Crockpot Tuscan Chicken is a rich and creamy dish that combines tender chicken with flavorful ingredients inspired by Italian cuisine. This recipe is perfect for busy days because it allows you to set it and forget it. With its delicious combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and spinach, this meal is sure to please everyone at the dinner table.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great for several reasons. First, it’s super easy to prepare. You can toss everything into the crockpot and let it cook while you go about your day. Second, the flavors meld together beautifully during cooking, so the dish is both tasty and comforting. Finally, it’s adaptable. You can serve it over pasta, rice, or even enjoy it on its own.
How to Make Crockpot Tuscan Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 teaspoons Homemade Italian Seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Kosher salt and cracked black pepper to taste
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 cup baby spinach (chopped)
Directions:
- Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Be sure to season both sides.
- Spray the inside of the crockpot with nonstick cooking spray. Layer the seasoned chicken at the bottom of the crockpot.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, heavy cream, minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese.
- Pour this sauce over the chicken in the crockpot.
- Cook on high for 3 hours, or low for 5 hours.
- Right before serving, add the chopped spinach to the crockpot. Replace the lid and let the spinach wilt for a few minutes.
- Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve over cooked pasta, and enjoy!
How to Serve Crockpot Tuscan Chicken
Crockpot Tuscan Chicken is best served over a bed of your favorite pasta, such as fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti. You can also serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. A fresh salad on the side can complement this dish nicely.
How to Store Crockpot Tuscan Chicken
To store any leftovers, let the Crockpot Tuscan Chicken cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Tips to Make Crockpot Tuscan Chicken
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
- You can play with the recipe by adding more vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms.
- If you like spice, consider adding some red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Variation
For a lighter version, you can use half and half instead of heavy cream and lean ground turkey instead of chicken. You can also substitute kale for the spinach if you prefer.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to increase the cooking time. Cooking on high might take about 4-5 hours, and on low, around 6-7 hours.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to start cooking.
3. What can I serve with Crockpot Tuscan Chicken?
This dish goes well with pasta, rice, or a side of roasted vegetables. A salad can also be a refreshing accompaniment.
Crockpot Tuscan Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 teaspoons Homemade Italian Seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- to taste Kosher salt and cracked black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 cup baby spinach (chopped)
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- Spray the inside of the crockpot with nonstick cooking spray and layer the seasoned chicken at the bottom.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, heavy cream, minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken in the crockpot.
Cooking
- Cook on high for 3 hours or low for 5 hours.
- Right before serving, add the chopped spinach to the crockpot and let it wilt with the lid on for a few minutes.
- Season with additional salt and pepper if needed, and serve over cooked pasta.
