This Easy Crockpot Tuscan Garlic Chicken is a tasty dish that mixes juicy chicken with fresh spinach and sweet tomatoes. The garlic adds a lovely flavor that makes your mouth water!
I love how simple it is—just toss everything into the crockpot and let it work its magic while you go about your day. Serve it over pasta or rice for a cozy meal! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I love using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their tenderness. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work beautifully too! They add extra flavor and moisture.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Sun-dried tomatoes can enhance the dish’s flavor. If you don’t have them, you can use fresh tomatoes or cherry tomatoes instead. They will add a nice juiciness but will require a longer cooking time to break down.
Baby Spinach: Fresh baby spinach is great for this recipe. You can substitute it with kale or Swiss chard if you want a heartier green, but remember to adjust the cooking time as these greens may take a bit longer to soften.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. The consistency will change a bit, but it can still be delicious!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a rich flavor. Pecorino Romano is a good alternative if you like something sharper. For dairy-free, skip the cheese or use a vegan parmesan substitute.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Tender and Juicy?
To keep your chicken tender, it’s key to not overcook it. Use a slow cooker set to low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be cooked until it easily pulls apart with a fork.
- Start by searing the chicken for a few minutes; this boosts flavor and gives it a nice color.
- Add liquid (broth and cream) to maintain moisture. Just enough to cover the chicken halfway is ideal.
- Last but not least, adding the spinach and cheese toward the end ensures they don’t overcook and that you retain bright colors and nutrition.
Easy Crockpot Tuscan Garlic Chicken with Spinach & Tomatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (preferably in oil), drained and chopped
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: fresh basil or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and then it cooks for either 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in the crockpot. Perfect for a busy day when you want a warm meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps them to brown nicely. Then, sprinkle salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides of the chicken to add flavor.
2. Sear for Extra Flavor (Optional):
In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step is optional, but it gives your chicken a delicious, rich flavor!
3. Combine in the Crockpot:
Place the seared chicken breasts in the crockpot. Add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes on top of the chicken.
4. Add Creamy Goodness:
Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream over everything in the crockpot. This will create a lovely creamy sauce while cooking.
5. Cook It Up:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and very tender when it’s done.
6. Incorporate the Greens:
About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh spinach and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover again and let it cook until the spinach wilts down.
7. Final Touches:
Once everything is cooked, gently stir to combine all the ingredients. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings if needed, adding more salt or pepper according to your liking.
8. Garnish and Serve:
For an extra touch, garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving. This Tuscan garlic chicken is delicious served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Enjoy your comforting and flavorful Easy Crockpot Tuscan Garlic Chicken with Spinach & Tomatoes! 😊
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Tuscan Garlic Chicken with Spinach & Tomatoes
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Cooking time may vary if using frozen chicken, so ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce a day in advance. Just store it all in the crockpot insert in the fridge overnight. In the morning, plug it in and let it cook. Add the spinach and cheese in the last 15 minutes as instructed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it moist.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a crusty piece of bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, serve it over zucchini noodles or with a fresh salad on the side!
