There’s something magical about coming home to the inviting aroma of a slow-cooked meal. This Crockpot Tuscan Chicken is the answer to busy days, chilly nights, or anytime you’re craving a hearty dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Packed with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor right from your slow cooker.
Let me tell you a little secret—this dish became a weeknight staple in my home after one too many days of juggling work and everything in between. The simplicity of tossing everything into a crockpot and letting it work its magic is a lifesaver. Bonus? The leftovers taste just as heavenly the next day.
Ready to give it a try? Let’s get started!
Why This Recipe is a Winner
First, let’s talk about the irresistible combo of flavors. You’ve got garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning creating a fragrant base, sun-dried tomatoes adding tangy sweetness, and Parmesan bringing that creamy, savory goodness we all love. Add in spinach for a pop of freshness, and you’ve got a dish that’s as wholesome as it is indulgent.
And did I mention the versatility? This Crockpot Tuscan Chicken pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or even a simple side of crusty bread. Trust me, every bite is comfort food bliss.
Getting Started: Prepping the Chicken
The key to this recipe is seasoning the chicken just right. Start by laying out your four boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if you prefer a richer flavor). Generously sprinkle them with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
This blend of spices not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also creates the foundation for a mouthwatering sauce. Once seasoned, place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot.
Pro Tip: Don’t skimp on the spices! Even if you’re tempted to skip a step, trust me when I say this seasoning mix makes all the difference.
Adding the Liquid Gold
Now it’s time to build that creamy sauce. Pour a cup of chicken broth over the chicken to keep everything moist and tender during the cooking process. Next, add a cup of heavy cream. This is where the magic begins—it’s the base for that luscious, velvety sauce you’ll be dreaming about.
Top it off with a half-cup of sun-dried tomatoes. Make sure to use the kind that’s not packed in oil; their slightly chewy texture holds up beautifully during the slow cooking process, blending into the sauce with just the right hint of sweetness.
Set It and Forget It
Cover the crockpot, set it on low for 6-7 hours (or high for 3-4 hours if you’re short on time), and let it do its thing. As the chicken slowly cooks, it absorbs all those delicious flavors, becoming perfectly tender and juicy.
There’s something so satisfying about knowing dinner is already taken care of while you go about your day. Plus, no need to babysit the pot—your crockpot has got it handled!
Finishing Touches for the Ultimate Crockpot Tuscan Chicken
Alright, your kitchen is already smelling like heaven, thanks to the slow cooker working its magic. But we’re not done yet! The final steps take this dish from amazing to unforgettable. Let’s dive into the next phase of this creamy Tuscan chicken masterpiece.
Time to Add Spinach and Cheese
With about 30 minutes left on the cooking timer, it’s time to give this dish a vibrant, fresh twist. Grab 2-3 cups of fresh baby spinach and a half-cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
Here’s what to do:
- Open the crockpot and stir the spinach into the creamy sauce. Don’t worry if it seems like a lot of spinach—it wilts down beautifully in just a few minutes, blending perfectly into the dish.
- Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top, giving the sauce a rich, nutty flavor boost.
This step is where the dish truly transforms. The spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients, while the Parmesan melts into the cream sauce, creating that luxurious, velvety texture we all love.
Pro Tip: If you’re feeling fancy, swap the Parmesan with freshly grated Pecorino Romano for an extra sharp, savory kick.
Optional: Thicken the Sauce
Love your sauces on the thicker side? No problem! This recipe includes an easy option for thickening the sauce to your desired consistency.
Here’s how:
- Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl to create a slurry.
- Stir the slurry into the crockpot about 10-15 minutes before serving.
- Allow the sauce to cook a bit longer to thicken up.
This step is completely optional but worth it if you plan to serve the dish over pasta or rice and want a sauce that clings beautifully to every bite.
How to Serve Crockpot Tuscan Chicken
When it’s time to serve, the possibilities are endless. Here are a few of my favorite ways to enjoy this creamy creation:
- Over Pasta: Ladle the chicken and sauce over your favorite pasta, like fettuccine or penne. The sauce coats the noodles perfectly, creating a restaurant-worthy meal.
- With Rice: For a gluten-free option, spoon the dish over fluffy white rice or nutty brown rice.
- Mashed Potatoes: This combo is pure comfort food—rich, creamy chicken paired with buttery mashed potatoes is a match made in heaven.
- Crusty Bread: Keep it simple and let the sauce shine by serving it alongside slices of crusty bread. Perfect for soaking up every last drop of that Parmesan cream.
Pro Tip: Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and an added layer of freshness. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference!
Variations to Make It Your Own
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few ideas to mix it up:
- Add Protein: Toss in cooked bacon crumbles or diced sausage for an extra layer of flavor.
- Boost the Veggies: Add mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or cherry tomatoes for a veggie-packed version.
- Go Keto-Friendly: Serve the chicken with a side of roasted cauliflower or zucchini noodles to keep it low-carb and delicious.
This dish is already packed with bold, creamy flavors, but feel free to get creative and make it your own.
FAQs and Final Thoughts on Crockpot Tuscan Chicken
You’ve made it to the final stretch! Your Crockpot Tuscan Chicken is ready to steal the show at your dinner table. Before we wrap things up, let’s tackle some common questions to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic option for this recipe. They’re slightly richer and more tender, making them a great alternative.
2. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach works in a pinch. Make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the crockpot.
3. How can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but still creamy and delicious.
4. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble everything in the crockpot and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, pop it into the slow cooker and let it do its magic.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce if needed.
6. Can I freeze Crockpot Tuscan Chicken?
Yes! This dish freezes well. Transfer the cooled chicken and sauce to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
7. What other sides pair well with this dish?
In addition to pasta, rice, and bread, roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli make a great pairing. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette is also a fresh complement.
Wrapping It Up: Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crockpot Tuscan Chicken isn’t just a meal—it’s a celebration of creamy, comforting flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a dinner party, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and a trusty slow cooker, you’ll have a dish that tastes like it’s been simmering on the stove for hours. Plus, the versatility means you can serve it in countless ways to suit your preferences.
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Crockpot Tuscan Chicken
- Author: David
- Total Time: 6-7 hours
Description
This Crockpot Tuscan Chicken is a rich and creamy dish featuring tender chicken breasts slow-cooked with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. It’s a simple, set-it-and-forget-it meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (not packed in oil)
- 2–3 cups fresh baby spinach
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Place them in the bottom of your crockpot.
2️⃣ Add the liquids:
Pour the chicken broth over the chicken. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and heavy cream.
3️⃣ Cook:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
4️⃣ Add spinach and cheese:
About 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh baby spinach. Allow the spinach to wilt and the cheese to melt into the sauce.
5️⃣ Optional thickening:
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water to form a slurry. Stir it into the crockpot and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6️⃣ Serve:
Serve the creamy Tuscan chicken over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or alongside crusty bread. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Notes
- Protein options: Substitute chicken breasts with boneless thighs for juicier meat.
- Vegetarian version: Replace chicken with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth.
- Make ahead: This dish reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-6