satisfying meal.
- Versatile flavors: The Italian-inspired taste pairs well with various sides, from pasta to veggies.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this dish are simple and wholesome. You probably have most of them in your pantry already! Here’s 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 & Creaminess
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup blended cottage cheese (any fat content)
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations to try:
- Swap the protein: Substitute chicken with turkey breasts or even plant-based protein like tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Add extra greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last hour of cooking for added nutrients.
- Spice it up: If you love heat, add more chili crunch oil or red pepper flakes to kick things up a notch!
- Cheesy twist: Mix in different types of cheese like mozzarella or feta for an exciting flavor profile.
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 is crucial as it enhances the overall flavor right from the start!
Step 2: Sauté Shallot and Garlic
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté finely chopped shallots and crushed garlic for about 2 minutes. Push them to one side of the skillet and sear your seasoned chicken breasts until they get a nice golden color on each side (about 2-3 minutes). This caramelization adds depth to your dish!
Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker
Carefully transfer your seared chicken into the slow cooker. Add in those lovely sun-dried tomatoes along with low-sodium chicken broth and optional chili oil or red pepper flakes if you like some spice. These ingredients meld beautifully over time!
Step 4: Let It Cook
Cover your slow cooker and set it to LOW for about 4–6 hours. The key here is patience; letting it cook slowly ensures that all those flavors really penetrate the chicken, making it incredibly tender.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in a cornstarch slurry (just mix equal parts cornstarch with water) into your slow cooker. This will thicken that luscious sauce so it’s perfectly creamy!
Step 6: Add Cheese
Once cooking time is up, turn off your slow cooker and stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with blended cottage cheese until smooth. This gives your sauce that rich creaminess we all love.
Step 7: Serve It Up!
Finally, return the chicken to the sauce so it’s nicely coated. Garnish with fresh chopped basil before serving — it’s not just pretty; it adds a burst of freshness too! Enjoy this delightful High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken with your favorite sides!
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 of the dish significantly. The freshness brings a vibrant taste that dried or pre-packaged alternatives can’t match.
Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to tweak the salt and spices. Everyone’s palate is different, and adjusting seasonings allows you to make this dish your own.
Let it rest before serving: Allowing the chicken to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps it absorb the sauce fully and enhances the overall flavor.
Don’t skip the cornstarch slurry: Adding the cornstarch slurry before finishing cooking will give you a rich and creamy sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken, making each bite delightful.
Add extra veggies: If you’re looking to boost nutrition, try adding some spinach or zucchini during the last hour of cooking. This not only adds more vitamins but also makes the dish even heartier without compromising on flavor.
How to Serve High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Presenting your High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken can elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delicious dish.
Garnishes
- Fresh basil: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil adds a burst of color and flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
- A drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle just before serving gives an extra touch of richness that enhances the overall taste.
Side Dishes
- Steamed broccoli: This nutrient-rich vegetable provides a lovely crunch and balances out the creamy texture of the chicken.
- Quinoa: A protein-packed grain that is easy to prepare and offers a nutty flavor, making it an excellent side for soaking up the sauce.
- Garlic mashed cauliflower: A lower-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, this dish adds creaminess while staying in line with your health goals.
- Cauliflower rice: Light and fluffy, cauliflower rice is perfect for those who want a low-carb option that absorbs all those delicious flavors from the sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
This High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, nutritious meals throughout the week without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
- Place leftovers in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
- Portion the cooled chicken into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Label with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- Reheat in a microwave-safe dish until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes on high.
- Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.
FAQs
Can I make High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is fantastic for meal prep. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
How do I store leftovers of High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
What can I serve with High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken?
This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, cauliflower rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that aligns with your healthy eating goals.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings flavor and nutrition together effortlessly. Whether you’re preparing dinner for yourself or sharing with loved ones, I’m sure this dish will become a favorite. Happy cooking!
High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Indulge in the rich flavors of High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken, a meal that combines convenience and taste effortlessly. This creamy chicken dish, simmered in a luscious sun-dried tomato sauce, is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set your slow cooker to work while you go about your day. The tender chicken absorbs all the delicious flavors, making it a family favorite that’s sure to impress. Serve it with your choice of sides like quinoa or steamed veggies for a balanced meal that satisfies both the palate and health goals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4–6 hours
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- 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
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with kosher salt and pepper.
- Sauté chopped shallots and crushed garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Sear the chicken until golden on both sides.
- Transfer seared chicken to the slow cooker and add sun-dried tomatoes and chicken broth.
- Cook on LOW for 4–6 hours.
- Stir in cornstarch slurry to thicken sauce about 30 minutes before serving.
- Add grated Parmesan and blended cottage cheese before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve with your favorite sides.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken with sauce (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
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