As I stirred the simmering pot, the divine aroma of my Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach wafted through the kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. This Tuscan-inspired dish has a special way of transforming an ordinary weeknight into an unforgettable experience. Imagine tender chicken swimming in a luscious, creamy tomato sauce, punctuated by lively garlic, fragrant thyme, and the delightful bite of sun-dried tomatoes. What makes this recipe a true gem is its effortlessly low-key preparation—perfect for busy evenings—allowing you to savor every moment without stress. Plus, it’s the ultimate comfort food that warms the soul and pleases those you love. Ready to discover how to create a delicious and cozy dinner with minimal fuss?

Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach

Why Is This Chicken So Irresistible?

Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps in the slow cooker, you can relish a gourmet meal without the stress.

Creamy Indulgence: The velvety tomato cream sauce envelops juicy chicken, providing a rich and comforting experience that you’ll crave again and again.

Flavor Explosion: Garlic, thyme, and sun-dried tomatoes combine to elevate this dish, delivering a taste of Tuscan cuisine right at your dining table.

Versatile Pairing: Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes or toss it with pasta to soak up all that delightful sauce—your culinary options are endless!

Crowd-Pleaser: This dish will wow family and friends alike, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. Plus, if you’re looking for more comfort food inspiration, check out my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta or Classic Chicken Parmesan.

Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Ingredients

• Get ready to create a delightful dish with these essential ingredients!

For the Chicken

Chicken Breasts or Thighs – Tender and juicy; thighs offer extra richness during slow cooking.

For the Sauce

Tomato Sauce – The creamy base for our sauce; canned or homemade works beautifully.
Minced Garlic – Enhances the aroma; go for fresh garlic for maximum flavor.
Kosher Salt – Balances and elevates flavors; sea salt is a fine alternative.
Dried Thyme – Infuses herby goodness; fresh thyme is even more aromatic!
Freshly Ground Black Pepper – For that extra kick; adjust to your taste.
Heavy Cream – Provides luscious creaminess; swap for coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce to perfection; flour is an acceptable substitute.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Adds a sweet and tangy bite; choose those packed in oil for best results.
Parmesan Cheese – Offers a cheesy richness; nutritional yeast caters to a vegan option.
Baby Spinach – Adds a fresh crispness that brightens the dish; kale or Swiss chard work too.

With these ingredients for your Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach, you’re well on your way to a meal that’s both heartwarming and unforgettable!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach

Step 1: Prepare Sauce Base
In the slow cooker, pour in the tomato sauce and add the minced garlic, kosher salt, dried thyme, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir the ingredients together until well combined, creating a fragrant sauce that will be the foundation of your Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken.

Step 2: Whisk Cream Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine the heavy cream and cornstarch, whisking until the mixture is smooth and lump-free. This creamy blend will enhance the sauce’s richness. Slowly pour the cream mixture into the slow cooker, gently mixing it into the sauce to ensure even distribution, then prepare to add the chicken.

Step 3: Coat Chicken
Take the chicken breasts or thighs, placing them directly into the creamy sauce in the slow cooker. Make sure each piece is well-coated with the sauce, providing optimal flavor as it cooks. The chicken should be submerged in the mixture, ready to absorb all the delicious Tuscan-inspired notes during the cooking process.

Step 4: Cook Chicken
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat, allowing the chicken to cook for 3 to 4 hours. During this time, the chicken will become tender and juicy, reaching the ideal internal temperature of 165°F. The sauce will also thicken slightly, turning into a creamy delight that fills your kitchen with a heavenly aroma.

Step 5: Finish Sauce
Once the chicken is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of sugar into the sauce. Follow this by adding the fresh baby spinach, and stir gently until it wilts and brightens the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor of your Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken.

Step 6: Serve
You can slice the chicken and return it to the sauce for a quick warm-up or serve it separately for a rustic presentation. Spoon the creamy sauce generously over the chicken, allowing each bite to be infused with the vibrant flavors of the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. Enjoy your comforting weeknight dinner!

Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach

What to Serve With Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach

Create an unforgettable family dinner by complementing your creamy chicken masterpiece with colorful, delicious sides.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These fluffy potatoes soak up the rich sauce perfectly, balancing flavors and textures for ultimate comfort.
Garlic Bread: Crisp and buttery, this classic side is ideal for mopping up every drop of that luscious sauce, adding a satisfying crunch.
Steamed Broccoli: With its bright green color and slightly crisp texture, broccoli adds a fresh and healthy element to your meal, balancing the richness.
Tossed Green Salad: A mix of peppery arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken, enhancing your dining experience.
Pasta: Serve over al dente pasta to soak up extra sauce, offering a delightful twist that pays homage to its Tuscan roots.
White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio adds a bright acidity that pairs beautifully with the flavors of your Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken.
Dessert: Tiramisu: This light and creamy Italian dessert would be the perfect sweet finish to your comforting meal, echoing the Tuscan theme beautifully.

Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with some delicious twists and substitutions!

Herb Swap: Replace dried thyme with fresh oregano or basil to bring a new layer of flavor to the dish.
Cheese Change: Try Gruyère or feta cheese for a unique cheesy experience that can switch things up in the sauce.
Vegan Delight: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and replace heavy cream with coconut cream and nutritional yeast. A lovely way to enjoy this dish plant-based!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for a delightful heat that builds with every bite.
Vegetable Boost: Incorporate seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and a pop of color in your hearty dish.
Pasta Version: Toss in some cooked pasta during the last few minutes of cooking to create a delightful one-pot meal that even the pickiest eaters will adore.
Coconut Curry: For an exotic twist, mix in some curry powder along with the cream for a warm, curry-flavored sauce that’s full of surprises.
Citrus Zing: Add a splash of fresh lemon juice or a bit of zest before serving to brighten and lift the flavors beautifully.

With these variations, you’ll keep each serving of Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach exciting and tailored to your taste. Enjoy the journey of creating every delicious meal!

Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken

• Cook Temperature Check: Always ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F—this guarantees a safe, succulent meal every time.

• Thickening Sauce: If the sauce seems too thin after cooking, just remove the chicken and let the sauce simmer uncovered on high for 15-20 minutes to thicken beautifully.

• Seasonal Twist: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, for a burst of flavor and nutrition in your Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken.

• Storage Strategy: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheating may require a splash of cream or broth to restore that creamy texture.

• Prep Ahead: For a quick meal, prepare the ingredients the night before and refrigerate. Just pop everything into the slow cooker the next day!

Make Ahead Options

These Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the sauce base (tomato sauce, minced garlic, salt, thyme, and pepper) up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The chicken can be coated in the sauce and refrigerated for up to 3 days before cooking, ensuring it’s just as juicy and flavorful when you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to enjoy, simply toss everything in the slow cooker and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours. You’ll have a comforting dish with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights!

Storage Tips for Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring the creamy sauce remains fresh and delicious.

Freezer: This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Portion the chicken and sauce in freezer-safe containers, allowing for easy weeknight meals later.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions: Consider serving the reheated chicken over freshly made pasta or mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach

Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Both chicken breasts and thighs work beautifully, but I recommend chicken thighs for a juicier result. They stay tender during the long cooking process in the slow cooker, absorbing all those delightful flavors!

How long can I store leftovers of Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool down before sealing. If you’re reheating, consider adding a splash of cream or broth to bring back that creamy texture!

Can I freeze the Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken?
Very! This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Fatigue from making dinner? Simply portion the chicken and sauce into freezer-safe containers. When ready to reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and gently warm it on the stovetop, adding a little cream or broth to restore the sauce’s consistency.

What should I do if my sauce is too thin after cooking?
If you find the sauce too thin, no worries! Just remove the chicken, cover the slow cooker, and let the sauce simmer uncovered on high for 15-20 minutes. This should help it thicken up nicely!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes, for those who’re dairy-free, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and skip the Parmesan cheese, opting for nutritional yeast instead. Just be sure to check for any allergies, especially with sun-dried tomatoes or cheese options.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes on hand, you can use fresh tomatoes instead. Just chop them up and add them to the sauce. You can also add a bit of sweetness with a teaspoon of sugar to mimic the flavor profile of sun-dried tomatoes.