Pin
Advertisement
Easy Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken brings the warmth of rustic Italian cooking to your family table with hardly any effort. Tender chicken simmers in fragrant herbs and a creamy sauce, while spinach and sun dried tomatoes add bursts of color and flavor. This is my go-to dish when I want something that feels special but lets the slow cooker do the work.
My family always asks for seconds whenever I make this. I first tried it for a Sunday dinner and now it is a regular favorite, especially when I need a cozy meal.
Ingredients
Advertisement
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Choose plump chicken and trim any fat for the best texture
- Jarred minced garlic: Adds rich flavor without extra prep Use fresh if you prefer
- Italian seasoning blend: Look for one with oregano and basil as the top ingredients
- Chicken stock: Low sodium keeps the sauce from getting too salty Choose a flavorful brand
- Sun dried tomatoes: Use oil packed for a velvety bite or rehydrate dried ones in warm water
- Cornstarch or tapioca flour: Just a little thickens up the sauce nicely Tapioca flour works for a grain free option
- Heavy cream: Gives the sauce its silkiness and keeps it rich Choose fresh cream with no additives
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated gives more flavor and melts in smoothly
- Fresh spinach: Adds color and nutrition Baby spinach is tender with no prep
- Optional chopped basil or parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of fresh flavor Pick bright green leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Cut each chicken breast into even pieces about four ounces each so they cook evenly and fit in the slow cooker nicely
- Layer the Base Flavors:
- Place chicken pieces in the slow cooker and scatter on the garlic and seasoning then pour in chicken stock and nestle sun dried tomatoes around the chicken
- Slow Cook to Perfection:
- Cover and set the cooker on high for two to three hours or on low for four to six hours Check that the chicken is tender and has reached a temperature of one hundred sixty five degrees This long gentle cooking keeps it juicy
- Finish the Creamy Sauce:
- Mix cornstarch or tapioca flour with two tablespoons water until smooth Pour this into the slow cooker along with heavy cream Parmesan and spinach Stir to combine and cover again Let the sauce heat and thicken for another thirty to forty five minutes until the spinach is wilted
- Serve and Garnish:
- Pile the creamy chicken over rice noodles mashed potatoes or your favorite base Top with chopped basil or parsley and extra Parmesan and serve right away
Pin
Advertisement
Sun dried tomatoes are always my favorite part because their sweet tart flavor really makes the sauce shine. I remember making a double batch for a birthday dinner and everyone happily came back for more.
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave stirring often for best texture. If the sauce thickens too much add a splash of cream or broth to loosen.
Advertisement
Ingredient Substitutions
Chicken thighs work well for extra tenderness. Use half and half instead of heavy cream for a lighter result. If you are out of sun dried tomatoes try roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for a similar punch of flavor. For dairy free needs use canned coconut milk and vegan Parmesan.
Pin
Serving Suggestions
Advertisement
This chicken is delicious over fluffy rice creamy mashed potatoes or twirled with pasta. It is also great with garlic bread to soak up every bit of sauce. For a lighter meal serve with a salad of crisp greens and lemony dressing.
Tuscan Chicken Roots
Tuscan chicken is inspired by the simple comforting flavors of country cooking in central Italy. The real stars are pantry ingredients like garlic spinach and tomatoes set off by a creamy sauce. I love how this American version brings those flavors together all in one cozy family meal.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for extra juiciness and rich flavor. Adjust cooking time as needed for doneness.
- → What can I serve alongside this dish?
This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy sauce.
- → When should I add the spinach?
Add the fresh spinach near the end of cooking to wilt it without overcooking, preserving its texture and color.
- → How can I thicken the sauce?
Use a cornstarch or tapioca flour slurry added during the last 30-45 minutes to achieve a thicker, creamier sauce.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days and reheat gently before serving.
- → Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use your favorite unsweetened dairy-free cream alternative and leave out the Parmesan or choose a plant-based substitute.