Description
This Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Thighs recipe features tender, juicy chicken cooked with aromatic garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and creamy sauce. Perfect for an effortless meal, the slow cooker method infuses the chicken with comforting Tuscan flavors, making it a delicious and family-friendly dinner option.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2-2.5 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 4 cups fresh spinach
Liquids
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
Optional
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Generously season the chicken thighs on all sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, massaging the herbs into the skin to maximize flavor absorption.
- Brown the Chicken (Optional): Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step enhances flavor and texture, but can be skipped if short on time.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Place the browned or raw chicken thighs into the slow cooker. Add minced garlic, sliced onions, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes evenly over the chicken.
- Add Chicken Broth: Pour 1 cup of chicken broth into the slow cooker, enough to cover the bottom and create steam to keep the ingredients moist during cooking.
- Cook Slowly: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is tender.
- Add Cream and Spinach: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and fresh spinach. The heat from the slow cooker will wilt the spinach and create a creamy sauce.
- Serve: Optionally sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving for an authentic Tuscan finish.
Notes
- For extra flavor, browning the chicken skin adds a nice texture but is not mandatory.
- Adjust salt according to preference or dietary needs.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Serve the dish over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
