Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Sandwiches are the kind of dinner you crave on busy weekdays when you want something comforting but also a little fancy I love how every bite mixes creamy chicken sun dried tomato sweetness and crispy bacon all on a perfectly toasted brioche bun

I first made these on a rainy Monday when we all needed a pick me up and they disappeared before I even sat down for dinner Now they are my most requested make ahead meal

Ingredients

• Chicken breast: Boneless is best so it shreds easily after slow cooking Look for pink fresh fillets with no bruising
• Salt pepper oregano and thyme: Classic blend that seasons the chicken perfectly Use fresh dried herbs for the best flavor
• Onion powder and garlic powder: Amp up the savory notes Be sure they are fresh and clump free for max impact
• Red pepper flakes: Just enough for a subtle kick but not spicy at all
• Minced garlic: Adds real garlic flavor Pick plump fragrant cloves or fresh jarred minced garlic
• Sun dried tomatoes: Brings sweetness and tang Opt for the oil packed kind for best moisture and flavor
• Chicken broth: Keeps the chicken juicy and carries all the seasonings Choose low sodium if you want to control salt
• Bacon: Thick cut bacon is ideal for a crisp hearty topping Cook until deep golden
• Cream cheese: Makes the chicken mixture creamy and rich Use a brick rather than a spread for proper texture
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melty and mild Shred from a block for best melt and stretch
• Brioche buns: Soft slightly sweet and sturdy enough for the filling Toast lightly with mayo or butter for golden edges

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Chicken:

Lay chicken breasts flat in a greased crockpot Gather all herbs and seasonings Sprinkle salt pepper oregano thyme onion powder garlic powder and red pepper flakes evenly over the chicken

Layer in Flavor:

Add minced garlic and chopped sun dried tomatoes evenly across the chicken Pour chicken broth into the crockpot making sure the tomatoes settle into the liquid so they do not scorch during cooking

Slow Cook the Base:

Cover and cook the mixture on low for four to six hours Let the flavors meld and chicken become tender enough to shred You should be able to easily pull it apart with two forks

Creamy Cheese Finish:

Shred chicken directly in the crockpot With the shredded chicken still hot from the crockpot add the block of cream cheese and the shredded mozzarella Cover again and let it warm until the cheeses have fully melted then stir for a silky creamy mixture

Crisp the Bacon:

While the cheese melts lay bacon strips in a cold pan Set over medium heat and cook slowly turning as needed until deeply golden and crispy Drain on a paper towel and break into sandwich sized pieces

Toast the Buns:

Slice brioche buns and spread with a little butter or mayo Toast cut side down in a dry skillet until golden and crisp The toasty edges will hold up to the juicy chicken filling

Assemble the Sandwiches:

Spoon generous portions of creamy chicken mixture onto each toasted bun Top with bacon Serve immediately while hot and gooey

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My favorite part of this recipe has to be the rich sun dried tomato flavor The way it comes through in the final bite reminds me of family picnics when we would pack sandwiches with extra bold flavors Sometimes my kids sneak extra bacon on theirs and claim it is the secret touch

Storage tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days The chicken mixture reheats beautifully on the stove or in the microwave Toast fresh buns just before serving You can also freeze the filling for up to two months Just thaw overnight and reheat gently

Ingredient substitutions

No brioche buns Substitute with any soft sandwich bread or even pretzel rolls For a lower fat version try neufchâtel cheese instead of regular cream cheese and turkey bacon in place of pork bacon Monterey Jack or provolone works well if you are out of mozzarella

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Serving suggestions

These sandwiches shine with simple sides like a crisp green salad kettle chips or roasted vegetables For a dinner party serve with a big bowl of pickles or crunchy slaw I sometimes add a little arugula or peppery greens for brightness

Cultural and historical context

Marry Me Chicken is a playful American recipe said to be so good it might inspire a marriage proposal Adapting it into a crockpot sandwich keeps all the flavors but makes it even more practical for busy families or weekday dinners It is my favorite kind of modern comfort food that brings everyone to the table

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal as they become tender and shred easily after slow cooking.

→ Can I substitute sundried tomatoes?

Yes, roasted red peppers or fresh tomatoes can be used for a different flavor profile, but sun dried tomatoes give richer taste.

→ How can I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Use enough broth, don’t overcook, and keep the lid closed during cooking to retain moisture.

→ What’s the best way to serve these sandwiches?

Toast brioche buns with butter or mayo for extra flavor and top with crispy bacon just before serving.

→ Can this dish be made ahead?

Yes, prepare the chicken mixture in advance and reheat gently before assembling the sandwiches for serving.

→ Is there a recommended cheese substitute?

Monterey Jack or provolone can be used if mozzarella is unavailable, offering a similarly smooth texture.