This Crockpot Tuscan Chicken is a dreamy dish filled with juicy chicken, tasty tomatoes, and creamy sauce. It’s all made in one pot, making clean-up a breeze!
Honestly, it smells so good while cooking that I often get too eager and check on it way too many times. You know the feeling! 😂
I love serving this over some fluffy pasta or with warm bread to soak up that delicious sauce. It’s simple, cozy, and perfect for a family dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the go-to for this dish. They stay juicy and absorb all the flavors well. If you’re short on time, you can go for chicken thighs as a substitute—they’re a bit richer and harder to overcook!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These tomatoes bring a wonderful depth of flavor. If you can’t find them or prefer something lighter, fresh cherry tomatoes can be used, although the taste will be different.
Fresh Spinach: Spinach adds nutrition and color. You could swap it for kale or frozen spinach. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water in the dish.
Heavy Cream: This is key for a rich and creamy sauce. If you want a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Just remember, the flavor might change a bit.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan enhances the sauce with its salty flavor. Pecorino Romano can be substituted here for a sharper taste. Nutritional yeast is a good dairy-free alternative, adding a cheesy flavor without the cheese.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Chicken?
While searing the chicken is optional, it adds great flavor and color to the dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat a skillet on medium-high heat and add a little olive oil.
- Once the oil is hot, place the chicken breasts in the pan. Sear for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the chicken and sear the other side for another 4-5 minutes.
- This step creates a delicious crust, sealing in the juices and enhancing the overall taste of your dish.
After searing, you can place the chicken directly into the crockpot with the other ingredients. Enjoy the rich flavors that develop!
How to Make Crockpot Tuscan Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (if packed in oil, drained)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil, for sautéing (optional)
- Cooked pasta (like fettuccine or spaghetti), for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crockpot Tuscan Chicken recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and either 5-6 hours on low or 2.5-3 hours on high to cook. It’s perfect for a busy day when you want to come home to a warm and inviting meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Chicken (Optional):
If you want to add an extra layer of flavor, heat a small amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear them on both sides until they are golden brown. This step is optional, but it makes the chicken taste even better!
2. Prepare the Crockpot:
In your crockpot, place the seared chicken breasts (if you seared them), then add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, along with salt and pepper. Gently stir everything together to combine the ingredients well.
3. Set the Cooking Time:
Cover your crockpot with its lid. Cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 2.5-3 hours. The chicken is done when it is cooked through and tender, making it easy to shred or cut into pieces.
4. Add the Parmesan Cheese:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, add the grated Parmesan cheese to the crockpot. Stir it in and let it melt into the sauce. If you find that the sauce is too thick for your liking, feel free to add a little more chicken broth or heavy cream until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When the cooking time is complete, serve the Tuscan chicken over your choice of cooked pasta, such as fettuccine or spaghetti. Drizzle extra sauce over the top and sprinkle more Parmesan cheese if you’d like. For a fresh touch, you can even add some herbs as a garnish. Dig in and enjoy your cozy meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just be sure to thaw it first. The best way to thaw chicken is in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed. Make sure to dry it thoroughly before searing to ensure a nice browning.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of equal parts milk and Greek yogurt. For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream or a cashew cream. Just keep in mind that substitutions may alter the flavor and texture slightly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to bring up the heat level. Stir in the spices during the cooking process, or sprinkle on top before serving for an extra kick!
