Dump & Go Marry Me Chicken is just the kind of recipe that turns busy days into cozy dinner nights. It’s creamy, dreamy, and totally hands-off thanks to the slow cooker. Tender chicken breasts cook slowly in a luscious sauce made from cream, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and those little bursts of flavor that make you want to shout “marry me!” (or at least promise yourself another helping).
I love how easy this dish is to throw together — just dump the ingredients in the crockpot and let it work its magic while I get on with the rest of my day. No fussing over stains or timing, which makes it my go-to recipe when I’m craving something comforting but don’t have the energy to stand over the stove. The creamy sauce thickens up perfectly by the time it’s done, coating every bite with rich, savory goodness.
My favorite way to serve this chicken is over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes so that you can soak up every bit of that sauce. It’s a total crowd-pleaser at family dinners and always gets people asking for the recipe. Honestly, I think it’s the kind of meal that could win hearts, which is why the name “Marry Me Chicken” feels just right!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken thighs or breasts: Thighs give more flavor and stay juicy, but breasts work if you want leaner meat. Just watch the cooking time to avoid drying out.
Heavy cream: This makes the sauce smooth and rich. For a lighter option, try half-and-half or coconut milk, but the sauce may be less thick.
Sun-dried tomatoes: They add a tangy sweetness that pairs great with creamy sauce. If you can’t find oil-packed, use dry ones and soak them in warm water first.
Mushrooms: They bring earthy depth and texture. Feel free to swap with zucchini or bell peppers for a different twist.
Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds extra savory depth. You can skip or replace with Pecorino or nutritional yeast for dairy-free options.
How Can You Get the Creamy Sauce Just Right in a Slow Cooker?
The creamy sauce is the heart of this dish, so it’s worth giving it attention.
- Whisk the cream and broth well before adding to prevent lumps.
- Cook on low to avoid curdling from high heat.
- If the sauce is too thin, don’t panic—remove the chicken, then cook uncovered on high or thicken with a bit of cornstarch mixed with water.
- Stir gently at the end to mix flavors but avoid breaking the chicken.
These steps keep the sauce velvety and rich, making every bite creamy and delicious.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Crockpot or slow cooker – It’s perfect for hands-off cooking and makes the chicken tender and saucy.
- Mixing bowl – To whisk the cream, broth, and spices smoothly before pouring.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For easy, accurate ingredient amounts without guesswork.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – To gently stir the sauce without scratching your slow cooker.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken thighs for bone-in breasts for extra juicy, flavorful meat that stays moist.
- Add fresh spinach or kale in the last 30 minutes for a boost of greens and color.
- Stir in sun-dried tomato pesto instead of plain tomatoes for an herby twist.
- Try shredded mozzarella or fontina cheese melted into the sauce for gooey richness.
Dump & Go Marry Me Chicken – Creamy, Dreamy, Crockpot Magic!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (preferably oil-packed, drained and chopped)
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a slight kick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley sprigs for garnish
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra richness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 to 15 minutes to prep and assemble the ingredients. Then, you’ll let the slow cooker work its magic for 4 to 6 hours on low. It’s perfect for a hands-off meal that fills your home with amazing aroma and flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Generously sprinkle the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. This helps build a flavorful base for your sauce.
2. Build the Slow Cooker Base:
Place the chicken in a single layer at the bottom of your slow cooker. Scatter the sun-dried tomatoes, sliced mushrooms, and minced garlic evenly over the chicken.
3. Mix the Creamy Sauce:
In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, the remaining Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), and Parmesan cheese. Make sure the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Combine and Cook:
Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
5. Final Touches:
When it’s done, gently stir the sauce to combine all the wonderful flavors. If the sauce feels too thin, take out the chicken, then cook the sauce uncovered on high for 20-30 minutes to thicken. You can also thicken it on the stove using a cornstarch slurry if you prefer.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the creamy chicken over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley. Add a little extra cracked pepper if you like. Dig in and enjoy your dreamy, comforting Marry Me Chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method by sealing it in a bag and submerging in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble everything in the slow cooker insert and refrigerate overnight. When ready, just cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. This makes meal prep super easy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce creamy.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
Heavy cream gives the sauce its richness, but you can swap it with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free alternative. The sauce may be thinner, so consider thickening it with a little cornstarch slurry if needed.
