Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. I often prep it in the morning before the girls wake up, then finish it right before dinner. It keeps the flavor fresh and saves time later.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

You can, but I prefer thawed breasts for even cooking. If you start with frozen, increase the cook time and check for doneness with a thermometer. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165 F.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Very much so. My children like the creamy texture and mild flavors. If your kids are sensitive to heat, leave out the pepper flakes until adults finish their plates.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

After shredding the chicken, remove the lid and cook on high for 10 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally. If you need it faster, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir into the sauce. Heat until slightly thickened.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot or a stovetop pot?

Yes. For an Instant Pot, use the sauté function to melt the cream cheese into the broth, then pressure cook the chicken for about 8 to 10 minutes, with a quick release. For stovetop, simmer gently until chicken is cooked and sauce thickens, stirring to prevent sticking.

"Marry Me" Chicken in a Slow Cooker 2026

Description

A comforting slow cooker dish with creamy chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
3 cloves Fresh Garlic, minced
1 tbsp Italian Seasoning
8 oz Cream Cheese, softened
1 cup Chicken Broth
1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes
1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
2 cups Spinach, fresh
1 tsp Pepper Flakes

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Instructions

Plug in your slow cooker and set it to low heat.
Pat the chicken breasts dry and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Place chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker and scatter sun-dried tomatoes on top.
In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese with chicken broth until smooth.
Pour the mixture over the chicken and top with spinach and Parmesan cheese.
Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, checking for tenderness.
Once cooked, shred the chicken in the slow cooker and stir to coat with the sauce.
Sprinkle with additional Parmesan and pepper flakes before serving.

Notes

Use fresh garlic for better flavor and a good quality Parmesan cheese for the best texture. If the sauce is too thin, cook on high for a short time to thicken.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 240 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: Italian