Crockpot Marry Me Chicken: A Flavorful and Convenient Recipe

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken – the name alone conjures images of tender, juicy chicken bathed in a creamy, flavorful sauce. And let me tell you, the reality lives up to the hype! This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience, a culinary journey that will leave you wondering why you ever spent time fussing over complicated chicken dishes.

While the exact origins of this dish are a bit hazy, its popularity speaks volumes. It’s a modern classic, born from the desire for simple, delicious meals that require minimal effort. The beauty of Crockpot Marry Me Chicken lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s the perfect weeknight meal, ready to greet you with its comforting aroma after a long day. No more stressful evenings spent slaving over a hot stove!

What makes this dish so beloved? It’s the perfect balance of flavors – savory, tangy, and slightly sweet. The chicken, slow-cooked to perfection in the crockpot, becomes incredibly tender and falls right off the bone. The creamy sauce, rich with herbs and spices, is irresistible. And the best part? The cleanup is a breeze! Simply toss everything into your slow cooker and let it work its magic. This is a recipe that truly delivers on taste, texture, and convenience, making it a firm favorite in many homes.

So, are you ready to experience the magic of Crockpot Marry Me Chicken? Let’s get started!

Ingredients:

• 1 whole (about 3-4 pounds) chicken, cut into 8 pieces or use 2.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and 2.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts
• 1 (1 ounce) packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 (1 ounce) packet onion soup mix
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup creamy ranch dressing
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken and Vegetables:

1. First, I like to pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes browning.
2. In a large bowl, I whisk together the ranch seasoning mix, onion soup mix, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, thyme, and cayenne pepper (if using). I make sure everything is well combined.
3. Next, I generously coat each piece of chicken with the seasoning mixture, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. I really press the seasoning into the chicken for maximum flavor.
4. In a large skillet, I heat the olive oil and melted butter over medium-high heat. I brown the chicken pieces on all sides. This step isn’t strictly necessary, but it adds a lovely depth of flavor.
5. While the chicken is browning, I chop the onion, carrots, and celery. I aim for roughly equal-sized pieces for even cooking.

Slow Cooking the Chicken:

1. Once the chicken is browned, I transfer it to my slow cooker. I arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer if possible.
2. I add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker on top of the chicken.
3. Pour the chicken broth and undrained Rotel over the chicken and vegetables. The liquids from the Rotel add a nice tang.
4. I cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork. The cooking time will depend on the size of your chicken pieces and your slow cooker.
5. About 30 minutes before the chicken is finished cooking, I stir in the softened cream cheese. I make sure it’s fully incorporated and melted into the sauce.
6. During the last 10 minutes of cooking, I stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. This melts beautifully into the creamy sauce.

Shredding and Serving:

1. Once the chicken is cooked through, I carefully remove it from the slow cooker and set it aside to cool slightly. I use two forks to shred the chicken, discarding any bones or excess skin.
2. I then return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it into the sauce. I like to make sure everything is well combined.
3. I taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Sometimes I add a little more ranch dressing or a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Finally, I serve the Marry Me Chicken hot, garnished with fresh parsley. I often serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
5. For an even richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce along with the cream cheese.
6. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Tips and Variations:

1. For a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
2. Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to the slow cooker.
3. If you don’t have Rotel, you can substitute with a can of diced tomatoes or a combination of diced tomatoes and green chilies.
4. For a spicier dish, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
5. You can also use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and breasts instead of a whole chicken. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
6. To make this recipe in an Instant Pot, follow the same instructions for preparing the chicken and vegetables. Then, pressure cook on high for 20 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural pressure release. Stir in the cream cheese and cheddar cheese during the last 5 minutes of the natural pressure release.

Conclusion:

So there you have it – my Crockpot Marry Me Chicken recipe! I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy. The hands-on time is minimal, leaving you free to tackle other tasks while the magic happens in your slow cooker. Second, the flavor is simply phenomenal. That creamy, dreamy sauce, perfectly coating each tender piece of chicken, is unbelievably delicious. It’s the kind of dish that will have everyone asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds!). And third, it’s incredibly versatile. This isn’t just a weeknight dinner; it’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for potlucks, game day, or any special occasion.

This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s the aroma that fills your kitchen all day long, the comforting warmth of a slow-cooked meal, and the joy of sharing a delicious dish with loved ones. I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m so excited for you to try it.

Serving Suggestions:

This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is incredibly adaptable. I love serving it over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes, allowing the creamy sauce to mingle with the potatoes for an extra layer of flavor. Alternatively, a side of creamy polenta or even some simple rice is a perfect accompaniment. The richness of the chicken pairs beautifully with the simplicity of these sides, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.

For a more complete meal, consider adding some roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or asparagus. The roasting process brings out their natural sweetness, creating a delightful contrast to the richness of the chicken. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette also adds a refreshing element to the meal.

Don’t be afraid to get creative! Experiment with different side dishes to find your perfect combination. The possibilities are endless!

Variations:

While the original recipe is already amazing, there are plenty of ways to customize it to your liking. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce. If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of garlic or other spices.

Feel free to substitute the chicken breasts with bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for a richer, more flavorful dish. You can also add other vegetables to the slow cooker, such as diced potatoes or onions, for a heartier meal. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

For a healthier option, you can reduce the amount of cream cheese or use a lighter alternative. You can also add some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme at the end of cooking for an extra burst of flavor.

Share Your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Experience!

I’d love to hear about your experience making this Crockpot Marry Me Chicken! Once you’ve tried it, please share your thoughts and photos on social media using the hashtag #CrockpotMarryMeChicken. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear how much you enjoyed this delicious and easy recipe. Let’s connect and share the love of this amazing dish!

Don’t delay – give this recipe a try today! You won’t regret it. This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Happy cooking!

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