Slow Cooker Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Delight

Slow Cooker Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Delight is a creamy, flavorful chicken dish cooked with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, herbs, and Parmesan in a luscious cream sauce. It’s earned its name because it’s said to be so good, it might just inspire a marriage proposal. With tender chicken and a sauce that begs to be soaked up with bread, potatoes, or pasta, this dish has become a viral favorite for a reason.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is elegant enough for date night but simple enough for a weeknight dinner. The chicken is seared to golden perfection, then baked in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce that’s bursting with flavor. It pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from pasta to roasted vegetables. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor payoff, it’s a reliable crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 8 ounces each)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan
Fresh basil leaves, torn, for serving

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large ovenproof skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat.

2. Season chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Sear for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer chicken to a plate.

3. In the same skillet, heat remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil. Add garlic, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Stir in broth, sun-dried tomatoes, cream, and Parmesan. Season with salt and simmer briefly.

5. Return chicken and any juices to the skillet, coating with the sauce.

6. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake 10–12 minutes, until chicken is cooked through.

7. Spoon sauce over chicken and top with fresh basil before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Calories per serving: about 530

Variations

• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra juiciness.

• Swap in vegetable broth and serve the sauce over pasta or gnocchi for a vegetarian twist.

• Add spinach or kale to the sauce for extra greens.

• Mix in crispy bacon for a smoky touch.

• Double the sauce ingredients to serve over mashed potatoes or pasta.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it. Avoid freezing, as the cream sauce may separate.

FAQs

Why is it called Marry Me Chicken?

It’s rumored to be so delicious that it might elicit a marriage proposal after one bite.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, thighs are a great alternative and stay tender and juicy.

Do I need to bake it in the oven?

The oven helps finish cooking the chicken evenly, but you can cook it fully on the stovetop if preferred.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and sear the chicken in advance, then finish baking before serving.

What sides go best with Marry Me Chicken?

It pairs well with pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.

Can I make it less spicy?

Yes, reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes for a milder dish.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes, a splash of dry white wine added with the broth adds depth of flavor.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I make it dairy-free?

You can substitute coconut cream for the heavy cream and nutritional yeast for the Parmesan, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients. Use a larger skillet or two pans to avoid overcrowding.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken is the ultimate comforting yet impressive chicken dinner. With its creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, fresh herbs, and tender chicken, it’s guaranteed to impress family, friends, or a special someone. Whether for a romantic night in or a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again.