CrockPot Tuscan Garlic Chicken

Short Description

CrockPot Tuscan garlic chicken is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish featuring tender slow-cooked chicken in a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. This easy, one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a restaurant-quality dinner with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy slow-cooker meal – Just dump, set, and forget!
• Rich and creamy – A velvety garlic Parmesan sauce coats every bite.
• Perfect for meal prep – Great for leftovers and reheats beautifully.
• Family-friendly – A comforting and delicious meal everyone will love.
• Pairs well with multiple sides – Serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Garlic (minced)
• Sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• Spinach (fresh)
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Cream cheese
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
• Olive oil or butter

Directions

1. Prepare the slow cooker – Lightly grease the CrockPot with olive oil or butter.
2. Season the chicken – Sprinkle chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then place in the CrockPot.
3. Add the flavor base – Top with minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and chicken broth.
4. Slow cook – Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender.
5. Make it creamy – Stir in heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan. Cook for another 10-15 minutes until smooth and creamy.
6. Add spinach – Stir in fresh spinach and let it wilt in the sauce for 5 minutes.
7. Serve and enjoy – Spoon over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with extra Parmesan and red pepper flakes if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
• Total time: 4-6 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Low-carb/keto option – Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Extra veggies – Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes.
• Spicy version – Increase red pepper flakes or add chopped jalapeños.
• Dairy-free alternative – Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and Parmesan.
• Protein swap – Use turkey breast or shrimp instead of chicken.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours and ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

What’s the best chicken cut to use?

Chicken thighs stay juicier, but breasts work well too.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Cook on Manual/Pressure Cook for 10 minutes, then stir in the cream, cheese, and spinach.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it cook uncovered for a few minutes or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water).

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be less rich. Add a little butter for extra creaminess.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free sides.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare everything and refrigerate overnight, then cook as directed.

What can I serve with this dish?

Pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread all work well.

How do I prevent the dairy from curdling?

Use room-temperature cream and add it at the end of cooking, stirring gently.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?

Yes! But sun-dried tomatoes add more depth and concentrated flavor.

Conclusion

CrockPot Tuscan garlic chicken is a creamy, comforting, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for an easy yet elegant meal. With minimal prep and maximum taste, this slow-cooker recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Try it tonight and enjoy a rich, satisfying dinner with no stress!

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