If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort, ease, and a touch of romance, look no further than this High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken! This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen because it delivers big on flavor while keeping things simple. Just imagine coming home after a long day to the irresistible aroma of creamy sun-dried tomato sauce mingling with tender chicken. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or even when you want to impress family and friends at gatherings.
The best part? It’s not just delicious; it’s also high in protein and low in carbs, making it a satisfying meal option for everyone. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up something special for date night, this dish is sure to win hearts across the globe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: With just a few minutes of prep and your slow cooker doing the heavy lifting, you can enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Family-Friendly Flavor: Creamy, savory, and packed with Italian-inspired goodness, this dish is bound to be a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults alike.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! Just set it and forget it; you’ll have wholesome leftovers to enjoy throughout the week.
- High Protein Goodness: Each serving is loaded with protein, making it not only tasty but also nutritious—perfect for those looking to fuel their bodies well.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple ingredients will make your cooking experience enjoyable and stress-free. Each item contributes to that rich and creamy sauce we all love. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Sauce
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (not in oil)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon chili crunch oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
For Thickening and Flavor
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup blended cottage cheese (any fat content)
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Variations
This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to adapt it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations:
- Swap the protein: Try using turkey breasts or even chickpeas for a plant-based twist!
- Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last hour of cooking for extra nutrients.
- Change up the cheese: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan and use a vegan cream alternative.
- Spice it up: Add more chili crunch oil or diced jalapeños if you love an extra kick!
How to Make High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with kosher salt and pepper. This helps enhance the natural flavors right from the beginning!
Step 2: Sauté Shallots and Garlic
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the finely chopped shallot and crushed garlic for about 2 minutes until they’re fragrant. This step brings out their sweetness and adds depth to your sauce.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Push the sautéed ingredients aside and place your seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for 2–3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Sprinkle onion powder and Italian seasoning over them while searing—this adds an aromatic flavor profile that makes every bite delightful.
Step 4: Transfer Everything to Your Slow Cooker
Carefully transfer your seared chicken into the slow cooker. Add in those lovely sun-dried tomatoes along with low-sodium chicken broth and optional chili oil or red pepper flakes if you like some heat. This combination creates a rich sauce as everything cooks together.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Set your slow cooker on LOW for 4–6 hours or until the internal temperature of your chicken reaches 165°F. The longer it cooks, the more flavorful it becomes—so don’t rush this step!
Step 6: Thicken That Sauce!
About 30 minutes before cooking completes, stir in your cornstarch slurry (mixing equal parts cornstarch with water) to thicken that luscious sauce beautifully.
Step 7: Stir In Cheese
Once done cooking, turn off the heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with blended cottage cheese until smooth. This gives your sauce that creamy finish we all crave.
Step 8: Serve It Up!
Return your chicken back into that glorious sauce so it’s coated thoroughly. Garnish with fresh chopped basil before serving—it adds not just vibrant color but also fresh flavor! Enjoy every bite of this High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken!
Pro Tips for Making High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
To ensure your High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken turns out perfectly every time, keep these handy tips in mind:
- Don’t skip the searing: Searing the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker locks in moisture and adds a beautiful depth of flavor.
- Use low-sodium broth: Opting for low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control the saltiness of the dish while still providing rich flavor.
- Adjust cooking time based on your slow cooker: Different slow cookers can vary in temperature; always check that your chicken reaches 165°F for safety.
- Make it ahead of time: This dish can be prepared a day in advance and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste; adding herbs like thyme or oregano can give an extra layer of flavor.
How to Serve High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Presenting your High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken beautifully can enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine!
Garnishes
- Fresh basil: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that complements the creamy sauce.
- Lemon zest: Grating a bit of lemon zest over the top just before serving brightens up the dish and balances its richness.
Side Dishes
- Zucchini noodles: Light and healthy, zucchini noodles provide a lovely base that soaks up the creamy sauce while keeping carbs low.
- Quinoa salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes offers a nutritious side that pairs well with the Italian flavors of the chicken.
- Garlic mashed cauliflower: This creamy alternative to traditional mashed potatoes is not only delicious but also aligns perfectly with a low-carb diet.
- Steamed broccoli: Simple yet effective, steamed broccoli adds a pop of color and nutrients, making it an excellent companion to this hearty dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
This High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week. You can make a big batch and store it for quick, nutritious meals.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
- Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing
- Let the cooked chicken cool down before freezing.
- Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
- Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy reference.
Reheating
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating if frozen.
- Reheat in the microwave on medium power until heated through, stirring occasionally.
- Alternatively, reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to maintain moisture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken?
Yes! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and will add even more flavor. Just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
How do I make High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken lower in calories?
To reduce calories, consider using less cheese or substituting with low-fat alternatives. You can also increase the amount of vegetables added to the dish.
Is High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep as it stores well and can be easily reheated throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken as much as I do! It’s not only delicious but also packed with protein, making it a fantastic choice for your family dinners or meal prepping. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a favorite at your table!
High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that brings romance and ease to your dinner table. This simple yet flavorful dish features tender chicken breasts simmered in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce that’s sure to impress. A delightful blend of Italian-inspired spices and wholesome ingredients makes this recipe perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With its high protein content and low carb profile, it caters to both health enthusiasts and those looking for a satisfying meal. Imagine coming home to the tantalizing aroma wafting through your kitchen—comfort food at its finest!
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (not in oil)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon chili crunch oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup blended cottage cheese (any fat content)
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Sauté shallots and garlic in olive oil until fragrant; then sear the chicken until golden brown.
- Transfer seared chicken into a slow cooker along with sun-dried tomatoes and chicken broth.
- Cook on LOW for 4–6 hours until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Add cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce about 30 minutes before cooking ends.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and blended cottage cheese for a creamy finish.
- Serve garnished with fresh basil.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4–6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (about 200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 55g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
