Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken

Short Description

Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken is a rich and creamy dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a flavorful sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. This easy, set-it-and-forget-it meal is perfect for busy weeknights and pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or veggies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hands-off cooking – Let the slow cooker do the work!
• Creamy and flavorful – A restaurant-quality dish made easily at home.
• Perfect for meal prep – Tastes even better the next day.
• Customizable – Works with different proteins and vegetables.
• Family-friendly – A comforting meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream (or cream cheese for extra richness)
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh spinach
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Directions

1. Sear the chicken – Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. (This step adds flavor but can be skipped if needed.)
2. Add ingredients to the slow cooker – Place the chicken in the slow cooker. Add garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and chicken broth.
3. Slow cook – Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender.
4. Make it creamy – Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, then add fresh spinach. Let it cook for another 10-15 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens.
5. Serve and enjoy – Spoon over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
• Total Time: 4-6 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Keto-Friendly: Serve over cauliflower rice or zoodles instead of pasta.
• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Extra Veggies: Stir in mushrooms, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes.
• Cheesy Twist: Add shredded mozzarella or cream cheese for extra creaminess.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken in the slow cooker?

Yes, but it will take longer to cook. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.

What type of sun-dried tomatoes should I use?

Both oil-packed and dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes work, but oil-packed adds extra flavor. Drain them before adding.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and work well in slow cooker recipes.

What can I serve with Tuscan chicken?

It pairs well with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

How do I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, then stir it in and let it cook for a few more minutes.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then do a quick release before adding the cream and spinach.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you serve it with gluten-free sides like rice or mashed potatoes.

Can I add mushrooms to this dish?

Definitely! Sauté them first for the best flavor before adding to the slow cooker.

How can I make this dish lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of Parmesan.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Milk works, but the sauce will be thinner. Adding a little cream cheese can help make it creamy.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken is an easy, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With minimal prep and a hands-off cooking process, you’ll have a comforting and delicious meal ready to enjoy. Try different variations, pair it with your favorite sides, and enjoy this rich and satisfying dish!

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