Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken

Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken: A Heartwarming Family Favorite

There’s something undeniably magical about the comforting aroma of Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken wafting through your home, wrapping you in warmth like a soft blanket. Imagine coming home after a long day, the rich scent of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian herbs greeting you at the door. Your heart feels lighter, and your taste buds awaken with anticipation. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and emotions, a perfect pick for cozy family dinners or festive occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken has captured hearts and bellies for many reasons. Here are just a few:

• Effortless Preparation: Toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the magic for you. Perfect for those busy weeknights!
• A Taste of Italy at Home: Enjoy the authentic flavors of Tuscany right in your kitchen without the need to travel far.
• Indulgent Yet Healthy: With fresh ingredients and lean chicken, this dish is an indulgent treat that also leans toward healthier eating.
• Family-Friendly: This comforting dinner pleases even the pickiest eaters while still feeling special enough for guests.
• Versatile: Serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread; this dish adapts to your cravings!

Ingredients with Notes

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Lean protein that remains juicy during cooking.
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil): Adds a punch of flavor; alternate use of fresh tomatoes is possible.
• 2 cups spinach: For freshness and color; substitute with kale for a heartier texture.
• 4 cloves garlic (minced): For depth of flavor; don’t skimp on this!
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a luscious sauce; dairy-free options include coconut cream.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Adds a lovely herbal note; consider fresh herbs for an extra kick.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for rounding out all the flavors.
• Fresh basil for garnish: A fragrant finishing touch.

Prep and Cook Time

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high
• Total time: About 6 hours and 15 minutes to 8 hours, depending on your schedule.

With a little patience, this slow cooker recipe reveals a magnificent dish that provides cozy satisfaction.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. You’ll want to give it a generous sprinkle.
2. Layer it Up: In your slow cooker, place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning on top.
3. Add the Cream: Pour the heavy cream over the chicken and veggies. This is when you’ll start to imagine how creamy and delightful the sauce will be.
4. Add Spinach Last: Gently stir in the spinach, making sure it gets coated. This is where your kitchen starts smelling incredible and inviting.
5. Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. While it cooks, engage in your favorite evening activities – a perfect chance to unwind!
6. Finish and Garnish: Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks, stir to combine, and garnish generously with fresh basil before serving.

Tips and Variations

• Healthy Swaps: Use Greek yogurt in place of heavy cream for a lighter alternative without sacrificing creaminess.
• Add Veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and texture.
• Herbaceous Twist: Fresh rosemary or thyme can elevate the dish’s flavor profile for seasonal gatherings.
• Serve with Grains: Try it over quinoa or farro for a whole grain spin.

Serving Ideas

Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken shines best in warm scenes. Imagine this dish gracing your family table surrounded by roasted vegetables and a warm loaf of garlic bread. It’s perfect for a weekday dinner, but its rich flavors make it equally exquisite for special occasions or a holiday feast. Pair it with a glass of crisp white wine, and you’ve got a moment worth savoring.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers? Yes, please! Store any remaining chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can freeze any extras for up to 3 months; just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan on low heat, adding a splash of cream to keep the sauce silky.

Chef’s Pro Tips

1. Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before shredding it. This ensures it remains juicy and flavorful.
2. Fresh Herbs: Add fresh herbs just before serving to maintain their bright, vibrant flavor.
3. Don’t Rush It: Cooking on low might take longer, but it allows flavors to meld beautifully!

FAQs

• Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
  Absolutely! Thighs will add more flavor and moisture.

• Can I substitute the cream for a dairy-free option?
  Yes! Coconut cream or cashew cream makes a delicious alternative.

• What sides go well with this dish?
  It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or over buttery noodles.

Conclusion

There you have it: a recipe for Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken that’s as heartwarming as your favorite memories. This dish isn’t just about filling your stomach; it’s about filling your home with the flavors of love and comfort. Gather your loved ones around the table, share stories, and allow this delightful dish to bring joy to your family meals. As you savor every bite, know that you’ve created more than just a meal; you’ve created an experience and lasting memories. Enjoy!

Contents

• 1 Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken
  • 1.1 Ingredients  
    • 1.1.1 Main Ingredients
  • 1.2 Instructions 
    • 1.2.1 Preparation
    • 1.2.2 Finishing
  • 1.3 Notes

Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken

A heartwarming dish that combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy sauce, cooked to perfection in a slow cooker.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 hours hrs

Total Time 8 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Lean protein that remains juicy during cooking.
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil) Adds a punch of flavor; alternate use of fresh tomatoes is possible.
• 2 cups spinach For freshness and color; substitute with kale for a heartier texture.
• 4 cloves garlic (minced) For depth of flavor; don’t skimp on this!
• 1 cup heavy cream Creates a luscious sauce; dairy-free options include coconut cream.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning Adds a lovely herbal note; consider fresh herbs for an extra kick.
• to taste salt and pepper Essential for rounding out all the flavors.
• Fresh basil for garnish A fragrant finishing touch.

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, giving them a generous sprinkle.
• In your slow cooker, place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom.
• Add the sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning on top.
• Pour the heavy cream over the chicken and veggies.
• Gently stir in the spinach, making sure it gets coated.
• Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours.

Finishing

• Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks, stir to combine, and garnish generously with fresh basil before serving.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently with a splash of cream for a silky sauce. Consider using Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter option.

Keyword Comfort Food, Easy Recipe, Family Dinner, Slow Cooker, Tuscan Chicken

Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.

📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest