The aroma of Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken wafts through the air, teasing your senses with its rich, buttery notes and the promise of savory delight. Picture tender chicken bathed in a luscious garlic cream sauce, mingling with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, creating a dish that not only warms your belly but also your soul. spicy slow cooker chicken This isn’t just food; it’s a hug on a plate, perfect for those chilly evenings when all you want is comfort and good vibes.
As I stood in my kitchen attempting to channel my inner Italian chef, I recalled the family gathering last Thanksgiving when I accidentally mistook the salt for sugar in my famous gravy. Let’s just say it was an unforgettable feast! Thankfully, this Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken won’t let you down. It’s ideal for cozy dinners or impressing guests at your next gathering without risking the taste buds of anyone involved. For more inspiration, check out this Irresistible Garlic Shrimp recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish boasts a delightful balance of flavors that meld beautifully over slow cooking.
- The ease of preparation means you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying life.
- Its creamy texture and vibrant colors make it a standout on any dinner table.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve over pasta, rice, or even with crusty bread for dipping.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: You’ll need about 3-4 chicken breasts for this recipe; feel free to adjust based on your crowd size.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves as they bring out the best flavors when roasted into the sauce.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a delightful tanginess and sweetness; try to find ones packed in oil for extra flavor.
- Fresh Spinach: Spinach wilts beautifully into the sauce, providing color and nutrients; use baby spinach for tenderness.
- Cream Cheese: This ingredient gives the dish its signature creaminess; opt for full-fat for that indulgent touch.
For the Sauce:
- Chicken Broth: A low-sodium option helps control saltiness while enhancing flavor throughout cooking.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and basil adds depth; feel free to adjust according to your taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken
Start by placing your boneless skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Give them a sprinkle of salt and pepper because we all know they deserve it—let’s not leave them feeling lonely!
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Chop up about four cloves of fresh garlic (or more if you’re feeling adventurous) and toss them on top of those lovely chicken breasts. Next, add in approximately half a cup of sun-dried tomatoes because who doesn’t love a pop of color?
Step 3: Create The Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together one cup of chicken broth with one block (8 oz) of cream cheese until combined. Pour this creamy concoction over the chicken to create that dreamy sauce we’re all here for.
Step 4: Season It Up
Sprinkle about two teaspoons of Italian seasoning across everything you want that flavor to dance through every bite!
Step 5: Set It and Forget It
Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for about six hours or high for four hours. Go binge-watch your favorite show or take a nap; you’ve earned it!
Step 6: Finish Strong
When done cooking, stir in two cups of fresh baby spinach just before serving. The heat will wilt it perfectly without losing that vibrant green!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. You can also top it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if you’re feeling fancy!
With each bite of this Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken, you’ll experience layers of deliciousness that’ll have everyone asking for seconds (or maybe thirds). Serve it over pasta or alongside crusty bread—it’s bound to become a new family favorite!
You Must Know
- This Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken offers more than just flavor; it makes dinner a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table, perfect for impressing guests or family alike.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first for that delectable golden crust, then toss it into the slow cooker with garlic, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. While it simmers to perfection, whip up some pasta or rice to serve alongside this creamy delight.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Add a splash of white wine for a zesty twist or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes if you’re feeling spicy.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of cream if it thickens too much.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Searing your chicken first enhances flavor and texture, making each bite irresistible.
- Avoid overcooking; check your chicken’s internal temperature to stay juicy.
- Don’t skimp on the garlic; it’s what makes this dish shine!
Sometimes, my kitchen turns into a comedy show when my friends try to guess what’s cooking. The look on their faces when they taste this dish is priceless it’s pure joy wrapped in creamy garlic goodness!
FAQs:
What ingredients are needed for Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken?
To make Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken, gather boneless, skinless chicken breasts, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, heavy cream, and Italian seasoning. You will also need chicken broth for added flavor. This dish benefits from the richness of Parmesan cheese, which enhances its creamy texture. chicken burrito bowls Make sure to have fresh herbs like basil or parsley for garnish. These ingredients create a delicious combination that results in a flavorful meal your family will love. You might also enjoy this Flavorful Chicken Burrito Bowls recipe.
How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken?
Cooking Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken typically takes about 4 to 6 hours on low heat or 2 to 3 hours on high heat. The cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker model and the thickness of the chicken breasts. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. Once cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before shredding or slicing. This will help retain its moisture and flavor.
Can I make Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken ahead of time. You can assemble all the ingredients in your slow cooker the night before and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, simply plug in your slow cooker and set it to cook. This makes meal prep easy and convenient. The flavors will meld beautifully as it cooks throughout the day, resulting in a rich and creamy sauce that’s perfect over pasta or rice.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken?
Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Serve it over pasta like fettuccine or penne for a comforting meal. Rice or quinoa are excellent alternatives that soak up the creamy sauce beautifully. pork chops with peach sauce For lighter options, consider serving it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad adorned with vinaigrette dressing. You can also garnish each plate with fresh herbs for added color and flavor.
Conclusion for Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken:
In summary, Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with rich flavors from garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep sessions. By using basic ingredients and allowing your slow cooker to do the work, you create a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy this creamy favorite with your choice of sides for a complete dining experience!
Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken
Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a luscious garlic cream sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and vibrant spinach. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, chopped
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker and season with salt and pepper.
- Add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes on top of the chicken.
- In a separate bowl, mix chicken broth and cream cheese until smooth; pour over the chicken.
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Stir in baby spinach just before serving until wilted.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: - For extra flavor, sear the chicken first in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. - You can substitute turkey or chickpeas for a different protein option. - Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
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