This Easy Crockpot Tuscan Garlic Chicken is a cozy dish that warms your soul! Tender chicken, creamy sauce, and healthy spinach come together for a mouthwatering meal.
Honestly, my favorite part is how easy it is to make. Just throw everything in the crockpot, let it work its magic, and you can kick back and relax! 🍗💚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this recipe as they stay tender. You can substitute with thighs if you prefer darker meat — they’re juicier!
Heavy Cream: This adds a rich creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try substituting half and half or coconut cream if you’re dairy-free.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully into the sauce. Grated Pecorino Romano will also work or try a dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They bring a wonderful tang. You could use fresh tomatoes if you have them, but you might want to sauté them first to release their flavor.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach is best since it wilts nicely. Kale is a great alternative, but you’ll want to cook it a little longer. Frozen spinach can work too, just make sure to drain it well!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Comes Out Tender?
Cooking chicken in a crockpot is a great way to keep it juicy and tender. Here’s how to achieve the best results:
- Always season your chicken well before cooking. This adds flavor upfront.
- If you have time, searing the chicken lightly first builds a deeper flavor. Don’t worry if you skip this step, your chicken will still be delicious!
- Cooking on low is ideal. It allows the chicken to cook evenly and absorb the sauce’s flavor.
- Avoid opening the lid frequently, as this lets heat escape and can affect cooking time.
- Ensure you don’t overcook. Check for doneness around the lower end of the cooking time range.
Easy Crockpot Tuscan Garlic Chicken with Spinach
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and then 4-6 hours to cook on low or 2-3 hours on high in your crockpot. You’ll spend a little time seasoning and assembling, then just let the slow cooker do its thing. Perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by lightly seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. This will help flavor the chicken perfectly as it cooks.
2. Sear the Chicken (Optional):
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step is optional, but it really enhances the flavor!
3. Add to the Crockpot:
Place the seared (or raw) chicken breasts into your crockpot, laying them flat.
4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, chicken broth, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed.
5. Pour and Cook:
Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken in the crockpot, making sure it’s well covered. Then, cover the crockpot with its lid.
6. Set the Cooker:
Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for about 2-3 hours. The chicken should be tender and cooked all the way through when it’s ready.
7. Add Fresh Spinach:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, gently stir in the fresh baby spinach. Cover the crockpot again and let the spinach wilt down into the creamy sauce.
8. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and stir it into the crockpot. Allow it to cook for a few more minutes until thickened to your liking.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Once everything is ready, serve your Tuscan garlic chicken over a bed of pasta, rice, or with some crusty bread for a truly enjoyable meal. Don’t forget to soak up that delicious creamy sauce!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just ensure they are completely cooked by increasing the cooking time. Cook on high for about 4-5 hours or low for 6-7 hours. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep the sauce nice and creamy.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty French bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a lighter option, serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad!
