Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches Recipe

Cook Time: 130 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe is crafted for its original yield of 8 servings. Quantities adjust automatically, but cooking times remain the same. Note: scaling may slightly alter results.

• 1 1/2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 (8 ounce) block cream cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella-cream cheese blend
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1 pound bacon
• 8 toasted brioche buns (or more as needed)

Directions

1. In a 6- to 8-quart slow cooker, combine chicken breasts, chicken broth, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, sun-dried tomatoes, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
2. Cook on Low for 4 hours or on High for 2 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
3. Carefully shred the chicken using two forks or a hand mixer. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
4. Stir in cream cheese, mozzarella blend, Parmesan, and fresh basil. Keep the mixture warm until the cheese melts and the filling is creamy.
5. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until evenly browned, about 10 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve the creamy chicken on toasted brioche buns and top generously with crispy bacon.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 746
• Total Fat: 41g (53%)
• Saturated Fat: 18g (88%)
• Cholesterol: 188mg (63%)
• Sodium: 1951mg (85%)
• Total Carbohydrates: 33g (12%)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (6%)
• Total Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 58g (117%)
• Vitamin C: 3mg (3%)
• Calcium: 263mg (20%)
• Iron: 4mg (21%)
• Potassium: 762mg (16%)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Individual values may vary depending on calorie needs. Nutrient info may not be available for all ingredients.

The Story Behind Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches

The "Marry Me Chicken" recipe first gained popularity in the early 2010s, primarily in American home kitchens and food blogs. The dish earned its whimsical name because of its rich, creamy sauce, full of flavor, which reportedly could inspire a marriage proposal. Originally created as a dinner entre, its transformation into a sandwich form is a more recent adaptation, designed for casual dining and comfort food enthusiasts. The slow cooker method allows the chicken to absorb all the spices, cheeses, and sun-dried tomatoes, resulting in a tender, juicy filling perfect for sandwiches.

Regional Variations

This dish is distinctly American but has been embraced with regional twists. In the southern United States, its common to add smoked paprika or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicier profile. In the Midwest, extra cheese or crispy bacon layers are popular additions, emphasizing indulgence. Some West Coast variations incorporate avocado or pickled vegetables for a fresher, lighter contrast to the creamy sauce. Despite these differences, the base of slow-cooked chicken with a cheesy, sun-dried tomato sauce remains consistent nationwide.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Unlike standard chicken sandwiches or shredded chicken subs, the Marry Me Chicken Sandwich is defined by its creamy, tangy sauce and blend of cheeses, including cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Traditional shredded chicken sandwiches often rely on barbecue or mayonnaise-based sauces, whereas this recipe focuses on a rich, aromatic combination of sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and garlic. The slow cooker preparation ensures a depth of flavor and tenderness that is difficult to achieve with quick-cooking methods, setting it apart from typical deli-style chicken sandwiches.

Typical Serving Occasions

These sandwiches are popular at casual gatherings, weekend lunches, and family dinners. They are often served at potlucks or backyard parties, where ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing flavor are key. The sandwiches also appear in cafes and bistros specializing in comfort foods, sometimes accompanied by fries, coleslaw, or a simple salad. Because of their hearty nature, they are particularly favored during cooler months, offering a satisfying and warming meal option.

Interesting Facts

• The original "Marry Me Chicken" was intended as a quick stovetop recipe, but the slow cooker adaptation emerged as a convenient way to serve larger groups.
• Sun-dried tomatoes, a central ingredient, add natural sweetness and umami, balancing the richness of the cheese and cream.
• Brioche buns are the preferred choice because their slight sweetness complements the savory chicken and creamy sauce.
• The dish has inspired various offshoots, including pasta, casseroles, and sliders, each keeping the signature creamy, cheesy flavor intact.
• Despite its indulgent appearance, the recipe can be adjusted for dietary preferences, such as using turkey bacon or low-fat cheese, without compromising the core taste.

FAQ about Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches Recipe