High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken served with herbs and a creamy sauce

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Marrying simple ingredients with effortless cooking, this High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is bound to become a go-to favorite for busy weeknights. With juicy chicken breasts bathed in a creamy, flavor-packed sauce, your family will be begging for seconds—and perhaps a proposal!

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours
  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

  • Calories per serving: Approximately 320
  • Protein: 46 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 9 grams
  • Fat: 11 grams
  • Fiber: 1 gram
  • Sugar: 1 gram
  • Sodium: 570 mg

Why Make This High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

This dish isn’t just a feast for the taste buds; it’s also a protein powerhouse! Perfectly suited for anyone looking to maintain a nutritious diet, this crockpot recipe delivers tender chicken steeped in a rich sauce, offering a delightful mix of flavors. The addition of cottage cheese and Parmesan contributes to its high protein content, making it a fantastic option for fitness enthusiasts and families alike. Plus, the low-effort cooking method frees up your time, allowing you to focus on what you love!

How to Make High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

Creating this dish is a breeze! Here’s how to whip up this savory delight in just a few simple steps.

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6-8 oz each)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 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 red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated preferred)
  • 1/2 cup blended cottage cheese (any fat content, must be blended until completely smooth)
  • 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (for garnish)

Directions:

  • Step 1: Preparation

    Season chicken breasts evenly on both sides with kosher salt and black pepper. Set aside while you prepare the aromatics.

  • Step 2: Sautéing

    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add finely chopped shallot and crushed garlic, sautéing for about 2 minutes until fragrant and softened but not browned.

  • Step 3: Searing

    Push the aromatics to the side of your skillet and add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Sprinkle with onion powder and Italian seasoning during searing.

  • Step 4: Cooking

    Transfer the seared chicken and all pan drippings to your slow cooker, arranging chicken in a single layer. Add sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, and optional chili oil or red pepper flakes. Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F in the thickest part.

  • Step 5: Thickening

    After 3.5-5.5 hours of cooking (or 30 minutes before your target completion time), whisk together cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water to create a smooth slurry. Stir this into the sauce to thicken.

  • Step 6: Finishing

    Once cooking is complete, turn off the heat and stir in grated Parmesan and blended cottage cheese until the sauce is silky smooth. If sauce seems too thick, add 2-3 tablespoons of chicken broth. Return chicken to coat thoroughly, let rest for 5 minutes, then serve immediately garnished with fresh chopped basil.

How to Serve High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

This dish is versatile and can be served in numerous ways. Pair it with fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, serve over a bed of fresh greens or with steamed vegetables. Don’t forget to sprinkle each plate with extra fresh basil for a vibrant finish!

How to Store High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on low heat in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot throughout.

Expert Tips for Perfect High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

  • Searing is key: Don’t skip the searing step, as it adds depth of flavor.
  • Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and garlic make a noticeable taste difference.
  • Trim the chicken: Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts for a healthier dish.
  • Adjust the spice: If you prefer a little heat, add more chili oil or crushed red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
  • Taste before serving: Always taste and adjust your seasoning before serving to ensure maximum flavor.

Delicious Variations

  • Swap the chicken: Try this recipe with turkey breasts or even lean cuts of pork.
  • Add vegetables: For a one-pot meal, include vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms.
  • Make it creamy: For a richer sauce, swirl in some cream cheese along with the cottage cheese.
  • Herb options: Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or oregano, for varied flavor profiles.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I make this recipe in advance?
    Yes! You can prepare everything the night before, refrigerate, and cook the next day.

  • What can I substitute for cottage cheese?
    If you don’t have cottage cheese, you can use ricotta or a similar creamy cheese.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?
    Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free cornstarch and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

  • Can I double the recipe?
    Absolutely! Just make sure your slow cooker has enough space to accommodate the additional chicken.

  • What sides pair well with this dish?
    Consider pairing it with a light salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

With its mouthwatering flavors and protein-packed goodness, the High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a must-try recipe for any home cook. Enjoy the convenience of the crockpot while indulging in a comforting, delicious meal that’s bound to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and treat yourself to a delightful dinner tonight!

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High Protein Crockpot Marry Me Chicken


  • Author: lydia
  • Total Time: 255-375 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Description

A delicious and easy high-protein chicken dish cooked in a slow cooker, featuring a creamy, flavorful sauce.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (68 oz each)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 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 red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated preferred)
  • 1/2 cup blended cottage cheese (must be blended until completely smooth)
  • 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Season chicken breasts evenly on both sides with kosher salt and black pepper. Set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shallot and garlic, sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
  4. Transfer chicken and pan drippings to a slow cooker. Add sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, and optional chili oil. Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours.
  5. After cooking for 3.5-5.5 hours, whisk together cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir into sauce to thicken.
  6. Once cooking is complete, stir in Parmesan and blended cottage cheese until smooth. Adjust sauce consistency if needed and serve garnished with fresh basil.

Notes

Searing the chicken adds depth of flavor. For a richer sauce, swirl in cream cheese with cottage cheese.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 300-360 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 570mg
  • Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 46g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg

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Pro Chef & Blogger

Hi, I’m Lydia, the passionate culinary creator behind Ninja Machine Recipes! I firmly believe that amazing food doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Here at Ninja Machine Recipes, I share my favorite recipes that bring loved ones together around the dinner table – from quick weeknight solutions to special celebration treats.

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