Description
Yes, it absolutely can! With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, Slow-Cooked Italian Chicken delivers tender, juicy chicken simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce loaded with herbs, spices, and vegetables.
Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts (4 boneless, skinless): Lean protein that stays tender when slow-cooked.
- Reduced-Sodium Chicken Broth (14.5 oz can): Forms the base of the sauce and adds depth.
- Stewed Tomatoes (14.5 oz can, cut up): Adds texture and rich tomato flavor.
- Tomato Sauce (8 oz can): Creates a smooth, cohesive sauce.
- Green Pepper (1, chopped): Adds sweetness and crunch.
- Green Onion (1, chopped): Mild onion flavor with a pop of freshness.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced): Adds classic Italian flavor.
- Chili Powder (3 tsp): Brings gentle heat and smoky undertones.
- Ground Mustard (1 tsp): Adds tang and brightness.
- Black Pepper (½ tsp): Basic seasoning.
- Garlic Powder & Onion Powder (¼ tsp each): Enhance the overall flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour (⅓ cup) + Cold Water (½ cup): Thickens the sauce at the end.
- Hot Cooked Pasta: Soaks up all the delicious sauce.
- Optional Garnish: Grated Parmesan and fresh basil for a flavorful finish.
Instructions
- Add Chicken to Slow Cooker:
- Place chicken breasts in a 3-quart slow cooker.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a bowl, combine chicken broth, stewed tomatoes, tomato sauce, chopped green pepper, green onion, minced garlic, chili powder, mustard, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Pour Sauce Over Chicken:
- Stir the mixture and pour it over the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Cook:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Remove Chicken:
- Once cooked, remove chicken and keep warm.
- Thicken the Sauce:
- Transfer cooking juices to a large saucepan and skim off any fat.
- In a small bowl, whisk flour and cold water until smooth.
- Stir into the saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Cook and stir for 2 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
- Serve:
- Serve chicken over hot pasta.
- Spoon thickened sauce over the top.
- Garnish with Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.