Crockpot Tuscan Chicken

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Imagine a cozy evening, the scent of succulent chicken mingling with sun-kissed tomatoes and the fresh bite of basil wafting through your kitchen. You’re all set for an unforgettable meal. But what to pair it with?

Crockpot Tuscan Chicken shines best alongside a few classic choices. Crusty bread for dipping into the creamy sauce is a must. You might also serve it with a vibrant side salad featuring mixed greens, tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette.

If you’re feeling extra generous, whip up some garlic mashed potatoes to soak up the delightful sauce. For a lighter touch, consider pairing the chicken with a quinoa pilaf, which not only complements it but also boosts the meal’s nutritional profile.

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As the sun dips below the horizon, and after a long day, there’s something rewarding about preparing a meal that warms the soul. Enter the stars of the show: my trusty Crockpot and this tantalizing recipe for Tuscan Chicken.

This dish doesn’t just fill the stomach; it fills the room with warmth and brings everyone together. The best part? It practically makes itself! I’m here to share everything you need to know to save you time and elevate your dinner game.

What is Crockpot Tuscan Chicken?

This dish is a delightful blend of tender chicken breasts slow-cooked in a rich and creamy sauce made from heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan cheese, which adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.

Imagine the comfort of Italian cuisine wrapped in the ease of a slow cooker. It’s a recipe that celebrates the simplicity of ingredients while delivering extravagant results.

What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?

Crockpot Tuscan Chicken bursts with flavor. It’s creamy yet vibrant, marrying the richness of heavy cream with the bright, tangy notes of sun-dried tomatoes.

The Italian seasoning blends seamlessly with the subtle warmth of paprika, while the spinach adds a hint of earthiness that rounds out the dish. Each bite is a delightful contrast: tender, juicy chicken enveloped in a velvety sauce with a peppery finish. Simply divine!

What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Crockpot Tuscan Chicken?

What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity without sacrificing taste. While many recipes lean heavily on pre-packaged sauces and additives, I use whole ingredients you can readily find in your kitchen.

This Crockpot Tuscan Chicken focuses on real flavor, minimizing fuss. The step of incorporating a starch (cornstarch) to bind the sauce creates a homestyle quality that is often overlooked. You’ll be excited to taste a dish that feels like a hug, all while knowing it’s healthy and guilt-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this Italian masterpiece, gather the following ingredients:

For the Sauce:

1 cup heavy cream: This creamy base is essential for a lush texture.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: To thicken the sauce to creamy perfection.
2 teaspoons minced garlic: Adds a kick and depth to the dish.
¼ teaspoon salt: A little seasoning goes a long way.
⅛ teaspoon black pepper: A bit of warmth.
⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: These provide a sweet, tangy flavor burst.
¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Richness meets nutty flavor.
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped: A boost of color and nutrition.

For the Chicken:

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5-2 lbs): The main event!
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that sings “Italian.”
¼ teaspoon paprika: Adds warmth without overpowering.
⅛ teaspoon black pepper: For that gentle kick.

Step by Step Directions

Ready to create this culinary delight? Let me guide you through each step.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin your flavorful journey by prepping the ingredients. Chop the sun-dried tomatoes. If you’re using whole ones, just slice them into generous pieces. Rinse and chop the spinach if it isn’t pre-packaged. You want those vibrant greens ready to go.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Take your chicken breasts and place them on a cutting board. Sprinkle a generous half teaspoon of salt, half teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of paprika and black pepper over each breast. Rub it in with your fingers. Trust me; the more love you put into seasoning, the more flavor you get!

Step 3: Set Up Your Crockpot

Place your seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom of your Crockpot. They will serve as the hearty foundation of your meal.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, cornstarch, minced garlic, salt, pepper, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Watch as it transforms into a beautiful creamy mixture. Pour this over the chicken in the Crockpot. Don’t worry about mixing it all; it will blend beautifully as it cooks.

Step 5: Add the Spinach

Toss the chopped spinach on top of the creamy goodness already bustling in your Crockpot. This adds color and nutrition, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t want a pop of green in their dish?

Step 6: Cook

Set your Crockpot on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Portion your workload while you sip a glass of wine or relax with a good book. As the aromas fill your kitchen, you’ll be tempted to sneak a taste before it even finishes cooking.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the cooking time has elapsed, the chicken should be utterly tender. Use two forks to shred the chicken in the sauce and stir everything together. Serve it hot, and watch the smiles spread across your table.

Tips On Making Crockpot Tuscan Chicken

Here are five expert tips to elevate your cooking experience:

Use Quality Ingredients: The key to unlocking the best flavor is using fresh, high-quality ingredients. It makes a significant difference.
Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Everyone’s palate is unique. Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust the flavors to suit your liking.
Don’t Skip the Cornstarch: It’s essential for achieving that creamy, enveloping texture.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to sneak in some zucchini or mushrooms. They absorb the sauce beautifully and add more nutrition.
Let Leftover Sauce Shine: If you have leftover sauce, it makes a great pasta dressing. Toss it with some fettuccine for a delightful meal.

Nutrition Information

Let’s break down what you’re actually consuming with this dish.

Serving Size: 1 Chicken Breast with Sauce
Calories: 480
Protein: 40 g
Carbohydrates: 5 g
Fat: 35 g
Fiber: 1 g

This recipe is packed with protein, making it an excellent option for those looking to fuel their bodies healthily.

How Can I Store This Crockpot Tuscan Chicken?

Preserving your leftover deliciousness is easy! Store any remaining chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. When reheating, a gentle warm-up in the microwave works best. Avoid boiling it on the stove, as this can make the chicken tough.

If You’re Missing Ingredients, Here are Some Substitutes

Don’t panic if you find yourself short of some ingredients. Here are some potential substitutes that can save the day:

Heavy Cream: Greek Yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative. It provides creaminess without all the fat.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Fresh Cherry Tomatoes can step in. Just roast them first to bring out their sweetness.
Spinach: Kale can replace spinach in a pinch. Just chop it finely; it provides that hearty green touch.
Chicken: Pork Tenderloin or Tofu for a vegetarian option can work well in this recipe, too.