Crockpot Tuscan Chicken

Introduction

Crockpot Tuscan Chicken is a rich and creamy dish packed with savory flavors and vibrant colors. This slow-cooked comfort meal combines tender chicken breasts with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a decadent Parmesan cream sauce. The crockpot does all the work, making it an easy, hands-off recipe that delivers gourmet-level results.

I remember the first time I made this for a cozy dinner with loved ones, and the aroma that filled the house was simply irresistible. The combination of creamy sauce, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and the freshness of spinach elevates the chicken to a whole new level. Whether you’re serving it over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, this dish becomes an instant favorite.

What’s fantastic about this recipe is how effortlessly it comes together, allowing you to focus on other things while the crockpot does its magic. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something comforting and delicious, yet easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a special gathering or just treating yourself to a gourmet meal, this Crockpot Tuscan Chicken will quickly become a go-to recipe that everyone will love.

Perfect for:

• Busy weeknights
• Cozy family dinners
• Meal prepping
• Guests or entertaining
• Lovers of creamy, flavorful meals

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Tuscan Chicken

Here’s why Crockpot Tuscan Chicken deserves a spot in your meal rotation:

• Effortless Preparation: Let the slow cooker do the work while you go about your day.
• Luxuriously Creamy Sauce: The rich Parmesan and cream cheese sauce perfectly coats the chicken and vegetables.
• Bursting with Flavor: Sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs bring bold, Tuscan-inspired flavors to the dish.
• Customizable Serving Options: Serve over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish reheats beautifully, making it a great choice for leftovers or meal prep.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 4-6 hours
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4-6 hours (depending on heat setting)
• Servings: 4-6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 40g, Fat: 30g, Carbs: 7g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for Crockpot Tuscan Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained, and sliced)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 3 cups fresh spinach (or 2 cups if using baby spinach)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley or additional Parmesan cheese

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken is ideal, but thighs can also be used for a juicier option.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a sweet, tangy flavor that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
• Parmesan and Cream Cheese: These cheeses combine to create a luxurious, creamy texture and savory taste.
• Spinach: Adds a healthy, vibrant touch and balances the richness of the dish.
• Heavy Cream: The base of the sauce that keeps it smooth and creamy.
• Italian Seasoning and Garlic: Bring classic Mediterranean flavors to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients:

1. Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Combine the Sauce Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, chicken broth, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Set aside.

Assemble in the Crockpot:

3. Layer the Ingredients: Drizzle the olive oil in the bottom of the crockpot, then lay the chicken breasts in a single layer.
4. Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Scatter the sliced sun-dried tomatoes over the chicken.
5. Pour the Sauce: Pour the prepared cream sauce evenly over the chicken and tomatoes.

Cook the Chicken:

6. Set the Crockpot: Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked (165°F internal temperature).

Finish the Dish:

7. Add the Spinach: About 30 minutes before serving, stir the fresh spinach into the sauce. Cover and let it wilt.
8. Adjust the Sauce: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper, if needed.

Serve:

9. Garnish and Serve: Serve the chicken with sauce over your preferred side dish (e.g., pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or a low-carb alternative like zucchini noodles). Garnish with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan, if desired.

How to Serve Crockpot Tuscan Chicken

Crockpot Tuscan Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:

• Classic Pasta: Serve over fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Mashed Potatoes: The rich sauce is perfect for spooning over creamy mashed potatoes.
• Rice or Risotto: White rice or a buttery risotto complements the dish beautifully.
• Low-Carb Options: Pair with cauliflower rice, spaghetti squash, or steamed broccoli for a keto-friendly meal.
• Crusty Bread: Use crusty bread to mop up every drop of the sauce.

Additional Tips for Crockpot Tuscan Chicken

Here are some tips for making Crockpot Tuscan Chicken even better:

• Use Thighs for Extra Juiciness: Chicken thighs are less prone to drying out during slow cooking.
• Sear the Chicken First: For added flavor, sear the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot.
• Control the Thickness of the Sauce: If the sauce is too thick, thin it with a splash of chicken broth. If it’s too thin, let it cook uncovered for the last 20-30 minutes.
• Don’t Overcook: Be careful not to overcook the chicken to avoid dryness.
• Add Spinach at the End: Stir in the spinach during the last 30 minutes to prevent overcooking.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and texture.
• Fresh Parmesan is Best: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the creamiest and most flavorful sauce.

Recipe Variations for Crockpot Tuscan Chicken

Here are 10 variations to make Crockpot Tuscan Chicken uniquely yours:

1. Bacon Tuscan Chicken: Add cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky, savory addition.
2. Tuscan Chicken with Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms to the crockpot for an earthy flavor.
3. Creamy Garlic Tuscan Chicken: Increase the garlic to 5-6 cloves for a bold, garlicky kick.
4. Artichoke Tuscan Chicken: Add artichoke hearts for a tangy, Mediterranean twist.
5. Spicy Tuscan Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
6. Keto Tuscan Chicken: Skip the sun-dried tomatoes and serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
7. Pesto Tuscan Chicken: Stir in 2 tablespoons of basil pesto to the sauce for extra herbaceous flavor.
8. Lemon Tuscan Chicken: Add the juice of half a lemon to the sauce for a citrusy brightness.
9. Seafood Tuscan Dish: Replace the chicken with shrimp or salmon for a seafood variation.
10. Cheesy Tuscan Chicken: Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and let it melt during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Freezing and Storage for Crockpot Tuscan Chicken

• Freezing: Allow leftovers to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Special Equipment for Crockpot Tuscan Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make Crockpot Tuscan Chicken:

• Crockpot/Slow Cooker: A 6-quart slow cooker works well for this recipe.
• Whisk: For mixing the cream sauce.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate measurements.
• Instant-Read Thermometer: To check the chicken’s internal temperature (165°F for doneness).

Frequently Asked Questions for Crockpot Tuscan Chicken

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
   Yes, but ensure the chicken is thawed before adding it to the crockpot for even cooking.
2. Can I make this dairy-free?
   Yes, use coconut cream and a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.
3. Can I cook this on the stovetop?
   Yes, sear the chicken in a large skillet, prepare the sauce separately, and simmer everything together for 20-25 minutes.
4. Can I add other vegetables?
   Absolutely! Mushrooms, artichokes, or zucchini are excellent additions.
5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
   Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

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Conclusion

Crockpot Tuscan Chicken is the epitome of comfort food with a sophisticated twist. This dish brings together tender chicken, rich creaminess, and a blend of savory Tuscan-inspired flavors, all simmered to perfection in the slow cooker. It’s a breeze to prepare, making it the perfect choice for busy days when you still want a meal that feels special.

The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, spinach, and Italian seasonings creates a vibrant, flavorful sauce that perfectly coats the chicken, making every bite rich and satisfying. Whether served over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, this dish is versatile and perfect for feeding a family or hosting guests.

With minimal effort and maximum flavor, Crockpot Tuscan Chicken is sure to become a go-to in your dinner rotation. It’s the ultimate in cozy, hearty comfort with a dash of elegance that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

I’d love to see how your Crockpot Tuscan Chicken turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—can’t wait to see your delicious creations! Happy cooking!