Name: Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds chicken thighs; 3 ounces baby spinach; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup sliced sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil); 1/2 cup chicken stock; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon oil from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes; 2 teaspoons dried parsley; 1/2 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper

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Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken

Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken is a delightful dish that captures the essence of Italy in every bite. This creamy, flavorful meal combines tender chicken thighs with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a rich sauce that can make even the busiest weeknight feel like a special occasion. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will make your mouth water, drawing your family closer to the dinner table with smiles on their faces. The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its delectable taste but also in its simplicity and convenience, making it a perfect choice for any home cook. Here, I’ll share a step-by-step guide to help you create this comforting dish effortlessly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the greatest benefits of Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken is its easy prep. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create an exquisite meal that feels gourmet. Family-friendly and appealing to both kids and adults, it’s a versatile recipe that caters to various palates. Plus, the slow cooker allows for a hassle-free cooking experience, giving you the freedom to tackle other tasks while dinner cooks itself. Using minimal ingredients also means you won’t spend hours shopping or prepping, making this a win-win dinner solution.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken

1 1⁄2 pounds chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, they soak up the flavors beautifully.
3 ounces baby spinach: Adds a touch of color and nutrients, yielding a fresh flavor.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides creaminess and a touch of nutty flavor.
1 cup heavy cream: The rich base that ties the dish together in creamy perfection.
1⁄2 cup sliced sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil): They bring a burst of concentrated flavor.
1⁄2 cup chicken stock: Adds depth and enhances the overall taste.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant aroma and a nice kick.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds seamless richness to the sauce.
1 tablespoon oil from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes: Contributes an additional layer of flavor.
2 teaspoons dried parsley: Imparts a light herby taste and vibrant green color.
1⁄2 teaspoon dried basil: Offers a fragrant herbal note that is unforgettable.
1⁄2 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
1⁄4 teaspoon dried oregano: Complements the Italian influence of the dish.
1⁄4 teaspoon ground pepper: Adds a dash of seasoning to round out the palette.

Step-by-Step Directions

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter and oil from the sun-dried tomatoes with the minced garlic. Sauté for about 20 seconds, taking care not to brown the garlic to preserve its sweetness.
Add the chicken stock and heavy cream, allowing the mixture to simmer for approximately 8 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce while continuing to simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes.
Meanwhile, place the chicken thighs into the slow cooker insert. Sprinkle the dried basil, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken.
Arrange the sliced sun-dried tomatoes on top of the chicken, layering them with love.
Pour the thickened sauce over everything in the slow cooker, ensuring everything is well-coated.
Set your slow cooker on high for 3 hours or on low for 6 hours, letting it do the magic.
Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside to rest. Stir the baby spinach into the sauce in the slow cooker until wilted.
Serve the chicken Florentine with the sauce poured generously over the top and enjoy the harmonious flavors!

Tips & Tricks

To elevate this dish further, consider searing the chicken thighs in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. This will create a deeper flavor profile with a lovely golden crust. For those who want a bit more zing, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Additionally, you can swap out spinach for kale if you’re seeking an even heartier green. For extra creaminess, you could fold in cream cheese before serving for a luxuriously smooth sauce.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken is delicious served over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes, pasta, or even rice. You can also accompany it with a crisp green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Consider serving garlic bread or crusty rolls on the side to soak up the amazing sauce, making every bite heavenly.

Nutritional Information

Although the rich ingredients do make this a treat, moderation is key. Per serving, you can expect approximately 485 calories, depending on portion sizes. This meal is packed with proteins and healthy fats, making it satisfying and nourishing while still being indulgent. If you’re aiming to lighten the dish, using half-and-half instead of heavy cream can provide a similar taste with fewer calories.

Storing Tips & Variations for Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken

If you have leftovers, they store well in an airtight container, allowing you to enjoy this dish for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. For freezing, let the leftovers cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container, where they can be kept for about 3 months. When it comes time to reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove or microwave. For healthier swaps, consider using skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs or opting for reduced-fat versions of cheese and cream. You can also get creative by adding various vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added texture and nutrition.

Conclusion for Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken

Now that you have the step-by-step process and insights on how to make this flavorful dish, it’s time to give Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken a try. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, it’s bound to impress with its creamy sauce and delightful textures. Don’t hesitate – gather your ingredients today and enjoy a taste of Tuscany in the comfort of your home!

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?
Yes, although chicken thighs are more flavorful, chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option. Just be mindful not to overcook them to maintain tenderness.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge and pop it into the slow cooker when ready to cook.
What sides go well with this dish?
It pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. Garlic bread is also a hit for soaking up the delicious sauce.
How do I know it’s done cooking?
The chicken should be tender and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. It should easily shred apart with a fork when it’s well done.

Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken

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Author: eliana-quinn
Total Time: 195 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

A creamy and flavorful dish combining tender chicken thighs with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, perfect for busy weeknights.

Instructions

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter and oil from the sun-dried tomatoes with the minced garlic. Sauté for about 20 seconds, taking care not to brown the garlic to preserve its sweetness.
Add the chicken stock and heavy cream, allowing the mixture to simmer for approximately 8 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce while continuing to simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes.
Meanwhile, place the chicken thighs into the slow cooker insert. Sprinkle the dried basil, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken.
Arrange the sliced sun-dried tomatoes on top of the chicken, layering them with love.
Pour the thickened sauce over everything in the slow cooker, ensuring everything is well-coated.
Set your slow cooker on high for 180 minutes or on low for 360 minutes, letting it do the magic.
Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside to rest. Stir the baby spinach into the sauce in the slow cooker until wilted.
Serve the chicken Florentine with the sauce poured generously over the top and enjoy the harmonious flavors!