High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and packed with protein, then you’ll absolutely love my High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken. This recipe has become a cherished favorite in my home, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress family and friends without spending all day in the kitchen. The creamy sun-dried tomato sauce is rich in flavor, while the slow cooker does all the hard work, making it a breeze to prepare.

Imagine coming home after a long day to find your dinner ready and waiting for you—there’s just something so wonderful about that! Whether you’re serving it up for a casual family dinner or a gathering, this dish is sure to win hearts and appetites alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can set this dish and forget about it until dinner time.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The creamy sauce and tender chicken are sure to please even the pickiest eaters at the table.
• High Protein Goodness: Packed with protein, this meal keeps you feeling satisfied without compromising on taste.
• Healthy Twist: Low in carbs but rich in flavor, it’s a great choice for anyone looking to eat healthily without sacrificing deliciousness.
• Make Ahead Convenience: It’s perfect for meal prep; simply store leftovers for a quick lunch or dinner later in the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this dish is easy with these simple, wholesome ingredients. You likely have most of them on hand already!

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

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

For Creaminess

• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup blended cottage cheese (any fat content)

For Garnish

• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible and can adapt to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey breast or firm tofu for a different take on this dish while keeping it high in protein.
• Change up the herbs: Substitute fresh basil with parsley or thyme for a new flavor profile that still complements the creamy sauce.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last hour of cooking for an extra boost of nutrients.
• Go dairy-free: Replace Parmesan and cottage cheese with nutritional yeast and cashew cream for a vegan-friendly version.

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 step is essential as it enhances the flavor right from the beginning. Don’t skip this part!

Step 2: Sauté Shallots and Garlic

In a skillet over medium heat, warm up olive oil and sauté shallots and garlic for about 2 minutes. Sautéing these ingredients brings out their natural sweetness, which will blend beautifully into your sauce.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Push the sautéed shallots and garlic to one side of the skillet. Next, sear your seasoned chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes on each side until they get a lovely golden color. This adds depth of flavor before they go into the crockpot!

Step 4: Slow Cook It

Transfer those beautiful chicken breasts into your slow cooker. Add in sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, and if you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some chili oil or red pepper flakes. The slow cooking allows all these flavors to meld together beautifully!

Step 5: Let it Cook

Set your slow cooker on LOW for 4–6 hours. When it’s done cooking, ensure that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F; that way you know it’s perfectly cooked through.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

About 30 minutes before serving, mix together cornstarch with water to create a slurry and stir it into your sauce. This thickens things up nicely without adding heavy cream.

Step 7: Add Creaminess

Once you’ve turned off the heat, stir in grated Parmesan cheese and blended cottage cheese until smooth. These ingredients give that rich creaminess we all crave!

Step 8: Serve It Up

Return your chicken to that delicious sauce, ensuring each piece is coated thoroughly. Garnish generously with fresh basil before serving; it adds such vibrant flavor and color! Enjoy every bite!

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 helpful tips in mind!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and shallots elevate the flavor profile of this dish, making it more aromatic and delicious compared to dried alternatives.

• Don’t Skip the Searing: Searing the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker helps lock in juices and adds a rich, caramelized flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.

• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to tweak the seasoning according to your preference—adding a little more Italian seasoning or garlic can make a significant difference depending on your taste buds.

• Thicken It Up Perfectly: Make sure to prepare the cornstarch slurry properly; mixing cornstarch with water before adding it to the slow cooker ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce.

• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the chicken to sit in the sauce for a few minutes after cooking lets all those flavors meld together beautifully!

How to Serve High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

Presenting your High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken can turn an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve it!

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the dish just before serving for a burst of color and flavor.
• Parmesan Shavings: Add a few shavings of Parmesan cheese on top for an elegant touch and extra creaminess.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes that complements the creamy sauce well while adding extra veggies to your meal.

• Zucchini Noodles: Light and refreshing, zucchini noodles offer a great way to soak up the delicious sauce without adding too many carbs.

• Roasted Asparagus: The slight crunch and earthy flavor of roasted asparagus pairs perfectly with the rich chicken dish, providing a nice contrast in texture.

• Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed side that adds freshness and can be mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette for an added zing.

Make Ahead and Storage

This High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious, flavorful meals throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the chicken into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, covered, until warmed through (about 2-3 minutes).
• For best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

Can I make High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken without cottage cheese?

Yes! You can substitute blended cottage cheese with other high-protein alternatives like Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese for a similar texture.

How long does it take to cook High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken?

Cooking time ranges from 4 to 6 hours on LOW in the crockpot, depending on your appliance and chicken thickness. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

What can I serve with High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken?

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, zoodles (zucchini noodles), or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Is High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe stores well and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for meal prep enthusiasts looking to simplify their weeknight dinners.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this delightful High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken! Its creamy sun-dried tomato sauce and tender chicken are bound to impress everyone at your table. Enjoy making this dish as much as I do, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!