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Crockpot Marry Me Chicken in creamy Parmesan sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach and basil

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

Easy slow cooker chicken breasts with sun-dried tomatoes and a lighter creamy Parmesan sauce, finished with spinach and fresh basil.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours 40 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 510

Ingredients
  

Chicken and Sauce
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts about 2 pounds total, similar size
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes drained and chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 4 ounces light cream cheese softened and cubed
  • 1/2 cup evaporated milk
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan
  • 2 cups baby spinach loosely packed
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley chopped

Equipment

  • 5- to 6-quart slow cooker
  • Instant-read thermometer
  • Small whisk

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Arrange in one layer in a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker.
    Chicken breasts in a slow cooker with broth, garlic, herbs and sun-dried tomatoes
  2. Whisk the cool chicken broth and cornstarch until smooth. Pour around the chicken. Top with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and red pepper flakes.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours or high for 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 hours. Begin checking early. The thickest part of each breast must reach 165°F. Transfer the chicken to a clean plate and cover loosely.
  4. Whisk the softened cream cheese into the hot cooking liquid. Stir in evaporated milk and Parmesan. Cover and cook on high for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring once, until smooth and lightly thickened.
  5. Stir in the spinach and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning. Thin with warm broth or milk if needed.
  6. Return the chicken to the slow cooker and spoon sauce over it. Rest for 5 minutes, garnish with basil or parsley, and serve hot.

Notes

  • Use thawed chicken, not frozen, for even and safe slow cooking.
  • Chicken breast thickness and slow cookers vary; rely on a thermometer and avoid overcooking.
  • Add the dairy ingredients near the end for a smooth sauce.
  • Nutrition is an estimate and does not include side dishes.