When you think of comfort food, Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Cream Sauce should top the list. This delightful dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a rich blend of flavors and creamy goodness that will tantalize your taste buds. The slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing the chicken to become tender while soaking up the savory garlic and sun-dried tomato essence. Plus, the addition of fresh spinach adds a burst of color and nutrition to the dish, making it not just delicious but visually appealing as well.
Why We Love This Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Cream Sauce Recipe
There are countless reasons to love this Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken recipe. Firstly, the convenience of a slow cooker means you can prepare this meal in the morning and come home to an aromatic, ready-to-eat dinner. The combination of chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy sauce creates a comforting dish that satisfies your cravings. Whether paired with pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes, each bite is a medley of flavors that brings the essence of Italian cuisine right to your table. With its balanced ingredients and easy directions, this dish has become a staple in many households.
Ingredients about Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Cream Sauce
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 1 tablespoon sun-dried tomato oil (from the jar)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 5 ounces baby spinach
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker sauce)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley, for serving
- Cooked pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or cauliflower mash, for serving
How to Make Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Cream Sauce Directions
To create this flavorful Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken, start by seasoning your chicken breasts or thighs. Sprinkle kosher salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and optional crushed red pepper flakes evenly over the chicken. This will enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Once seasoned, place the chicken in the slow cooker. Then, add minced garlic and low-sodium chicken broth. The chicken broth not only helps to keep the chicken moist but also forms the base for the creamy sauce. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes along with a tablespoon of the sun-dried tomato oil to infuse more flavor.
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. When the chicken is thoroughly cooked, prepare the creamy sauce. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and softened cream cheese until you achieve a smooth consistency.
Add this mixture to the slow cooker, along with the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. If you prefer a richer sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water to create a slurry, adding it at this stage. This step is optional but can give your sauce that desired thickness.
Cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes on low, allowing the sauce to thicken and flavors to blend. Finally, add the baby spinach to the slow cooker, stirring until it wilts, which should only take 1 to 2 minutes.
Your Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Cream Sauce is now ready to serve.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Cream Sauce
Serving your Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken is where you can get creative. You have several delicious options to complement this rich dish. A classic choice is to serve it over cooked pasta, allowing the creamy sauce to coat each strand perfectly.
Alternatively, consider presenting it with fluffy rice for a lighter option. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, mashed potatoes or even cauliflower mash will pair beautifully and soak up that enchanting sauce.
Garnish each serving with chopped fresh basil or parsley to add a burst of color and freshness. This simple yet elegant touch elevates the visual appeal of your dish and enhances its flavor. The vibrant greens contrast beautifully with the creamy sauce, making your meal as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Expert Tips: Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Cream Sauce
- Chicken Choices: Whether you choose boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, both options work wonderfully. Thighs will provide a richer flavor, while breasts are leaner.
- Adjusting the Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, omit the crushed red pepper flakes entirely. Conversely, if you enjoy heat, feel free to increase the amount according to your liking.
- Creaminess Control: If you want a lighter sauce, opt for half-and-half instead of heavy cream. This substitution provides creaminess without being too rich.
- Chop Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Make sure to chop the sun-dried tomatoes into smaller pieces to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the dish, enhancing each bite.
- Cooking Time: Always check your chicken for doneness. Cooking times can vary based on your slow cooker, so it’s essential to use an instant-read thermometer to ensure safe consumption.
- Customize With Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables to your slow cooker, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, for enhanced flavor and nutrition.
How to Store Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Cream Sauce
Storing your Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken is straightforward. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help preserve the flavors and prevent spoilage.
Refrigerate the dish for up to 3 to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. If the sauce appears slightly thicker after refrigeration, feel free to stir in a splash of chicken broth or cream to regain that creamy consistency.
Variation of Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Cream Sauce
While this recipe is already full of delightful flavors, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences.
Consider experimenting with different herbs and spices. For instance, adding a sprinkle of oregano or thyme can provide an extra layer of flavor. You may also swap sun-dried tomatoes for roasted red peppers for a unique twist.
To make the dish more substantial, add sliced or cubed zucchini and other vegetables about halfway through the cooking process. This not only boosts the nutrition but also enhances the overall texture of the dish.
If you prefer a different protein, try replacing chicken with boneless skinless turkey or even firm tofu for a vegetarian variation. The slow cooker allows for plenty of creativity while maintaining the essence of this wonderful Tuscan-inspired meal.
FAQ
What is Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Cream Sauce?
This dish is a flavorful combination of chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach cooked slowly in a creamy sauce, ideal for serving over pasta, rice, or potatoes.
How do I make Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Cream Sauce?
Start by seasoning the chicken and placing it in a slow cooker with garlic and chicken broth. Add sun-dried tomatoes and oil, cook on low for several hours, then stir in a creamy mixture and spinach before serving.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, frozen chicken is acceptable. However, ensure it reaches the appropriate temperature before serving, as cooking times may need to be adjusted.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Cream Sauce?
This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, providing a variety of options to suit your craving.
How long does Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Cream Sauce last in the fridge?
Properly stored in an airtight container, it should last 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Cream Sauce
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs Both options work wonderfully; thighs provide richer flavor.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt To season the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper To season the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning To enhance flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes Optional, adjust to taste.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth Forms the base for the sauce.
- 1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 1 tablespoon sun-dried tomato oil From the jar, adds extra flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream Or half-and-half for a lighter option.
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 5 ounces baby spinach Adds color and nutrition.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch Optional, for thicker sauce.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley For serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Cooked pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or cauliflower mash For serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken with kosher salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and optional crushed red pepper flakes.
- Place the chicken in the slow cooker and add minced garlic and chicken broth. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and a tablespoon of sun-dried tomato oil.
Cooking
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours until the chicken reaches 165°F.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together heavy cream and softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add this mixture to the slow cooker with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Optionally, mix cornstarch with water and add for a thicker sauce. Cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes on low.
- Stir in the baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 1 to 2 minutes.
Serving
- Serve over cooked pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, and garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley.
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