Easy Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and incredibly easy to prepare, the Crockpot Marry Me Chicken recipe is a winner. This tasty dish combines tender chicken, crispy smoked turkey bacon, creamy plant-based cheese, and rich natural sauces that come together perfectly in your slow cooker for a comforting, hassle-free meal. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this Crockpot Marry Me Chicken brings the deliciousness and warmth everyone will rave about.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses basic pantry staples yet delivers gourmet flavor in every bite.
• Effortless Prep: Throw everything in the crockpot and let it work its magic all day long.
• Rich and Creamy: Enjoy a luscious sauce made with plant-based cheese and natural flavorings.
• Perfectly Balanced: Smoky, savory, and slightly tangy notes create an irresistible mix.
• Versatile Meal: Ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a cozy weekend dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays an important role in the success of the Crockpot Marry Me Chicken. From the smoky goodness of smoked turkey bacon to the creamy melt of plant-based cheese and the bright punch of natural sauces, everything adds up to a beautiful harmony of flavors and textures.

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: The tender base that soaks up all the savory flavors.
• Smoked Turkey Bacon: Adds smoky depth and a satisfying crunch once crisped up.
• Plant-Based Cream Cheese: Creates a creamy, dreamy sauce keeping everything moist and rich.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Offers a sweet and tangy pop of flavor with vibrant color.
• Garlic Cloves (natural): Infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic punch.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire Sauce (natural): Deepens the savory layers with umami goodness.
• Heavy Cream (plant-based): Adds luscious silkiness to the sauce’s texture.
• Italian Seasoning (natural): Brings herby notes that tie all the flavors together perfectly.
• Fresh Basil: For a fresh, herbaceous finish that brightens the dish.

Variations for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

One of the best parts of the Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is how easy it is to customize. Whether you want to tailor it to your dietary needs, experiment with different flavors, or simply use what’s on hand, these variations make it simple to make this recipe your own.

• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper or a dash of cayenne for some heat.
• Mushroom Lover’s: Toss in sliced mushrooms for earthiness and extra texture.
• Spinach Boost: Add fresh spinach in the last 15 minutes for a healthy green touch.
• Cheesy Swap: Use your favorite plant-based shredded cheese for extra gooeyness.
• Low-Carb Version: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of regular pasta or rice.

How to Make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Smoked Turkey Bacon

Begin by seasoning your chicken breasts lightly with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Then, crisp up the smoked turkey bacon in a skillet until golden and crispy. Set aside on paper towels to drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Assemble the Crockpot Ingredients

Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Chop the garlic cloves and sun-dried tomatoes, then scatter them evenly over the chicken. Crumble half of the smoked turkey bacon on top to infuse smoky flavor right into the meat.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a bowl, combine plant-based cream cheese, plant-based heavy cream, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), garlic (natural), and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Stir until smooth and pour the sauce evenly over all the ingredients in the crockpot.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender and soak up the rich sauce, while flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Before serving, crumble the remaining smoked turkey bacon on top and sprinkle fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and herbal freshness.

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

• Use fresh garlic: Fresh garlic will give you a brighter flavor than pre-minced versions.
• Crisp the smoked turkey bacon well: Crisp texture contrasts deliciously with tender chicken.
• Don’t skip the sun-dried tomatoes: Their natural tang adds a lovely depth to the sauce.
• Low and slow cooking: Cooking on low heat allows flavors to blend perfectly and keeps chicken juicy.
• Reserve some fresh basil for garnish: Adding it right before serving keeps the basil vibrant and fresh-tasting.

How to Serve Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

Garnishes

For a beautiful presentation and extra flavor, sprinkle crumbled smoked turkey bacon and chopped fresh basil over the chicken just before serving. A drizzle of grape juice reduction adds a subtle sweetness that makes your plate pop.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic mashed potatoes made creamy with plant-based cream or a bed of fluffy rice. Roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad with a zesty dressing complement the rich flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve the Crockpot Marry Me Chicken over creamy polenta or stuffed into toasted ciabatta rolls for an elevated sandwich experience. Individual ramekins with the saucy chicken and melted plant-based cheese also make charming single servings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The chicken will stay tender while the sauce thickens slightly, making reheated bites even more flavorful.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover Crockpot Marry Me Chicken in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a covered skillet over low heat or microwave in a covered dish to keep the sauce creamy and prevent drying out. Add a splash of plant-based cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and rich flavor, and they work beautifully in the Crockpot Marry Me Chicken recipe.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

The recipe already uses plant-based cheese and cream alternatives, which makes it perfect for dairy-free diets.

Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?

Yes, you can simmer the ingredients gently in a covered pan for about 30–40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?

Roasted red peppers or chopped tomatoes work well if you want a milder or fresher flavor.

How spicy is this dish?

The original recipe is mild, but you can easily spice it up by adding red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce during cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a delicious, comforting meal that’s surprisingly simple to prepare and impressively flavorful. With every bite, you’ll enjoy the perfect combination of creamy, smoky, and tangy notes that feel like a warm hug on a plate. Give it a try and bring a new favorite to your dinner table that everyone will love.

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