Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dish: crockpot tuscan garlic chicken. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! The moment you walk into your kitchen and catch that delightful aroma of garlic and Italian herbs wafting through the air, you know something special is happening. I love how easy it is to throw everything in the crockpot and let it do its magic. Seriously, you can set it and forget it! The chicken turns out so tender, swimming in a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. It’s a perfect weeknight meal, but it feels fancy enough for a special dinner too! I guarantee this recipe will become a beloved staple in your home just like it is in mine!
Ingredients List
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup fresh spinach, packed
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Instructions
- First things first, place your boneless, skinless chicken breasts right into the crockpot. It’s so straightforward—just lay them in there and feel like a kitchen rockstar!
- In a separate bowl, grab your heavy cream, chicken broth, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s all nicely combined. This mixture is where the magic begins!
- Now, pour that luscious mixture over the chicken in the crockpot. Trust me, your chicken will love this creamy bath!
- Next, sprinkle the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach on top. I like to press them down a little so they soak up all that goodness as it cooks.
- Cover your crockpot and set it to cook low for about 6 to 7 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can set it on high for 3 to 4 hours, but low and slow really lets those flavors meld beautifully!
- When it’s almost time to eat, stir in the grated parmesan cheese about 15 minutes before serving. This will add that extra creaminess that makes it so dreamy.
- Once it’s done, serve it up over pasta or rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. You won’t believe how good it tastes!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the scoop on the estimated nutritional values for my crockpot tuscan garlic chicken. Keep in mind that these are just estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use. But this should give you a good idea of what you’re cooking up!
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Sodium: 800mg
This dish is packed with protein, making it not just delicious but also quite filling! Perfect for a satisfying meal after a long day. Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Prep: Seriously, just toss everything in the crockpot and let it work its magic. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without the fuss!
- Rich, Creamy Flavor: The combination of garlic, heavy cream, and parmesan creates a sauce that’s to die for! It’s like a little taste of Italy right in your kitchen.
- Healthful Ingredients: With lean chicken and fresh spinach, you’re getting a nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor. Plus, it’s low in carbs!
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with pasta, rice, or even a fresh salad. You can easily customize the sides to suit your mood or dietary needs!
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish! It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone to the table.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy leftovers for days. It reheats wonderfully, so you can savor those flavors all week long!
- Impressive Enough for Guests: Serve it at dinner parties or special occasions, and your friends will think you’re a gourmet chef. It looks and tastes fancy!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your crockpot tuscan garlic chicken turns out absolutely perfect every time! Here are my tried-and-true tips that I swear by:
- Don’t Skip the Searing: If you have a little extra time, consider searing the chicken breasts in a skillet before adding them to the crockpot. This adds a lovely depth of flavor and helps lock in moisture!
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Taste the broth mixture before pouring it over the chicken. If it seems a bit bland, add a pinch more seasoning. Remember, the chicken absorbs a lot of the flavor!
- Adjust the Cooking Time: If you’re cooking on low, 6 to 7 hours is usually perfect, but every crockpot is different. Check your chicken for doneness around the 5-hour mark. If it’s shredding easily with a fork, it’s ready to go!
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh spinach and quality sun-dried tomatoes if you can. They really elevate the dish and provide that fresh Tuscan flavor you’re aiming for!
- Don’t Rush the Cheese: Stir in the parmesan cheese towards the end of the cooking time. This helps it melt perfectly and gives that creamy finish without clumping!
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, try adding them to a wrap or salad the next day. The flavors meld even more overnight, making it a delicious lunch option!
- Experiment with Herbs: While Italian seasoning is fantastic, feel free to swap in fresh herbs like basil or thyme for an extra layer of flavor. Just add them toward the end so they don’t lose their freshness!
With these tips, you’ll be a crockpot pro in no time, and your crockpot tuscan garlic chicken will be a hit at every meal!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to mix things up a bit with your crockpot tuscan garlic chicken, I’ve got some fun variations for you! These tweaks can add new flavors or make the dish fit your personal taste. Let’s dive in!
- Herb Swap: Instead of Italian seasoning, try using fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. Just chop them up and toss them in for a fragrant twist!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for a bit of heat. It’s a great way to spice up your chicken and wake up those taste buds!
- Vegetable Medley: Feel free to add more veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just chop them up and throw them in with the spinach for added nutrition and color.
- Creamy Spin: For a richer sauce, consider stirring in a dollop of cream cheese or mascarpone cheese along with the parmesan. It’ll give you an even creamier texture!
- Sun-Dried Tomato Substitute: If you’re not a fan of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh cherry tomatoes work beautifully too! They’ll burst with flavor as they cook down.
- Cheese Variety: Swap out the parmesan for feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. Each cheese brings its own unique flavor that can transform the dish!
- Whole Grain Goodness: Serve it over quinoa or farro instead of pasta or rice for a healthier grain option that’s packed with fiber!
- Protein Swap: You can easily switch the chicken for turkey breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time as needed!
These variations keep the essence of the dish while allowing you to personalize it to your heart’s content. Get creative and make it your own! I can’t wait to hear which version you end up loving the most!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your crockpot tuscan garlic chicken, the possibilities are endless! I love to serve it over a hearty bed of pasta, like fettuccine or penne, which soaks up that creamy sauce beautifully. It’s like a match made in heaven! If you’re in the mood for something lighter, fluffy white rice or a wholesome quinoa can also be fantastic options. They’ll balance out the richness of the dish while providing some nice texture.
But wait, there’s more! You can’t go wrong with a fresh garden salad on the side. Just toss together some crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess and add a refreshing touch. If you want to elevate it even further, consider adding some roasted vegetables or a crusty piece of garlic bread to scoop up every last bit of that delicious sauce!
And for those who really want to impress, serve it with a glass of white wine or a sparkling water infused with lemon. It’s the perfect way to round out your meal and make it feel extra special. No matter how you choose to serve it, trust me, your crockpot tuscan garlic chicken will shine as the star of the dinner table!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk leftovers! If you’re lucky enough to have some crockpot tuscan garlic chicken left after dinner, you’ll want to store it properly to keep that delicious flavor intact. First, let it cool down a bit before transferring it to an airtight container. This way, you won’t trap any steam inside, which can make your yummy chicken soggy—yuck!
You can store your leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat only what you plan to eat, so the rest stays fresh. When you’re ready to dig in, I recommend reheating it gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or a little cream to the pan to keep it from drying out while warming it up. Stir occasionally until it’s heated through!
If you’re in a hurry, you can also pop it in the microwave. Just transfer a portion to a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely (to avoid splatters!), and heat it in short bursts, stirring in between, until it’s warmed to your liking.
Now, if you want to keep it for a longer time, you can freeze your crockpot tuscan garlic chicken. Just let it cool completely, then portion it out into freezer-safe containers. It’ll last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat as mentioned above. You’ll get to relive that creamy, garlicky goodness even after the initial meal!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can throw frozen chicken breasts right into the crockpot. Just remember that it might take a bit longer to cook, so keep an eye on it and check for doneness. You want it to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C)!
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No worries! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even a combination of milk and a bit of melted butter for a lighter version. The sauce will still be delicious, just a tad less rich!
Can I add other vegetables?
For sure! Feel free to get creative with veggies. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even broccoli can add great flavor and nutrition. Just chop them up and toss them in with the spinach!
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when it’s super tender and shreds easily with a fork. If you have a meat thermometer, aim for that 165°F (75°C) mark. Checking around the 5-hour mark on low is a good idea!
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble everything in the crockpot the night before, store it in the fridge, and cook it the next day. Just don’t forget to set your crockpot timer!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, transfer it to freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw in the fridge before reheating!
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While parmesan is delicious, feel free to swap it for mozzarella, feta, or even goat cheese for a fun twist. Each cheese will bring its own flavor to the dish!
What should I serve with this crockpot tuscan garlic chicken?
This dish is versatile! Serve it over pasta, rice, or quinoa for a complete meal. A fresh salad or roasted veggies on the side would also complement it beautifully!
Crockpot Tuscan Garlic Chicken: 7 Irresistibly Creamy Tips
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A creamy and flavorful crockpot dish featuring chicken, garlic, and Tuscan flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup spinach, fresh
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- In a bowl, mix heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and spinach on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Stir in parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
- Serve with pasta or rice for a complete meal.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: crockpot tuscan garlic chicken, slow cooker chicken, italian chicken recipe
