Looking for healthy crockpot chicken recipes to make mealtime a breeze? You’ve landed in the right place! We’re diving into delicious and simple ways to enjoy flavorful, nutritious chicken without spending hours in the kitchen. Creamy Tuscan Crockpot Chicken- From comforting classics to zesty new flavors, these recipes will transform your slow cooker into your new best friend.
What is Creamy Tuscan Crockpot Chicken?
Creamy Tuscan Crockpot Chicken– where did that name even sprout from? Was it a dreamy Italian chef who first conjured this up, perhaps under the Tuscan sun? Or maybe it was just a clever cook, gazing longingly at a jar of sun-dried tomatoes, whispering, “I shall conquer chicken with cream!” The truth may be lost to the sands of time, but one thing’s for sure: ‘the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach’, and this dish might just win over the entire family! So, are you ready to channel your inner Italian chef and create a creamy masterpiece? Go on, give it a try!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tuscan Crockpot Chicken:
This Creamy Tuscan Crockpot Chicken is a winner for so many reasons! First off, it delivers a restaurant-quality flavor without the restaurant price tag. Making it at home means you control the ingredients and can save a bundle. Secondly, the combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach creates a flavor explosion in every bite. Think of it as a hug in a bowl! If you love flavorful, easy dinners, you should also try our Crockpot Salsa Chicken – another simple, delicious option! Ready to ditch the takeout and whip up this creamy delight?
Key Ingredients for Creamy Tuscan Crockpot Chicken:
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this Tuscan dream to life:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (10-ounce) jar sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Crockpot Chicken:
This dish is unbelievably easy! It’s a simple dump-and-go recipe that rewards you with tender, flavorful chicken in a luxurious creamy sauce. The prep time is practically non-existent, and it cooks low and slow to perfection. Get ready to enjoy a restaurant-worthy meal without the fuss – it takes about 4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot. Make sure they are evenly distributed for even cooking.
- Add Flavor: Sprinkle the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the chicken.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Broth: Add the drained sun-dried tomatoes and chicken broth to the crockpot.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks.
- Add Cream and Spinach: Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach. Let it cook for another 15-20 minutes, or until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Parmesan Shower: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce.
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese.
What to Serve Creamy Tuscan Crockpot Chicken With:
Creamy Tuscan Crockpot Chicken is delicious on its own, but it shines even brighter when paired with the right sides! Consider serving it over a bed of:
- Pasta: Fettuccine, linguine, or penne are classic choices that soak up the creamy sauce.
- Rice: Fluffy white rice or brown rice is a great alternative for a gluten-free option.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes add another layer of comfort to this already satisfying meal.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables: A side of steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus adds a healthy touch and balances the richness of the dish.
Top Tips for Perfecting Creamy Tuscan Crockpot Chicken:
Want to take your Creamy Tuscan Crockpot Chicken to the next level? Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the flavor of the dish. Use good-quality sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the sauce before adding the spinach and Parmesan cheese. Adjust the salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to your liking.
- Thicken the Sauce (If Needed): If the sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stirring it into the crockpot during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Add a Kick: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the crockpot.
- Cream Cheese Substitute: If you want a tangier flavor, substitute half of the heavy cream with cream cheese. Add a small chunk of cream cheese or use a low fat alternative.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Leftovers are a treasure! Here’s how to store and reheat Creamy Tuscan Crockpot Chicken:
Storing: Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: You can reheat the chicken in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the crockpot.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
- Stovetop: Heat the chicken in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to thin the sauce.
- Crockpot: Reheat the chicken in the crockpot on low for 1-2 hours, or until heated through.
Freezing: To freeze Creamy Tuscan Crockpot Chicken, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Be aware that the sauce may separate slightly after thawing, but it will still taste delicious.
Final Thoughts:
Creamy Tuscan Crockpot Chicken is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful, comforting, and healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The simplicity of the slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a dish that’s sure to impress. So, give this recipe a try and discover why it’s become a family favorite! Using your crockpot chicken recipes healthy diet can be easily kept up with.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can, but it’s best to thaw them completely before adding them to the crockpot for more even cooking and safety
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken?
A: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for this recipe, you can use bone-in chicken thighs. Just increase the cooking time slightly and ensure the chicken is cooked through.
Q: Can I use low-fat cream?
A: Yes, you can substitute light cream or half-and-half, but the sauce may not be as thick or creamy.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or onions would all be delicious additions to this dish. Add them to the crockpot along with the sun-dried tomatoes.
Q: How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
A: Don’t overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Also, make sure there’s enough liquid in the crockpot.
Q: Can I make this recipe in the Instant Pot?
A: Yes, you can! Follow the same steps as above, but cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes. Then, stir in the heavy cream, spinach, and Parmesan cheese as directed.
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest