Crockpot Marry Me Sandwiches

These crockpot marry me chicken sandwiches were born out of weeknight chaos when pasta just felt too fussy for multitasking kids and work calls happening around the dinner table. I wanted the creamy richness of my favorite chicken dish but in a form we could actually eat without dirtying forks. After some trial and error with cheese ratios and tomato placement I landed on this sandwich that hits every comforting note without tying you to the kitchen.

I first served these when my oldest had back to back tutoring sessions and we needed something fast and filling. She ate hers with one hand while scrolling her math app and still said it was the best thing I had made in weeks.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast: Tender and holds moisture during slow cooking
• Salt pepper dried oregano and thyme: Essential seasoning to build depth of flavor
• Onion powder and garlic powder: Adds warm savory notes that blend into the sauce
• Red pepper flakes: Offers gentle heat without overpowering the other ingredients
• Minced garlic: Fresh garlic wakes up the sauce and ties in with the sun dried tomatoes
• Sun dried tomatoes: Intensely savory and chewy they create the signature marry me base
• Chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and builds the cooking foundation
• Cream cheese: Melts into a luscious sauce that coats every bite
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Helps bind everything together and adds stringy goodness
• Bacon: Adds salty crunch and smoky contrast to the creamy filling
• Brioche buns: Slight sweetness and richness that pairs beautifully with the chicken mixture
• Butter or mayo: For toasting the buns to golden brown perfection

Step by Step Instructions

Prepare the crockpot:

Spray the inside of your crockpot generously with cooking spray so nothing sticks during the long cooking time

Season the chicken:

Place chicken breasts in a single layer and coat both sides evenly with salt pepper oregano thyme onion powder garlic powder and red pepper flakes

Add flavor ingredients:

Scatter minced garlic and chopped sun dried tomatoes over the chicken then pour in the chicken broth gently stir to ensure tomatoes sink into the liquid

Slow cook the base:

Cover and cook on low for four to six hours depending on your chicken thickness The chicken should shred easily with a fork and remain juicy

Shred and mix:

Use two forks to shred the cooked chicken directly in the crockpot Mix thoroughly so the meat soaks up all the cooking liquid

Add cheeses:

Add the block of cream cheese and shredded mozzarella and stir a few times The residual heat will begin melting the cheese

Finish the sauce:

Let everything cook another fifteen to twenty minutes on low Stir occasionally until it becomes smooth creamy and cohesive

Make the bacon:

In a separate skillet cook bacon strips until crispy and golden then drain on paper towels Set aside until sandwich assembly

Toast the buns:

Split brioche buns and spread butter or mayo on the cut sides Toast in a skillet or broiler until golden brown and crispy

Assemble the sandwiches:

Spoon a generous portion of the creamy chicken onto each bottom bun add crispy bacon and finish with the top bun Serve while hot and melty

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I have a soft spot for sun dried tomatoes in any form but in this dish they are the quiet superstar I remember the first time I made it I was worried they would overpower but instead they mellow into this perfect base that makes everything else shine

Storage Tips

Keep the chicken mixture and bacon stored separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days When reheating microwave in short bursts or warm in a covered pan over low heat Toast buns fresh when serving to keep texture crisp

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have brioche buns sturdy rolls like ciabatta or kaiser work well Chicken thighs can be used in place of breasts and may even result in more tender meat For dairy free variations use plant based cream cheese and omit mozzarella

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a simple arugula salad roasted green beans or garlic sweet potato wedges For casual parties offer as part of a sandwich bar with extra toppings like pickled onions or spicy aioli

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Cultural Context

Marry me chicken got its name from the idea that its flavor is so good it could earn you a marriage proposal The slow cooker adaptation turns this viral favorite into an easy weeknight dinner that fits into real life while keeping that wow factor

Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great in this recipe and offer extra tenderness. Follow the same cook time and shredding method.

→ How do I stop the sun-dried tomatoes from burning?

Make sure to submerge them in the chicken broth before cooking. Stir them into the liquid to prevent contact with the crockpot’s hot surface.

→ What’s the best bun to use?

Brioche buns are ideal for their buttery texture, but you can also use sturdy rolls like ciabatta, kaiser, or sourdough to hold the creamy filling.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. The chicken mixture can be refrigerated for up to four days. Reheat and assemble sandwiches just before serving for best results.

→ What sides go well with these sandwiches?

Serve them with roasted vegetables, a crisp green salad, or potato wedges to balance out the richness of the creamy chicken and bacon.