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Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken with Tomato Cream Sauce and Spinach Recipe

Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken with Tomato Cream Sauce and Spinach Recipe

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Jump to Recipe· 4.6 from 85 reviews

If you’re craving a meal that’s cozy, creamy, and practically effortless, you’ve got to try my Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken with Tomato Cream Sauce and Spinach Recipe. This dish is seriously one of my all-time favorites because it combines tender, juicy chicken with a dreamy tomato cream sauce that your whole family will rave about. Whether you’re at home after a long day or whipping up dinner for guests, this recipe feels like a special occasion but cooks itself in the slow cooker. Trust me, once you make this, it might just become your go-to dinner staple!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Effortless Cooking: Toss ingredients in the slow cooker and let it work its magic, freeing you up for other things.
  • Rich & Creamy Sauce: The tomato cream sauce is luscious without being heavy, perfect for comfort food cravings.
  • Fresh & Flavorful Additions: Spinach and sun-dried tomatoes bring vibrant color and texture to the dish.
  • Family Favorite: This recipe always gets compliments and second helpings at my dinner table.
The image shows a white bowl with three main layers: the bottom layer is smooth, creamy mashed potatoes in a pale yellow color; on top, sliced cooked chicken with a light golden-brown color is arranged in a row. The chicken is covered with a thick, rich red-orange sauce with visible spinach leaves and pieces of sun-dried tomatoes mixed in. The dish is sprinkled with grated cheese and small green herbs for decoration. A black spoon is placed on the left side, resting partly on the mashed potatoes and sauce. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface, with a glass of water, a small white bowl of grated cheese, and a small white bowl of sun-dried tomatoes around it. A striped cloth is partly visible on the right side of the image. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7 this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken with Tomato Cream Sauce and Spinach Recipe are simple but work beautifully together to create that rich and comforting flavor. When possible, I recommend grabbing quality tomato sauce and fresh baby spinach for the best taste.

  • Tomato Sauce: Provides the base of the sauce; I like to use a good-quality canned sauce for depth and convenience.
  • Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds wonderful aroma and savory flavor.
  • Kosher Salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors to life.
  • Dried Thyme: Gives a subtle earthy note that complements the tomato well.
  • Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Adds mild heat and freshness.
  • Heavy Cream: Makes the sauce silky and rich; don’t substitute if you want that perfect creamy texture.
  • Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce just right; whisked with cream to avoid lumps.
  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (or Thighs): Thighs give a slightly juicier result, but breasts work great too.
  • Sun Dried Tomatoes in Oil: Adds tangy sweetness and a chewy bite; lightly drained before chopping for balance.
  • Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: Brings savory umami and creaminess.
  • Sugar: Balances acidity from the tomato sauce, but just a touch.
  • Baby Spinach: Added at the end for freshness and a pop of green color.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love giving this Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken with Tomato Cream Sauce and Spinach Recipe my own little twists depending on the season or what’s in the fridge. Don’t hesitate to make it your own!

  • Using Chicken Thighs: I often swap breasts for thighs because they stay more tender and juicy after slow cooking—my family goes crazy for it this way.
  • Adding Red Pepper Flakes: For a hint of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes before cooking; it adds such a lovely kick I discovered over time.
  • Herb Boost: Try adding fresh basil or oregano at the end for extra herbal brightness, especially in summer months.
  • Dairy-Free Version: Swap heavy cream for coconut cream and omit Parmesan to make this recipe suitable for dairy-free diets; it still turns out deliciously rich.

How to Make Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken with Tomato Cream Sauce and Spinach Recipe

Step 1: Whisk Together the Creamy Tomato Sauce

Start by adding the tomato sauce, minced garlic, kosher salt, dried thyme, and freshly ground black pepper into your slow cooker. Stir everything to blend the flavors. In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and cornstarch until completely smooth—this prevents lumps later. Pour this creamy mixture into the slow cooker and whisk gently to combine. I always make sure the cornstarch is well incorporated before adding it to avoid any clumps in the sauce. This base sets the stage for the wonderful, creamy tomato sauce we’re after.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Let It Slow Cook

Place your chicken breasts or thighs into the slow cooker, turning them gently to coat with the sauce. Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. When I first tried this recipe, I was worried about drying out the chicken, but the slow cooker’s gentle heat combined with the sauce keeps the meat tender and juicy every time. Don’t rush this step—you want the flavors to develop and blend beautifully.

Step 3: Finish the Sauce with Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Cheese, and Spinach

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it to a cutting board, allowing it to rest while you finish the sauce. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes (lightly drained so the sauce isn’t too oily), freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of sugar to balance acidity. Then fold in the baby spinach, stirring until just wilted. This step adds vibrant colors and fresh flavors that make the whole dish pop. At this point, your kitchen probably smells amazing — I always catch myself sneaking bites right here!

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the chicken across the grain for the best texture. You can either add the sliced chicken back into the sauce to heat through or serve it sliced with spoonfuls of the creamy tomato sauce over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. I love serving this with creamy mashed potatoes or garlic butter noodles for a truly comforting meal. My family always asks for seconds, so be ready!

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Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken with Tomato Cream Sauce and Spinach Recipe

  • Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the time; 3 to 4 hours on low is perfect to keep chicken juicy and tender without drying it out.
  • Cornstarch Trick: Always whisk cornstarch into the cream before adding to avoid lumps in your sauce—it makes such a difference in smoothness.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Don’t skip these—they add a sweet tang that elevates the sauce beyond just tomato and cream.
  • Spinach Timing: Add spinach at the very end to keep it vibrant and prevent it from turning mushy.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken with Tomato Cream Sauce and Spinach Recipe

A round white bowl holds a layered dish starting with a smooth, creamy light yellow mashed base. On top, sliced cooked meat with a light brown crust is arranged across the center. The meat is covered with a rich, reddish-brown sauce mixed with green leafy bits and small sun-dried red pieces. The dish is sprinkled with fine white grated cheese and small green herb leaves. A black spoon rests in the bowl, partially dipped in the layers. Nearby, a small white bowl filled with deep red sun-dried pieces soaked in liquid and another containing pale grated cheese sit on a white marbled surface scattered with fresh green herb leaves. A clear glass of water and a striped white and blue cloth are also visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I love sprinkling a little extra freshly grated Parmesan and some chopped fresh basil or parsley on top just before serving. It adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a touch of elegance. A few cracked black pepper flakes also bring great aroma and a subtle bite that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs wonderfully with buttery mashed potatoes, garlic butter pasta, or even a simple rice pilaf. If I’m aiming for something lighter, I’ll serve it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted veggies like asparagus or green beans to add some crunch and color.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like plating the sliced chicken over polenta or creamy risotto, topped with extra sun-dried tomatoes and a drizzle of basil oil. A lemon wedge on the side adds a bright contrast that guests really appreciate. It always feels like a restaurant-worthy dish that anyone can make at home!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce thickens in the fridge, so before reheating, I usually add a splash of water or broth to loosen it back up. My family loves the leftovers almost as much as the fresh meal!

Freezing

This Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken with Tomato Cream Sauce and Spinach Recipe freezes well if you leave out the spinach when freezing (fresh greens don’t freeze nicely). Freeze the chicken and sauce in portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and add fresh spinach when reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, adding a little broth or cream to refresh the sauce’s texture. Add fresh spinach at the end to keep it vibrant. This method keeps the chicken juicy and the sauce creamy without separations.

FAQs

  1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts in this recipe?

    Absolutely! Chicken thighs tend to stay juicier and more tender in the slow cooker, so they’re a great choice if you prefer darker meat. Just use the same cooking time and check for doneness.

  2. Can I prepare this recipe in advance and refrigerate before cooking?

    Yes, you can assemble all ingredients in the slow cooker insert, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When ready, just start the slow cooker and add extra 30 minutes to the cooking time as needed.

  3. Is there a dairy-free alternative to the cream and Parmesan?

    You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream. For the Parmesan, nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor without dairy. The texture will be slightly different but still tasty.

  4. What can I serve with this Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken recipe?

    It’s amazing over mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or even creamy polenta. Fresh veggies like roasted green beans or a crisp salad complement the richness of the sauce very well.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken with Tomato Cream Sauce and Spinach Recipe has become one of my favorite ways to enjoy comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights but special enough to impress guests or enjoy for a cozy weekend dinner. I love how the flavors develop over slow cooking and how easy it is to customize with your favorite herbs or sides. Give it a try—you’ll love how effortless and delicious slow cooker meals can be!

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Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken with Tomato Cream Sauce and Spinach Recipe

Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken with Tomato Cream Sauce and Spinach Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.6 from 85 reviews
  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 5 min
  • Cook Time: 180 min
  • Total Time: 185 min
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Gluten Free
Print Recipe

Description

Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, comforting dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in a luscious Tuscan-inspired tomato cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and fresh spinach. Perfect for an effortless weeknight dinner that feels special yet requires minimal effort.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Sauce Ingredients

  • 1 15–ounce can of tomato sauce
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/3 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar

Main Ingredients

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs)
  • 1/3 cup sun dried tomatoes in oil, lightly drained before chopping
  • 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups baby spinach

Instructions

  1. Make the Sauce: Add the tomato sauce, minced garlic, kosher salt, dried thyme, and freshly ground black pepper to a 4- or 6-quart slow cooker. Stir the ingredients to combine evenly. In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and cornstarch until the mixture becomes smooth. Pour this cream mixture into the slow cooker and whisk everything together until the sauce is uniform.
  2. Add the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts into the slow cooker and turn them in the sauce to coat evenly on all sides. Cover the slow cooker and cook the chicken on low heat for 3 to 4 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is cooked through.
  3. Finish the Sauce: Once the chicken is done cooking, remove it to a cutting board to rest. Stir the sun-dried tomatoes, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and sugar into the sauce remaining in the slow cooker until smooth and well combined. Add the baby spinach and stir gently until the spinach wilts just slightly from the heat of the sauce.
  4. Serve: Slice the rested chicken across the grain if desired. Return the chicken to the sauce in the slow cooker to warm through briefly, or serve it sliced with spoonfuls of the creamy tomato sauce over your choice of rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.

Notes

  • This recipe offers a creamy, cozy dish ideal for weeknight dinners, delivering tender chicken in a velvety tomato cream sauce with minimal preparation effort.
  • Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, more flavorful option if preferred.
  • The sauce can be served over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes, making it versatile for different side pairings.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1/6 of recipe)
  • Calories: 387 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 716 mg
  • Fat: 11 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 36 g
  • Cholesterol: 115 mg

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