marry me chicken crock pot recipe
The Best marry me chicken crock pot recipe
The slow cooker keeps everything tender and flavorful, so it’s great for busy families or when you’re entertaining. It’s also a great way to use up whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand—no waste, no stress. I’ve made it for game days, family dinners, and even just a regular night in when we’re all craving something warm and satisfying. Plus, it’s packed with good stuff—lean chicken, fresh veggies, and a touch of sweetness that makes it feel like a treat. It’s not just a meal; it’s a way to make sure everyone’s happy without the extra effort.
Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot
A tender, flavorful crock pot chicken dish that’s perfect for a romantic dinner or a comforting weeknight meal. The slow-cooked chicken absorbs rich tomato and herb flavors for a satisfying, shareable meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chiles
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
👨🍳Directions
-
1
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken thighs with thyme, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes per side until lightly browned. Remove chicken and set aside. -
2
In the same skillet, sauté diced onion and minced garlic until soft, about 3 minutes. Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chiles, tomato paste, cumin, oregano, and cayenne. Stir to combine and cook for 2 minutes. -
3
Pour the sauce mixture into the crock pot. Add chicken thighs and chicken broth. Stir gently to distribute flavors. -
4
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours, until chicken is tender and easily flakes with a fork. -
5
Remove chicken and shred if desired. Stir shredded chicken back into the sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes to thicken slightly. -
6
Garnish with chopped parsley, a drizzle of butter, and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
🔧Equipment
- Crock Pot
- Large skillet
- Knife and cutting board
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot
How do I adjust the cooking time for larger batches?
If you’re making this recipe for more than one serving, increase the cooking time by about 15–20 minutes per additional 4 servings. Keep an eye on the chicken—it should be tender and easily shredable with a fork, so pull it out a few minutes early if needed.
Can I substitute any of the ingredients?
Yes, you can swap the lemon juice for fresh lemon zest or a splash of white wine, and the garlic for minced fresh garlic. For the breadcrumbs, use crushed crackers or panko if you’re out. Just keep the total fat content similar to maintain flavor balance.
What if I don’t have a crockpot?
No problem! Transfer the ingredients to a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven, cover with foil, and simmer on low heat for 2–2.5 hours, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, bake at 325°F until the chicken reaches 165°F internally (about 1.5–2 hours).
How do I keep the chicken moist if I’m not using a crockpot?
Add a splash of chicken broth or water to the baking dish before baking, and cover it with foil for the first half of the cooking time. If the dish is too crowded, reduce the oven temperature by 25°F to prevent drying out.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the ingredients in the crockpot, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Cook as directed the next day—it’ll be just as tender, and the flavors will meld even better.
