Introduction

When it comes to easy weeknight meals that don’t sacrifice flavor for convenience, Crockpot Tuscan Chicken is a clear winner. This creamy, savory dish has become a favorite in many households due to its irresistible combination of rich Italian flavors and effortless preparation. With its silky sauce, tender chicken, and an abundance of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and spinach, this meal is not only delicious but also nutritious. Whether you’re looking for a dinner that’s perfect for entertaining guests or simply a comforting family meal, Crockpot Tuscan Chicken has something to offer everyone.

Originating from the rustic countryside of Tuscany, this dish blends the best of traditional Italian ingredients like garlic, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes with modern conveniences. Making it in a crockpot allows for all those wonderful flavors to meld together slowly, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet doesn’t require hours of hands-on time in the kitchen.

Why Make Crockpot Tuscan Chicken?

So why should you add Crockpot Tuscan Chicken to your cooking repertoire? There are plenty of reasons!

  1. Ease of Preparation: Using a crockpot makes this meal practically effortless. All you have to do is toss in the ingredients and let your slow cooker do the work while you go about your day.
  2. Rich and Creamy: The sauce in this dish is absolutely to die for. Made from heavy cream, Parmesan, and cream cheese, it’s the perfect balance of rich flavors.
  3. Wholesome Ingredients: This recipe combines lean protein from chicken, nutrient-rich spinach, and the vibrant flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, which add a slightly tangy sweetness. It’s a great way to sneak in some greens for picky eaters.
  4. Family-Friendly: Even though it boasts sophisticated flavors, this dish is kid-approved. Creamy sauces, tender chicken, and mild spinach make it approachable for the whole family.
  5. Versatile: Crockpot Tuscan Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from pasta and rice to a simple green salad, making it a flexible option for different occasions and preferences.

Crockpot Tuscan Chicken

Ingredients List for Crockpot Tuscan Chicken

To make this creamy Tuscan chicken recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and roughly chopped)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions: How to Make Crockpot Tuscan Chicken

This recipe is incredibly simple to prepare, making it a fantastic option for busy days. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you get perfect results every time:

  1. Prepare the Crockpot: Lightly coat the inside of your crockpot with olive oil or a non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Sear the Chicken (Optional): Although this step is optional, it’s worth it for extra flavor. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 2 minutes on each side, just until lightly browned. This step helps lock in the juices, though it’s perfectly fine to skip if you’re short on time.
  3. Add the Chicken and Broth: Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Pour the chicken broth over the top. This will help create a rich base for your sauce as the chicken cooks.
  4. Mix the Creamy Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, softened cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Make sure everything is well combined and smooth.
  5. Add the Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir the sun-dried tomatoes into the cream mixture. Pour this creamy tomato mixture over the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
  6. Cook on Low Heat: Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook the chicken on low for 4-6 hours. If you’re short on time, you can cook on high for 3-4 hours, but cooking on low ensures the chicken remains tender and moist.
  7. Add the Spinach: About 30 minutes before serving, lift the lid and stir in the fresh spinach. Allow the spinach to wilt in the creamy sauce.
  8. Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Before serving, season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Serve and Garnish: Once the chicken is fully cooked and the spinach has wilted, serve the dish with your choice of sides. For a bit of extra flavor and a pop of color, garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

Tips and Substitutions for Crockpot Tuscan Chicken

To make the best Crockpot Tuscan Chicken possible, here are a few extra tips and substitution suggestions:

  • Searing the Chicken: While searing the chicken before placing it in the crockpot is optional, it does add a nice depth of flavor and improves the texture. If you have a few extra minutes, it’s worth doing.
  • Lighten Up the Cream Sauce: If you want to make the dish a bit lighter, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a lower-fat cream alternative. Keep in mind that this may result in a thinner sauce.
  • No Sun-Dried Tomatoes? No problem! You can substitute with cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a slightly different flavor profile.
  • Make It Dairy-Free: If you have dietary restrictions, swap the heavy cream and cream cheese for non-dairy versions. There are plenty of excellent coconut-based creamers and dairy-free cream cheese alternatives available that will still give you a creamy texture.
  • Add Protein: Want to boost the protein content? You can add a can of drained white beans like cannellini or chickpeas in the last hour of cooking. This will also give the dish a heartier texture.

Recipe Variations

This Crockpot Tuscan Chicken recipe is incredibly versatile, and there are plenty of ways to customize it based on your preferences. Here are a few popular variations:

  • Spicy Tuscan Chicken: If you like your meals with a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream sauce. This adds a wonderful kick without overpowering the other flavors.
  • Tuscan Chicken with Pasta: For a complete meal, serve the chicken over your favorite type of pasta. The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with fettuccine or penne. You can also stir cooked pasta directly into the crockpot before serving.
  • Low-Carb Option: If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, serve the Tuscan chicken over zoodles (zucchini noodles) or cauliflower rice. This keeps the dish light but still filling.
  • Mushroom Addition: For extra earthiness, stir in a cup of sliced mushrooms along with the sun-dried tomatoes. Mushrooms add a nice umami flavor and bulk to the dish.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content for Crockpot Tuscan Chicken (per serving, based on four servings):

  • Calories: 480
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fat: 33g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 5g

Key Nutrients:

  • Chicken: A lean source of protein, providing essential amino acids for muscle repair and growth.
  • Spinach: Rich in vitamins A and C, as well as iron and fiber, spinach adds a nutritional boost to this creamy dish.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: High in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is beneficial for heart health and reduces inflammation.
  • Heavy Cream and Parmesan: While high in fat, these dairy ingredients provide calcium and healthy fats when enjoyed in moderation.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Crockpot Tuscan Chicken is ideal for meal prep as it stores and reheats well. Here are some tips for storage and serving:

  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
  • Freezing: You can freeze Crockpot Tuscan Chicken by placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Serving Suggestions: This dish is perfect served over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice. If you’re looking to keep it low-carb, cauliflower rice or sautéed vegetables make excellent pairings. Don’t forget to add some crusty bread to mop up the extra sauce!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work just as well in this recipe and may even be more tender due to their higher fat content.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. In the morning, simply add everything to the crockpot and let it cook.

3. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling? To prevent the cream sauce from curdling, make sure to cook on low heat and stir the sauce gently before serving. Using full-fat cream helps as it’s less likely to separate than low-fat versions.

Related Recipes

If you love Crockpot Tuscan Chicken, here are some other slow cooker and Italian-inspired dishes to try:

Conclusion

Crockpot Tuscan Chicken is a must-try recipe for anyone looking to combine the convenience of slow cooking with the rich, flavorful elements of Italian cuisine. Its creamy sauce, succulent chicken, and the balance of savory sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a weeknight or serving guests, this dish is sure to impress.

Try it today and let us know how it turned out for you! Feel free to explore other delicious recipes on our site, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments!