Description

Craving a rich, restaurant-worthy dish that’s bursting with Italian flavors and requires minimal effort? Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken is your answer! This indulgent recipe transforms tender chicken breasts into a creamy, savory masterpiece, infused with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan

Ingredients

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (4, ~1.5 lbs):
- Why it’s important: Lean, tender protein that absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Substitutions: Chicken thighs for juicier meat, or tofu for vegetarian (adjust cooking time to 4–5 hours on low for tofu).
Heavy Cream (1 cup):
- Why it’s important: Creates the rich, velvety base of the sauce.
- Substitutions: Half-and-half for a lighter option, or full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free (may alter flavor slightly).
Chicken Broth (½ cup):
- Why it’s important: Adds savory depth and thins the sauce slightly for slow cooking.
- Substitutions: Vegetable broth or water with a bouillon cube.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes (½ cup, chopped):
- Why it’s important: Brings tangy, sweet intensity that defines Tuscan flavors.
- Substitutions: Roasted red peppers or fresh cherry tomatoes (add in the last 30 minutes).
Fresh Spinach (2 cups):
- Why it’s important: Adds vibrant color, nutrition, and a mild earthy flavor.
- Substitutions: Baby kale, arugula, or frozen spinach (thawed and drained).
Grated Parmesan Cheese (½ cup):
- Why it’s important: Provides nutty, salty richness that thickens the sauce.
- Substitutions: Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or nutritional yeast for vegan.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced):
- Why it’s important: Infuses the sauce with warm, aromatic depth.
- Substitutions: 1 tsp garlic powder or 2 tsp garlic paste.
Italian Seasoning (1 tsp):
- Why it’s important: Adds a blend of herbaceous flavors like oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Substitutions: A mix of dried oregano and basil, or fresh herbs (1 tbsp, finely chopped).
Salt and Pepper (to taste):
- Why it’s important: Enhances the flavors of the chicken and sauce.
Fresh Basil (for garnish):
- Why it’s important: Adds a fresh, aromatic finish and vibrant color.
- Substitutions: Fresh parsley, oregano, or omit.
Cooked Pasta or Rice (for serving):
- Why it’s important: Soaks up the creamy sauce and completes the meal.
- Substitutions: Gluten-free pasta, quinoa, or zucchini noodles for low-carb.

Tip: Use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil (drained) for richer flavor, and grate Parmesan fresh for the best melt and taste.

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In the slow cooker, combine 1 cup heavy cream, ½ cup chicken broth, ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Stir to mix the liquids and seasonings evenly.
Tip: Lightly grease the slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Add the Chicken

Pat 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker in a single layer.
Spoon the cream mixture over the chicken to coat evenly.
Tip: Trim any excess fat from the chicken for a cleaner dish.

Step 3: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Check doneness at the lower end of the time to avoid overcooking, as slow cookers vary.
Tip: Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain consistent heat.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Cheese

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add 2 cups fresh spinach and ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
Stir gently to combine, allowing the spinach to wilt and the cheese to melt into the sauce.
Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning as needed.
Tip: If the sauce is too thin, stir in an extra tablespoon of Parmesan or cook uncovered on high for 10–15 minutes to thicken.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer the chicken to a serving platter or plates, whole or sliced, and spoon the creamy sauce with spinach and tomatoes over the top.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves or chopped basil.
Serve hot over cooked pasta (like fettuccine or penne) or rice.
Tip: Prepare pasta or rice just before serving to keep it fresh and avoid sogginess