If you’ve been craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s creamy, packed with Italian flavors, and so incredibly easy to prepare—all the magic happens in your slow cooker, freeing you up to enjoy the aromas and anticipation without any fuss. Tender chicken breasts braised with sun dried tomatoes, luscious cream, fresh spinach, and Parmesan create a vibrant dish that’s perfect for weeknights or impressing guests. Every bite bursts with rich, comforting flavor that transports you straight to the heart of Tuscany.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key here, but don’t worry—they are all simple staples that pack a flavorful punch. Each component plays an essential role, from the tangy sun dried tomatoes to the earthy Italian seasoning, creating a balance of color, texture, and taste.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that stays juicy and tender after slow cooking.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Adds a fragrant pungency that awakens the senses.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the dish its unmistakable Mediterranean flair.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
- 8.5 oz. sun dried tomatoes (drained and chopped): These provide a sweet, tangy depth and stunning red hues.
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken stock: Keeps the chicken moist and infuses subtle savory notes.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a rich, velvety sauce that coats every bite.
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty edge that elevates the creaminess.
- 1 cup baby spinach (chopped): Brings a fresh, green vibrancy and a tender bite to the dish.
- Fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish): A final touch of color and brightness when serving.
How to Make Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Crockpot
Start by spraying the crockpot insert generously with nonstick spray. This simple step helps prevent the luscious sauce from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. It’s the unsung hero that lets all the flavors meld beautifully without any hassle.
Step 2: Layer the Chicken and Spices
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot, then sprinkle the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper evenly over the top. These seasonings infuse the meat as it cooks, building the foundation of that classic Tuscan flavor.
Step 3: Add the Sun Dried Tomatoes and Stock
Next, scatter the chopped sun dried tomatoes over the seasoned chicken, then pour in the low-sodium chicken stock. The tomatoes will soften during cooking, releasing their rich tang, while the stock keeps everything moist and tender.
Step 4: Cook Until Perfectly Tender
Set your crockpot to high and cook for about 4 hours, or until the chicken is completely cooked through and irresistibly tender. This slow cooking melds the ingredients into a harmonious sauce and luscious texture.
Step 5: Remove Chicken and Prepare the Sauce
Carefully remove the chicken breasts and set them aside on a plate. This makes room to create the creamy, cheesy sauce that will transform this dish from good to unforgettable.
Step 6: Whisk in Cream, Parmesan, and Spinach
Whisk the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese directly into the crockpot juices until smooth and creamy. Stir in the chopped baby spinach and cook for a few minutes until the spinach is just wilted—this adds brightness and a fresh contrast to the richness.
Step 7: Return Chicken to Reheat
Finally, nestle the chicken breasts back into the crockpot with the creamy sauce, warming them through gently. This final soak ensures every bite is coated with that delightful Tuscan creaminess. Serve garnished with fresh parsley or basil to brighten the plate and your mood.
How to Serve Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil is the perfect finishing touch for the Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Recipe. Not only does it add a pop of color, but the herbal brightness beautifully balances the creamy, savory sauce.
Side Dishes
This dish begs for something to soak up its heavenly sauce. Creamy mashed potatoes, garlic-infused rice, or even a crusty loaf of bread make ideal companions. For a lighter option, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad to add texture and freshness to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Step up your presentation by plating the chicken over freshly cooked pasta or polenta. Drizzle extra sauce over the top and add a dusting of Parmesan. If you’re hosting, serve it family-style in the crockpot right at the table to keep everyone cozy and engaged around the warmth of the meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Recipe to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will last beautifully for up to 3 days, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or quick lunches that don’t skimp on flavor.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well! After cooking and cooling, portion the chicken and sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to preserve that creamy texture. Add a splash of chicken stock or cream if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe, offering a richer flavor and even more tenderness. Adjust cooking time slightly if needed, but the slow cooker does most of the work.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream?
Heavy cream gives the sauce its signature richness and velvety texture, but you can substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free version. Keep in mind the flavor and consistency will differ slightly.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
With some tweaks, yes! Swap chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms, cauliflower, or tofu and use vegetable broth in place of chicken stock. The cream and Parmesan still provide that beautiful Tuscan flavor.
What’s the best way to prevent the sauce from curdling?
Adding the cream and cheese towards the end helps keep the sauce smooth. Whisk well and avoid boiling after adding dairy. Slow, gentle heat ensures the sauce stays creamy and luscious.
Can I prepare this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes! You can adapt the Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Recipe for the Instant Pot by sautéing the garlic and chicken breasts first, then pressure cooking with the tomatoes and stock. Finish by stirring in the cream, cheese, and spinach once done.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm invitation to savor every flavorful moment with minimal effort. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant flavors, it’s destined to become one of your favorite go-to recipes. Give it a try and treat yourself to a little slice of Italian comfort right at home.
Print
Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Crockpot Tuscan Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts slow-cooked with flavorful sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, Italian seasoning, and finished with a creamy Parmesan spinach sauce. Perfect for an easy and comforting dinner, it’s rich, savory, and packed with Italian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Additional Ingredients
- 8.5 oz sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped (1 jar)
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup baby spinach, chopped
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crockpot: Spray the crockpot insert with nonstick spray to prevent sticking during cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and sprinkle minced garlic, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper evenly over them.
- Add Tomatoes and Stock: Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and pour in the low-sodium chicken stock over the chicken and seasonings.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover and cook on high for 4 hours until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender.
- Remove Chicken: Take the cooked chicken breasts out of the crockpot and set them aside temporarily.
- Make Creamy Sauce: Whisk the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the remaining juices in the crockpot. Stir in the chopped baby spinach and continue cooking until the spinach is wilted and the sauce is heated through.
- Rewarm Chicken and Serve: Return the chicken breasts to the crockpot to warm through in the creamy sauce. Serve garnished with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water before adding the cream and Parmesan.
- Serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil can be used too; just drain before chopping.
- You can substitute fresh spinach for baby spinach if preferred.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste after cooking.
