Name: Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 3 h 30 min
Total time: 4 h
Yield: 6-8 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup chicken broth; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened, cubed; ½ cup heavy cream; ½ cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped; 6-8 sturdy sandwich buns; Optional sandwich toppings: provolone cheese slices, fresh spinach, sliced red onion, pickles, extra Parmesan

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches are more than just a meal; they are an experience, a culinary testament to comfort and irresistible flavor. Have you ever encountered a dish so profoundly satisfying that it earns a legendary status, whispered about in hushed, reverent tones? That’s precisely the enchanting tale behind “Marry Me Chicken,” a dish rumored to be so utterly delicious it could inspire a marriage proposal. While its exact origins are shrouded in delightful mystery, the consensus is clear: its creamy, savory sauce, rich with sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, and herbs, is simply divine. Now, imagine all that irresistible allure, made effortlessly tender and spoonable, ready to be piled high onto a soft, toasted bun. This particular adaptation elevates the classic to a new level of convenience and sandwich perfection.

I am absolutely thrilled to present this simplified, slow-cooker version because it retains every ounce of that beloved taste while significantly reducing prep time. People adore this dish not only for its melt-in-your-mouth chicken texture and its deeply flavorful, velvety sauce but also for the sheer convenience the crockpot offers. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave something extraordinary without the fuss. Prepare to discover why these Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches are poised to become a cherished staple in your home, bringing smiles and perhaps even a few declarations of love to your dinner table.

Ingredients:

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (I often use a mix for best texture!)
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, but highly recommended for searing)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference, I love a little kick!)
½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
1 cup chicken broth, low sodium
8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and thinly sliced (don’t discard that flavorful oil if you’re searing!)
4 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic really makes a difference here!)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped, plus extra for garnish
6-8 sturdy sandwich buns (brioche, kaiser rolls, or even ciabatta work wonderfully)
Optional sandwich toppings: provolone cheese slices, fresh spinach, sliced red onion, pickles, extra Parmesan.

Equipment You’ll Need:

To embark on this delicious journey to create Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches, having the right tools on hand will make your cooking experience a breeze. I always find that a little preparation makes everything run smoother in the kitchen!

6-quart or larger slow cooker (Crockpot)
Large skillet (if you choose to sear the chicken)
Measuring cups and spoons
Sharp knife and cutting board
Whisk or fork for mixing sauce ingredients
Tongs for handling chicken
Two forks or a hand mixer for shredding chicken
Small mixing bowl
Spatula or spoon for serving
Baking sheet (if you’re toasting buns or melting cheese)

Preparing the “Crockpot Marry Me Chicken” Base:

This is where the magic begins for our Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches. The slow cooker does most of the heavy lifting, infusing every bite of chicken with rich, creamy, and herbaceous flavor. Trust me, your kitchen is about to smell incredible!

Prepare the Chicken: First things first, grab your boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. I always recommend patting them thoroughly dry with paper towels. This little step helps seasonings adhere better and, if you’re searing, it promotes a nicer crust.
Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Sprinkle this generous seasoning blend evenly over all sides of your dried chicken pieces. Don’t be shy; we want every piece to be bursting with flavor!
Optional Searing Step (Highly Recommended!): Now, if you’re like me and love to deepen the flavor profile, take a large skillet and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Sear them for 2-3 minutes per side, just until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. This step, while optional, truly locks in moisture and adds a complex layer of flavor that you wouldn’t get from just slow cooking. It’s a game-changer for these Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches! Once seared, carefully transfer the chicken to the bottom of your 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker.
Skip Searing Option: If you’re short on time or prefer a simpler approach, simply place the seasoned, un-seared chicken directly into your slow cooker. It will still be delicious, just with a slightly different depth of flavor.
Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the chicken broth, softened cream cheese (make sure it’s soft, or it will be lumpy!), and heavy cream. Whisk these ingredients together until they are as smooth as possible. Don’t worry if there are a few small cream cheese lumps; they’ll melt into oblivion during the slow cooking process.
Add Flavorful Aromatics and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: To the broth and cream mixture, add your thinly sliced sun-dried tomatoes and the minced fresh garlic. Give it another good stir. These ingredients are truly the stars that give “Marry Me Chicken” its distinctive, irresistible taste.
Pour Over Chicken: Carefully pour this creamy, aromatic sauce mixture evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker. Make sure the chicken is mostly submerged or well-coated.
Set and Forget (Almost!): Place the lid on your slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your chicken and the efficiency of your slow cooker. You’ll know it’s perfectly cooked when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is incredibly tender, practically falling apart with just a gentle nudge. This is the foundation for the best Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches you’ll ever make.

Shredding the Chicken:

Once your chicken is cooked to perfection, the next step is to get it ready for those amazing Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches. Shredding is key to making it easy to pile onto buns and soak up all that incredible sauce.

Remove Chicken: Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts or thighs from the slow cooker and place them on a clean cutting board or a shallow dish.
Shred the Chicken: Now for the fun part! You have a couple of options here:
- Two-Fork Method: This is my go-to. Using two forks, pull the chicken apart until it’s beautifully shredded. It should be so tender that it practically disintegrates with minimal effort.
- Hand Mixer Method: For a super quick and easy shred, you can place the chicken back into the slow cooker (after removing any large bones if you used thighs) and use a hand mixer on low speed to shred it directly in the sauce. Be careful not to over-shred it, and make sure the slow cooker is unplugged or on a “warm” setting if doing this directly in the pot. I usually prefer to do this outside the pot to avoid splashing.
You want nice, manageable strands of chicken that will meld perfectly with the sauce.
Return Chicken to Sauce: Once shredded, return all the chicken back into the slow cooker with the creamy sauce. Give it a good stir to ensure every piece of shredded chicken is thoroughly coated in that luscious “Marry Me” sauce.
Stir in Parmesan and Basil: Stir in the ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and ¼ cup of fresh chopped basil. The residual heat will melt the Parmesan, making the sauce even more velvety and cheesy. The fresh basil brightens everything up beautifully. Taste and adjust seasonings – you might want a little more salt or pepper here. This is your glorious “Crockpot Marry Me Chicken” ready for sandwich duty!

Assembling Your “Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches”:

Now for the grand finale! Bringing together all those incredible flavors into the ultimate Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwich. This is where you can truly customize your creation!

Prepare Your Buns: I always recommend toasting your sandwich buns. It prevents them from getting soggy and adds a lovely textural contrast. You can do this by:
- Skillet Toasting: Briefly toast the cut sides of the buns in a dry skillet over medium heat until lightly golden.
- Oven/Broiler: Place the buns cut-side up on a baking sheet and toast under the broiler for 1-2 minutes (watch carefully, they can burn fast!) or in a toaster oven.
A toasted bun provides a sturdy foundation for our saucy chicken!
Add Optional Cheese (Melted): If you’re using provolone or mozzarella slices, place a slice or two on the bottom half of each toasted bun. You can pop these back into the oven or under the broiler for about 30 seconds to a minute to get them melty and gooey. This extra step really elevates the sandwich experience and helps secure the chicken.
Pile on the “Crockpot Marry Me Chicken”: Generously scoop the warm, shredded Crockpot Marry Me Chicken onto the bottom half of your prepared buns. Don’t be shy – this is the star of the show!
Layer with Toppings: This is where you make these sandwiches truly your own. Add any additional toppings you desire. My favorites include:
- Fresh spinach for a touch of freshness.
- Thinly sliced red onion for a zesty bite.
- Crisp dill pickles to cut through the richness.
- A sprinkle of extra fresh basil or Parmesan cheese right on top of the chicken.
Each addition brings a new layer of flavor and texture to your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches.
Top it Off: Place the top half of the bun over your loaded chicken, gently press down, and serve immediately. Prepare for rave reviews – these sandwiches are truly something special!

Tips for the Perfect “Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches”:

Achieving absolute perfection with your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches isn’t hard, but a few insider tips can make a world of difference. I’ve learned these through trial and error, and they consistently yield amazing results!

Don’t Skimp on Searing: If you have the time, please don’t skip the searing step. That golden crust isn’t just for looks; it creates a Maillard reaction that brings out deep, savory notes in the chicken, adding incredible complexity to the final dish. It’s a foundational step for truly remarkable Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches.
Chicken Choice Matters: While chicken breasts work perfectly fine, I find that a mix of boneless, skinless chicken breasts and thighs can offer the best of both worlds. Thighs tend to stay even more moist and add a richer flavor thanks to their slightly higher fat content.
Cream Cheese Temperature: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before adding it to the sauce. Cold cream cheese will be very difficult to whisk smoothly into the broth and cream, potentially leaving you with stubborn lumps. A smooth sauce is key for elegant Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches.
Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your sauce before and after adding the shredded chicken, and definitely before serving. Salt, pepper, and even a little extra red pepper flakes might be needed to perfectly balance the flavors. Remember that slow cooking can sometimes mellow seasonings.
Quality Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Opt for oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes. They are much more flavorful and tender than the dry-packed kind. Plus, if you don’t use their oil for searing, you can reserve it for another dish, like a vinaigrette!
Fresh Herbs are Best: While dried basil can work in a pinch, fresh basil stirred in at the end and as a garnish makes a huge difference. Its vibrant, aromatic quality really brightens the rich, creamy sauce.
Bun Selection: Choose sturdy buns that can hold up to a saucy filling. Brioche buns are fantastic for their slight sweetness and soft texture, but a good quality kaiser roll or ciabatta can also provide excellent structure for your loaded Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches.
Prevent Soggy Buns: Always toast your buns! This creates a barrier that helps prevent them from becoming soggy too quickly, ensuring a pleasant eating experience. Melting a slice of provolone on the bottom bun also creates a nice barrier.

Storage and Reheating:

One of the best things about making Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches is that the chicken base is fantastic for meal prep! You can enjoy leftovers for days, and the flavors often deepen even further.

Storing the Chicken: The cooked “Crockpot Marry Me Chicken” can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. I always separate it from the buns and toppings to maintain freshness.
Freezing: If you’ve made a large batch, the cooked chicken (without the buns or fresh toppings) freezes beautifully. Transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. It will keep well for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating:
- Microwave: For individual portions, heat in a microwave-safe bowl until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
- Stovetop: For larger amounts, gently reheat the chicken in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until simmering and hot. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to loosen it up.
Always reheat the chicken until it’s steaming hot throughout to ensure food safety. Once reheated, you can assemble fresh Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches just like the first time!

Variations to Try:

While the classic Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches are undeniably delicious, there’s always room to play and customize! Here are a few ideas to switch things up and make this recipe truly your own:

Spicy Kick: If you love heat, increase the red pepper flakes significantly, or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning blend. You could even drizzle a little hot sauce over the chicken before serving your fiery Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches.
Smoky Flavor: A pinch of smoked paprika added with the other seasonings can introduce a lovely smoky depth that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
Mushroom Lover’s Dream: Sauté sliced mushrooms (cremini or button) and add them to the slow cooker along with the sun-dried tomatoes for an earthy addition.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses! Provolone is excellent for melting on the bun, but you could also stir in some shredded mozzarella or even a sharper aged cheddar into the chicken for a different cheesy profile.
Herb Variations: While basil is traditional, try adding a tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley or even a hint of fresh oregano to the sauce for a slightly different aromatic twist.
Veggie Boost: For an added nutrient boost, consider stirring in a handful of fresh spinach or finely chopped kale into the shredded chicken at the very end. The residual heat will wilt them perfectly.
Low-Carb Option: Skip the buns entirely! Serve the Crockpot Marry Me Chicken over a bed of cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or simply alongside a fresh green salad for a delicious low-carb meal.
Pasta Perfection: This “Marry Me Chicken” isn’t just for sandwiches! It makes an incredible sauce for pasta. Just toss the shredded chicken and sauce with your favorite cooked pasta (fettuccine or penne are great choices) for a hearty dinner.
Artichoke Hearts: Adding a handful of drained, chopped canned or jarred artichoke hearts to the slow cooker along with the sun-dried tomatoes can introduce a delightful tang and texture.

No matter how you choose to prepare or serve your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches, I guarantee they’ll be a hit. Enjoy creating this comforting, incredibly flavorful dish!

Conclusion:

Well, my friends, we’ve reached the end of our culinary journey, and I genuinely hope you’re feeling inspired and, let’s be honest, probably a little hungry! If there’s one recipe I could implore you to try this week, it’s this one. Truly, I believe these aren’t just any sandwiches; they are an experience, a delightful revelation that will quickly become a cherished staple in your home. The undeniable beauty of this dish lies in its exquisite balance – the chicken itself is incredibly tender, practically melting in your mouth, infused with an unbelievably rich, creamy, and profoundly savory sauce that sings with flavor. Each and every bite is a harmonious blend of comforting warmth and gourmet taste, making it an absolute showstopper without requiring hours of strenuous effort in the kitchen.

Why This Recipe is a True Game-Changer:

I’ve made countless dishes in my time, exploring a vast array of flavors and cooking methods, but the sheer enthusiasm and overwhelmingly positive response I consistently get from these particular sandwiches is truly something special. People don’t just like them; they absolutely adore them, often asking for the recipe on the spot! It’s the kind of meal that elicits genuine “oohs” and “aahs” around any dinner table, leaving everyone thoroughly satisfied and eager for more. What truly makes this a must-try, beyond its incredible, mouth-watering flavor, is the sheer ease of preparation. We’re talking about a Crockpot recipe here, which inherently means minimal hands-on time for a truly maximum flavor payoff. You simply set it up, let the slow cooker work its magic for a few hours, and return to a kitchen filled with the most tantalizing aroma imaginable, a delicious promise of the delightful meal to come. It’s absolutely perfect for those bustling weeknights when time feels like a precious luxury, yet you still crave a homemade meal that feels wonderfully special and indulgent. But please, don’t let its deceptive simplicity fool you; the impressive depth of flavor achieved through this patient slow-cooking process is simply unparalleled, ensuring every single shred of chicken is thoroughly saturated with that utterly irresistible creamy sauce.

Now, while the quintessential way to savor this masterpiece is undeniably nestled between two halves of a soft, perfectly toasted bun – I’m personally partial to a good brioche or a sturdy ciabatta roll myself, for that ideal texture contrast – the possibilities for serving are wonderfully vast and exciting. Think about adding some delightful toppings to truly elevate your sandwich experience to new heights. A few crisp dill pickle slices can introduce a lovely tang and acidity that beautifully cuts through the richness, while a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives brings a burst of vibrant freshness and visual appeal. For a satisfying bit of crunch, crispy fried onions or a spoonful of creamy, tangy coleslaw can be incredibly satisfying and add another layer of texture. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorites! Imagine a light drizzle of your favorite hot sauce for those who crave a little fiery kick, or perhaps some extra shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese melted right on top for an even more decadent and gooey treat.

But let’s not stop at just sandwiches! This incredibly versatile chicken filling can absolutely transcend its bun-bound destiny, offering a multitude of delicious meal options. For a fantastic low-carb option, simply spoon the savory chicken over a fluffy bed of cauliflower rice or tuck it into crisp lettuce cups for a refreshing and healthy twist. It’s equally brilliant served over creamy mashed potatoes, hearty polenta, or even as a decadent, flavorful topping for a baked potato, transforming a simple side into a main course. If you’re a pasta lover, imagine the pure delight of tossing this luscious chicken with your favorite shape of pasta for an instant, incredibly flavorful weeknight dinner that will undoubtedly disappear in minutes. For those looking to sneak in extra vegetables, consider gently stirring in a handful of fresh spinach or some sautéed mushrooms during the last 30 minutes of cooking. A few sun-dried tomatoes, chopped finely, could also add another intriguing layer of savory depth to the sauce, making it even more complex and delightful for your palate.

Perfect Pairings:

As for side dishes, the culinary world truly is your oyster! A simple, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette makes for a refreshing and much-needed contrast, gracefully cutting through the richness of the chicken beautifully. Alternatively, you could fully lean into the ultimate comfort food vibe with a side of creamy mac and cheese, crispy sweet potato fries, or some perfectly roasted asparagus or green beans that provide a lovely tender-crisp texture. Even a simple side of steamed broccoli or green beans can round out the meal perfectly, adding that essential touch of green and wholesome goodness. The key is to choose sides that harmoniously complement the robust and bold flavors of the chicken without in any way overshadowing them, allowing the main event – this sensational chicken – to truly shine as the star of your meal.

So, my dear readers, what are you waiting for? I wholeheartedly encourage you to block out some precious time this week, gather your straightforward ingredients, and give these incredible Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches a try. I promise you, the divine aroma alone as it gently cooks will have your family excitedly asking what’s for dinner, and their priceless reactions at the very first bite will be a memory you’ll cherish. This recipe is so much more than just food; it’s truly about creating wonderful moments, sharing genuine joy around the table, and savoring truly delicious comfort that nourishes both body and soul. It’s about making extraordinary, restaurant-quality meals accessible to everyone, even on the busiest and most hectic of days, without sacrificing an ounce of flavor or quality.

Once you’ve experienced the pure magic for yourselves, I would absolutely love to hear all about it! Please, don’t keep your culinary triumphs to yourselves. Share your invaluable thoughts, your heartwarming successes, and even your unique, creative twists on the recipe in the comments below. What did you brilliantly decide to serve it with? Did you ingeniously add any special ingredients that transformed it further? Your experiences not only inspire me but also help other fellow home cooks in our vibrant community discover new and exciting ways to enjoy this fantastic, truly unforgettable dish. Let’s build a rich tapestry of shared deliciousness and culinary inspiration together! I cannot wait to read about your adventures and experiences with these truly irresistible sandwiches. Happy cooking, everyone, and enjoy every single delightful bite!