Name: Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-487839H9M30S
Total time: PT-487839H9M30S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 6 chicken thighs (skinless or skin-on); 2 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 tsp olive oil (optional); ¼ cup white wine + ¼ cup water (or ½ cup chicken broth); 4 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes, drained and diced; 1 tsp sweet paprika; 1 tsp garlic granules; 1 tsp chicken bouillon (only if using wine); ½ cup sour cream or heavy cream; 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water (optional for thickening); 2–3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp chopped flat-leaf parsley or fresh basil

Jump to Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping yet incredibly easy dinner, Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Thighs is the cozy, irresistible meal that never fails to impress. Tender chicken thighs luxuriate in a dreamy sauce of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and cream, all made effortlessly in your slow cooker. Whether you’re cooking for family or hoping for a dinner that’ll earn rave reviews, this dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss—and you just might find yourself making it on repeat!

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Thighs Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Thighs is how each simple ingredient plays a starring role, coming together to create layers of savory goodness. Thoughtful seasoning, rich dairy, and a pop of sun-dried tomato color make this dish both comforting and unforgettable.

Chicken thighs: The star protein; thighs stay juicy and tender during slow cooking.

Italian seasoning: Adds fragrant, herby notes for depth and classic flavor.
Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing out the savory qualities of both chicken and sauce.

Unsalted butter: Gives the chicken a golden, rich flavor right from the start.
Olive oil (optional): Helps with browning, especially if your skillet tends to stick.

White wine + water or chicken broth: Deglazes the skillet, bringing all those tasty browned bits into the mix.
Sun-dried tomatoes: Intensely flavored and lightly chewy; they’re the secret ingredient that sing in every bite.
Sweet paprika: Offers gentle warmth and a stunning color to the sauce.

Garlic granules: Deliver punchy, aromatic depth without the fuss of chopping fresh garlic.
Chicken bouillon (if using wine): Bumps up the savory, umami backbone of the sauce.
Sour cream or heavy cream: Adds luscious creaminess to bind everything together.

Cornstarch slurry (optional): Thickens the sauce for that perfect, spoon-coating consistency.
Parmesan cheese: Offers nutty, salty complexity and silkiness to the sauce.
Chopped flat-leaf parsley or basil: For a fresh, bright finish that lifts the entire dish.

How to Make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This initial layer of flavor is important—it gently infuses the meat as it cooks and ensures every bite is tasty from the inside out.

Step 2: Sear for Flavor

In a skillet, melt the unsalted butter along with olive oil (if using) over medium heat. Place the chicken thighs in the hot pan and let them brown for about 3–4 minutes per side. Browning is crucial—it caramelizes the outside and adds incredible depth to the finished dish.

Step 3: Transfer to Crockpot

Move the beautifully browned chicken thighs straight into your crockpot. You’ll want all those golden bits; they will flavor the sauce as it simmers away.

Step 4: Deglaze the Skillet

While the skillet is still hot, pour in the white wine and water (or chicken broth). Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any caramelized bits stuck to the bottom—this is where so much flavor lives! Pour everything, including those tiny savory bits, right over the chicken in the crockpot.

Step 5: Build the Sauce

Add sun-dried tomatoes, sweet paprika, garlic granules, and chicken bouillon (if you’re using wine). Pop on the lid, set your crockpot to low for 5–6 hours, or high for 2½–3 hours. This slow bubble allows all the flavors to meld into something extraordinary.

Step 6: Finish with Creaminess and Cheese

When the chicken is meltingly tender, stir in your sour cream or heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. If you love a thicker sauce, whisk in the optional cornstarch slurry at this point. Let everything cook together for about 15 more minutes—it gives the sauce time to marry and thicken beautifully.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Right before serving, sprinkle over a flurry of chopped parsley or fresh basil. This final touch makes Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Thighs feel extra-special and adds a hint of freshness to each bite.

How to Serve Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Thighs

Garnishes

To finish, a sprinkle of vibrant parsley or basil not only brightens the look but also lifts the creamy flavors. For a touch of luxury, shave a little extra Parmesan over the top just before serving—it’s always a welcome flourish!

Side Dishes

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Thighs are delicious with just about any sidekick. Creamy mashed potatoes or buttered rice make the perfect canvas to soak up the velvety sauce. Garlic bread, steamed green beans, or a light green salad also pair wonderfully, balancing the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to wow your guests, spoon the chicken and sauce over toasted brioche or fluffy polenta bowls. For a rustic, family-style approach, bring the crockpot pot straight to the table and let everyone dig in. Any way you present it, this dish practically begs for warm bread to swipe through the sauce!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Thighs are a true gift for tomorrow’s lunch or dinner. Store cooled chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making the leftovers even more mouthwatering.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully! Once cooled, transfer the chicken and sauce to a freezer-safe container (or portion into individual servings). Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or a little cream if the sauce seems thick. Alternatively, microwave in bursts, covering loosely, until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless thighs are perfect in Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Thighs, and they’ll cook even faster. Just be sure to check for doneness after the minimum cooking time.

Is it possible to use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be swapped in, but be cautious—breasts can dry out a bit more easily. Reduce the cook time slightly and check for doneness early to keep them juicy.

What can I use instead of white wine?

If you prefer not to use wine, simply substitute with an equal amount of chicken broth for amazing flavor and a family-friendly result.

Can I add vegetables to the crockpot?

Definitely! Sliced mushrooms, spinach, or diced bell peppers can be added along with the sun-dried tomatoes for a little extra color and nutrition in your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Thighs.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken should be fork-tender and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If it easily pulls apart with a fork and looks opaque all the way through, it’s ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re wooing a special someone or just need a cozy dinner everyone loves, Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Thighs never disappoints. It’s that magical combination of minimal effort and major flavor payoff—so give it a try and let this recipe win a top spot in your meal rotation!