Easy Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken (Print version)

Tender slow cooker chicken in a creamy garlic parmesan sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and basil.

# Ingredients:

For the chicken

01 - 2 lb (900 g) boneless skinless chicken breasts
02 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
03 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
04 - 1 tablespoon olive oil, optional for searing
05 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, optional for searing

For the sauce

06 - 1 cup (240 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
07 - 1 tablespoon cornstarch
08 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
09 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
10 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
11 - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
12 - 1/2 cup (75 g) oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
13 - 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, warmed slightly
14 - 1/2 cup (45 g) freshly grated parmesan cheese
15 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil, plus more for serving

# Instructions:

01 - Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. For extra color, sear it in olive oil and butter for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer it to the slow cooker. You can skip searing for a simpler prep.
02 - In a bowl, whisk the chicken broth, cornstarch, garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes until no dry cornstarch remains.
03 - Pour the broth mixture around the chicken and scatter the sun-dried tomatoes over the top. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1.5-2.5 hours, until the chicken reaches 165°F.
04 - Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover loosely to keep warm. Leave the cooking liquid in the slow cooker.
05 - Stir the warmed heavy cream and parmesan into the hot liquid until smooth. Return the chicken to the slow cooker and spoon sauce over the top.
06 - Let the chicken sit on warm for 5-10 minutes, then garnish with basil. Serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables.

# Good to know:

01 - Best served warm soon after the cream and parmesan are added.
02 - Chicken thighs may be used in the same weight amount.
03 - Check broth and parmesan labels if cooking for a strict gluten-free diet.