Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken

There’s something magical about a busy day winding down with the aromas of Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken filling the air. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was one of those chilly nights when I craved something warm and comforting. As I prepped the ingredients, I could already envision the tender chicken swimming in rich, creamy sauce, enveloped by the delightful flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. From that moment, it became a go-to recipe in my household, a hug in a bowl that brings everyone together.

One of the things I adore about Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken is its simplicity. The best part? You can throw everything in your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering, this dish is versatile enough to impress anyone. The creamy sauce is a showstopper, perfect for drizzling over your favorite pasta or serving alongside fluffy mashed potatoes. Trust me, once you experience the blend of flavors, you’ll want to make it over and over again.

So, if you’re looking for an easy yet impressive dish that will have your family and friends raving, then Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken is the answer. Get ready to enjoy a meal that not only warms your belly but also fills your heart with joy.

What Goes Into Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken

Great meals start with great ingredients. The beauty of Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken lies not only in its ease but also in the quality of its components. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that symphony of flavors. The juicy chicken, combined with rich cream and aromatic spices, creates a soothing, inviting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: Tender and juicy, these breasts are the star of the dish, soaking up all the flavors from the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing the flavors of all ingredients.
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a bit of heat to complement the creaminess.
• ¾ cup heavy cream: This ingredient gives the sauce its rich texture and flavor.
• ½ cup chicken broth: Helps to thin the sauce while adding depth of flavor.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: This adds a nutty flavor and thickness to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Used as a thickening agent for the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a hint of tang that brightens the overall flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings traditional Italian flavors.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Provides a deep, smoky flavor that enhances the dish.
• 3 cloves garlic: Finely minced for a fragrant base.
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil: Adds sweetness and a chewy texture.
• 1 ½ cups fresh baby spinach: A nutritious and colorful addition that wilts beautifully into the sauce.

Recipe Steps for Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken

Cooking is an adventure, and the journey to create Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken is as enjoyable as the dish itself. Let’s dive into the steps that will guide you to a delightful meal. Make sure to keep an eye on the chicken and sauce, and remember the magic truly happens when you let the slow cooker work its charm.

1. Start by spraying the insert of your slow cooker with cooking spray if you prefer. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Next, add the chicken breasts to the pot. Generously season them with salt and black pepper. Take a moment to admire how the seasoning enhances the visual appeal; it’s all about building flavor from the start.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, cornstarch, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and garlic. Whisk these ingredients together until they’re well incorporated. The mixture may not be completely smooth due to the cheese and garlic, but that’s perfectly fine.
3. Pour this luscious mixture evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker. Take a moment to ensure that each piece is well covered; this will ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
4. Next, scatter the sun-dried tomatoes over and around the chicken. Their vibrant color and sweetness will infuse the dish as it cooks, creating a beautiful presentation.
5. Now it’s time to cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set it to cook on low for about 4 to 5 hours, or on high for about 2 to 3 hours. If you have the luxury of time, I recommend cooking on low. It really allows the flavors to meld and prevents the cream from curdling or separating.
6. While cooking, check the chicken towards the end of the cooking time. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If it’s not quite there yet, you can continue cooking, but avoid going over 5 hours on low. If you do, the sauce may break apart.
7. Approximately 10 minutes before serving, uncover the slow cooker and give the sauce a good stir. This will help bring everything together and ensure a cohesive flavor. Now, add the baby spinach to the pot. Gently nestle it into the sauce, and replace the lid. Let it cook for another 10 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
8. As it finishes cooking, taste the sauce. This is your moment to adjust any flavors! If you feel it needs a pinch more salt, pepper, or even a dash more paprika, now’s the time to add those adjustments.
9. For a beautiful finishing touch, consider garnishing the chicken with extra Parmesan cheese before serving. You can serve it immediately with a side of pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice, and enjoy a delightful meal that warms your heart.

Ways to Customize

Every cook loves to experiment! Here are some ideas to make Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken your own.

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish, but it’s best to do so without the cream sauce. Thaw, then add cream when reheating for a fresher taste!
• Variations: Try adding other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you enjoy heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Herb it up: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the final dish. Stir them in just before serving for freshness.
• Cheese swap: If you’re not a fan of Parmesan, feel free to try other cheeses like mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

Serving Ideas for Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken

When it comes to serving Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken, the possibilities are endless. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for various occasions. Here are some fantastic ideas for how to serve it:

• Classic Pasta Pairing: Serve the chicken over a bed of fettuccine or penne pasta. The creamy sauce will cling beautifully to the noodles.
• Comforting Mashed Potatoes: The rich sauce is perfect for pouring over fluffy mashed potatoes, creating a comforting and filling meal.
• Rice Lover’s Delight: Pair the dish with white or brown rice. The rice will soak up the delicious sauce and enhance the meal’s heartiness.
• Fresh Salad Side: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken and adds a refreshing crunch.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping into the creamy sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser and perfect for mopping up every last bit.
• Dinner Party Main Dish: Impress your guests by presenting this dish as the main event at a dinner gathering. It’s sure to become a favorite!
• Special Occasion Meal: Perfect for holidays or family gatherings, this dish is elegant enough to serve during festive times.

FAQ

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken is truly a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor together in one pot. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s a meal that warms both the heart and the stomach. I encourage you to try this recipe and savor the deliciousness it offers. You won’t be disappointed—it’s bound to become a favorite in your home!

Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken combines rich flavors and creamy textures for an easy weeknight dinner. With tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach, this dish is both satisfying and delightful. Make it tonight for a meal your family will love!

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 5 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 620

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts about 1/2-pound each; or about 2 pounds chicken in total
• 1 teaspoon salt or more to taste
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper or to taste
• 3/4 cup heavy cream do not substitute; the fat in heavy cream is necessary to prevent curdling or separating of the sauce
• 1/2 cup chicken broth regular or reduced sodium; if using reduced sodium you’ll likely want to add more salt
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika regular paprika may be substituted
• 3 cloves garlic finely minced
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil drained and blotted (dice them if necessary because they’re on the bigger side)
• 1 1/2 cups fresh baby spinach

Equipment

• 6-quart slow cooker
• 7 Quart Slow Cooker
• Digital Thermometer

Method

 

1. Start by spraying the insert of your slow cooker with cooking spray if you prefer. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Next, add the chicken breasts to the pot. Generously season them with salt and black pepper. Take a moment to admire how the seasoning enhances the visual appeal; it’s all about building flavor from the start.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, cornstarch, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and garlic. Whisk these ingredients together until they're well incorporated. The mixture may not be completely smooth due to the cheese and garlic, but that’s perfectly fine.
3. Pour this luscious mixture evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker. Take a moment to ensure that each piece is well covered; this will ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
4. Next, scatter the sun-dried tomatoes over and around the chicken. Their vibrant color and sweetness will infuse the dish as it cooks, creating a beautiful presentation.
5. Now it’s time to cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set it to cook on low for about 4 to 5 hours, or on high for about 2 to 3 hours. If you have the luxury of time, I recommend cooking on low. It really allows the flavors to meld and prevents the cream from curdling or separating.
6. While cooking, check the chicken towards the end of the cooking time. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If it’s not quite there yet, you can continue cooking, but avoid going over 5 hours on low. If you do, the sauce may break apart.
7. Approximately 10 minutes before serving, uncover the slow cooker and give the sauce a good stir. This will help bring everything together and ensure a cohesive flavor. Now, add the baby spinach to the pot. Gently nestle it into the sauce, and replace the lid. Let it cook for another 10 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
8. As it finishes cooking, taste the sauce. This is your moment to adjust any flavors! If you feel it needs a pinch more salt, pepper, or even a dash more paprika, now’s the time to add those adjustments.
9. For a beautiful finishing touch, consider garnishing the chicken with extra Parmesan cheese before serving. You can serve it immediately with a side of pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice, and enjoy a delightful meal that warms your heart.

Notes

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish, but it’s best to do so without the cream sauce. Thaw, then add cream when reheating for a fresher taste!
• Variations: Try adding other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you enjoy heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Herb it up: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the final dish. Stir them in just before serving for freshness.
• Cheese swap: If you're not a fan of Parmesan, feel free to try other cheeses like mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

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Meet Adele Mercer

Every meal deserves a spectacular finish, whether it is a savory main or a sweet treat. I enjoy the entire creative cycle, from kneading dough to editing the final photos. I developed this recipe to be approachable for home cooks while ensuring it delivers the high-quality results you expect.