This article unveils a delectable and straightforward recipe for Keto Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken, a dish so flavorful it might just elicit a proposal. Inspired by the popular "Marry Me Chicken" recipe, this version is adapted for a slow cooker, making it a fuss-free and healthy option for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.
The Origin of "Marry Me Chicken"
The name "Marry Me Chicken" stems from the belief that the dish is so delicious, anyone who tastes it will immediately propose. Another theory suggests the name comes from how the flavors of the sun-dried tomatoes meld into the sauce, creating a harmonious sweet and savory taste. Regardless of its origin, this recipe has gained traction across social media for its simplicity and mouthwatering taste.
Why This Recipe Works
This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken recipe is a healthy take on the beloved dish, perfect for an effortless weeknight dinner. The slow cooker adaptation makes it a hands-off meal, ideal for busy individuals. The recipe is naturally low-carb and gluten-free, providing 34 grams of protein per serving. It pairs well with various veggie sides, making it easy to round out the dish.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you'll need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs
- Low-sodium chicken broth
- Sun-dried tomatoes (not in oil)
- Cottage cheese
- Olive oil
- Shallot
- Garlic
- Italian seasoning
- Onion powder
- Cornstarch
- Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: Chili crunch oil or red pepper flakes, fresh basil leaves, red pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here's how to make this delightful dish:
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- Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. In a small bowl, mix together salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with the seasoning mix.
- Add the olive oil to a pan over medium heat on the stove. Then, add the chopped shallot and crushed garlic to the pan. Sauté the shallot and garlic for about 2 minutes. From there, move the shallot and garlic to one side of the pan.
- Sear the seasoned chicken breasts in the pan for about 2-3 minutes on each side. While searing, sprinkle the onion powder and Italian seasoning over the chicken.
- Place the seared chicken in the slow cooker. Then, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, low-sodium chicken broth, and optional chili crunch oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and cornstarch. Pour the broth and the cream over the chicken. Sprinkle with the garlic and the seasonings. Top wit the butter and sun dried tomatoes.
- Place the lid on the slow cooker and cook everything on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- About 30 minutes before serving, prepare a cornstarch slurry by mixing the cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce. Let everything cook on low for 30 minutes to thicken the sauce.
- When ready to serve, turn off the slow cooker and remove the chicken. Before adding the grated Parmesan and blended cottage cheese, it’s important to stop the cooking process to lower the overall heat. This helps ensure that the sauce isn’t too hot, which could cause the cottage cheese to separate. Once the heat has reduced, stir in the Parmesan and cottage cheese, mixing well until smooth.
Tips for the Perfect Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken
- Sear the chicken: Searing the chicken in the pan you cook the shallot and garlic in is recommended. Season the chicken and then sear it for a couple of minutes per side before adding it to the Crockpot.
- Blend the cottage cheese: Blending the cottage cheese is key for a smooth and creamy sauce. The cottage cheese must be blended for this recipe.
- Thicken the sauce: Add the cornstarch slurry about 30 minutes before the dish is done and let it thicken on low while stirring occasionally.
- When to add the cottage cheese: Once your sauce has thickened, stir in the blended cottage cheese just before serving. It’s important to turn off the slow cooker first to lower the heat, as this helps prevent the cottage cheese from separating.
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooking chicken is the most common reason for it to turn out rubbery. To prevent this, it’s not recommended to cook it for more than 4 hours on low.
Variations and Substitutions
- For an extra creamy texture, substitute the blended cottage cheese with light cream cheese. Add 4 ounces of softened light cream cheese to the recipe instead of the cottage cheese.
- If you really don’t care for sun-dried tomatoes, you could leave them out and the sauce would still be delicious. However, the tomatoes add so much flavor and richness to the overall recipe - I encourage you to try them!
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts work well, but you can also use boneless skinless chicken thighs for darker meat.
- If you prefer to make this with sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes, swap in ⅓ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes and omit the salt altogether.
- May use half-and-half in place of the heavy cream.
Serving Suggestions
This Marry Me Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides:
- Mashed potatoes, cooked rice, or cooked pasta
- Spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option
- Sautéed asparagus, air fryer Brussels sprouts, or roasted green beans
- Green goddess salad or gluten-free olive bread
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers of the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To warm it up, reheat the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium heat on the stovetop. Reheat the sauce over low heat to prevent the cottage cheese from separating.
Is Marry Me Chicken Healthy?
This version of the viral Marry Me Chicken dish is a healthier option! There is no heavy cream or butter in this recipe, and we only used one teaspoon of oil. Cottage cheese is used to create a creamy texture without added fat, making it healthier while still delicious.
Can I Make Marry Me Chicken Ahead Of Time?
Absolutely! While Marry Me Chicken is best enjoyed warm after making it, you can prepare it ahead of time. Leftovers are perfect for meal prep and can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
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