Some recipes feel like a warm hug. Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is one of those dishes that wins hearts from the first bite not just for its rich, creamy flavor, but because it practically makes itself. If you’ve ever wanted a slow cooker meal that feels special enough for a date night yet easy enough for a weeknight, this one hits the sweet spot.
This isn’t just another pasta dish. It’s a slow-simmered blend of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy sauce that clings perfectly to every noodle. The kind of recipe that makes you pause, look at your plate, and say, “Yeah, this one’s a keeper.” Bonus: it’s high in protein, family-friendly, and ideal for meal prep.
You’ll learn exactly how to make this slow cooker classic plus discover smart tips, ingredient swaps, and ways to serve it up that fit your routine. Whether you’re feeding your household or prepping lunches for the week, this recipe works.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
The beauty of this crockpot marry me chicken pasta recipe is how much flavor you get from such a simple ingredient list. Each item plays a role in building that creamy, savory richness you’ll crave again and again. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 8 ounces chickpea pasta (or pasta of your choice)
- 1.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 block (8 oz) reduced-fat cream cheese or neufchatel cheese
- ½ cup half & half
- 3 ounces sun-dried tomatoes, diced
- ⅓ cup grated parmesan
- 5–6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: red pepper flakes for garnish
You can use standard penne or spaghetti if chickpea pasta isn’t your thing. But for a protein boost, the chickpea option holds its own — especially in a slow cooker recipe like this.
Want more pasta inspiration? Try the deeply savory pappardelle bolognese or the zesty salmon pesto pasta when you’re craving something equally rich but a little different.
How to Make Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
This slow cooker marry me chicken pasta recipe doesn’t require much hands-on effort. Most of the magic happens while you go about your day, and the result is a creamy, comforting Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Step-by-step instructions:
- Layer the chicken: Place boneless chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot.
- Mix the base: In a bowl, whisk together chicken broth, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, paprika, oregano, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this over the chicken.
- Cook the chicken: Set your slow cooker on high for 2 to 3 hours, or on low for 4 to 5 hours. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Shred the meat: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and shred it using two forks.
- Creamy transformation: Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Stir in the cream cheese and half & half. Let it melt on low for 20 to 30 minutes until the sauce is silky.
- Boil the pasta: While the sauce finishes, cook your pasta separately according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Combine and serve: Mix the cooked pasta into the crockpot sauce. Stir gently so the sauce coats each bite. Sprinkle with parmesan and red pepper flakes if using.
Want to pair this pasta with something crisp and refreshing? A chilled pasta salad with Italian dressing makes a perfect contrast.
Tips to Nail the Perfect Marry Me Chicken Pasta
This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is naturally forgiving, but there are a few small moves that can take your slow cooker marry me chicken pasta recipe from “really good” to “please make this again soon.”
Let the sauce thicken gradually
After adding the cream cheese and half & half, give it time to melt fully and blend with the sun-dried tomato broth. The sauce will look thin at first. Let it rest on low heat and stir occasionally — it thickens beautifully in about 20 to 30 minutes.
Don’t overcook the pasta
It’s tempting to throw pasta into the crockpot raw, but it doesn’t hold up well. Boil it separately and only stir it in once you’re ready to eat. This keeps the texture spot on — soft, not soggy.
Flavor tweak: add fresh herbs at the end
A few chopped basil or parsley leaves added just before serving will brighten the entire Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta. You could also stir in a pinch of chili flakes for subtle heat if that’s your thing.
For meal prep lovers
Divide into containers right after mixing everything. It keeps well for up to 5 days in the fridge. A quick microwave warm-up or gentle stovetop reheat brings back the creaminess without much fuss.
And if you like tangy twists in your meals, try this dill pickle pasta salad for a refreshing side that contrasts nicely with this dish’s richness.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations for Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Sometimes you open the fridge and realize a few key ingredients are missing. Or maybe you’re cooking for someone with specific dietary needs. The good news? This slow cooker marry me chicken pasta recipe is flexible enough to adapt.
Pasta swaps
- Chickpea pasta boosts protein, but regular pasta like penne or spaghetti works just as well.
- Want to keep things light? Use whole wheat pasta.
- For something fancier, try rigatoni or fusilli to hold more sauce in the grooves.
Dairy tweaks
- No reduced-fat cream cheese? Full-fat or dairy-free versions can be used.
- Half & half can be swapped with coconut cream or unsweetened cashew cream if needed. It changes the flavor slightly, but still tastes great.
Protein options
- Boneless chicken thighs are more forgiving and stay juicy even if slightly overcooked.
- In a pinch, shredded rotisserie chicken can be stirred in during the sauce phase. Just reduce the cook time since it’s already done.
Tomato and herb alternatives
- If sun-dried tomatoes aren’t your thing, use a few chopped cherry tomatoes. Add them during the last hour of cooking so they soften but don’t disappear.
- Basil not in season? A sprinkle of dried Italian seasoning can fill the gap.
These smart swaps make the Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta accessible no matter what’s in your pantry — or who you’re cooking for.
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
This crockpot marry me chicken pasta recipe is all about balance — rich without being too heavy, flavorful without being complicated. It gives you the satisfaction of a creamy pasta dish with the convenience of a slow cooker. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or prepping meals for the week, it delivers comfort and protein in every bite.
Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Some recipes are trendy for a reason. This slow cooker marry me chicken pasta recipe became a viral favorite because it’s indulgent, straightforward, and honestly a little magical. The slow cooker does most of the work, slowly marrying the sun-dried tomato flavors with the chicken and cream. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it dish you’ll come back to again and again.
Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Pasta
This variation of the recipe is perfect for people who like to build flavor in layers. By combining all ingredients in a slow cooker and allowing them to meld slowly, you end up with pasta that’s silky and savory. Add the cooked noodles at the very end, and you’ve got a Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta that feels like a reward after a long day.
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Spaghetti
Spaghetti isn’t the first pasta people think of for a creamy chicken dish, but it works surprisingly well here. Crockpot marry me chicken spaghetti is a softer, cozier version of the classic — perfect for kids or anyone who loves traditional comfort food. The long noodles soak up every drop of sauce, and you can twirl them around your fork for that classic pasta experience.
Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Pasta BBC Good Food
While BBC Good Food may offer a variety of international slow cooker recipes, this version of marry me chicken pasta focuses on the kind of cozy, familiar flavors that never go out of style. Creamy, tangy, and loaded with sun-dried tomato depth, it’s a spin you’ll want to bookmark. Even if you’ve tried others, this version might just become your new go-to.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Let the Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta cool completely, then store in airtight containers or freezer bags. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce.
What pasta shapes work best?
Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are excellent because they hold onto the sauce well. Chickpea pasta adds protein, but any pasta you enjoy will do. Avoid very thin noodles, which can get too soft.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely. Cook everything as directed, then store in the fridge. If you’re planning to serve later, keep the pasta separate and combine just before reheating to maintain texture.
What if I only have cooked chicken?
No problem. Skip the slow cooking phase. Instead, warm the broth, sun-dried tomatoes, and spices in a saucepan, then add the shredded chicken and finish the sauce as usual. It comes together fast and still tastes great.
How spicy is this recipe?
The Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is flavorful but mild. If you want to kick it up, sprinkle red pepper flakes at the end. If you’re cooking for kids or prefer it mild, you can skip the spice altogether.
Nutrition Information for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta isn’t just about flavor — it’s also a strong choice if you’re trying to keep meals balanced. Each serving of this crockpot marry me chicken pasta delivers solid protein, satisfying carbs, and moderate fat, making it ideal for family dinners or weekly meal prep.
Per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 447 kcal
- Protein: 40 grams
- Carbohydrates: 36 grams
- Fat: 17 grams
- Fiber: 5 grams
- Sugar: 5 grams
- Sodium: 580 mg (will vary based on broth and cheese used)
Thanks to the chickpea pasta and lean chicken breast, you’re getting a high-protein meal without excess heaviness. You can reduce sodium further by using unsalted broth and limiting added parmesan.
This breakdown is approximate and can change depending on your ingredient brands or pasta choice.
Final Thoughts: Why This Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Pasta Just Works
Some meals fade from memory. This one doesn’t. Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta earns its spot in the dinner rotation not because it’s trendy, but because it’s consistently satisfying, easy to pull off, and deeply comforting. It’s the kind of recipe that works whether you’re trying to impress someone or just want to get dinner on the table with minimal stress.
The creamy sauce, the tender chicken, the just-right bite of pasta — it all comes together like a Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta that took far more effort than it actually did. And the best part? You can tweak it to fit your preferences, your pantry, or your weeknight mood.
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it went for you. Share your spin, leave a note, or send it to someone who could use a cozy meal idea this week.
Love simple, delicious meals like our Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipes? Don’t miss out!
Follow us on Facebook for daily comfort food inspiration, quick dinner ideas, and crave-worthy recipes: Flavour Recipe Facebook
Join us on Pinterest for mouthwatering food boards, smart meal prep tips, and family-favorite dishes: Flavour Recipe Pinterest
Let’s create something delicious together!
PrintCrockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta: Creamy, High-Protein Comfort in a Bowl
This irresistibly creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is the ultimate comfort food. Ready in 30 minutes with juicy chicken and a velvety sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 boneless chicken breasts
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan
- 8 oz penne or fettuccine
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- 2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- 3. In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Sear chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and slice.
- 4. In the same skillet, add remaining butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
- 5. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- 6. Stir in parmesan cheese and cook until melted and thickened.
- 7. Return chicken to skillet and add cooked pasta. Toss to coat.
- 8. Garnish with parsley and extra parmesan. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use fresh parmesan for best results.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for variation.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
Nutrition Disclaimer: The nutrition information provided in the Recipe card is an estimate only.For the most accurate results, please calculate the values yourself using your preferred nutrition calculator.
