Easy Crockpot Tuscan Garlic Chicken With Spinach And Sun-Dried Tomatoes
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to dinner. That’s why I’m excited to share my Easy Crockpot Tuscan Garlic Chicken With Spinach And Sun-Dried Tomatoes. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. Imagine coming home to the rich aroma of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes wafting through your kitchen. It’s the perfect solution for those hectic days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Crockpot Tuscan Garlic Chicken
This crockpot garlic chicken is a game-changer for busy nights. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to toss everything in the crockpot and forget about it. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that tastes like you spent hours cooking. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze. You’ll love how this meal brings your family together around the table, savoring every bite!
Ingredients for Easy Crockpot Tuscan Garlic Chicken
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! They cook up tender and juicy.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: These little gems add a burst of tangy flavor and a pop of color.
- Fresh spinach: A nutritious addition that wilts beautifully, bringing a vibrant green to the dish.
- Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the meal with a warm, aromatic essence that’s simply irresistible.
- Chicken broth: This adds depth and moisture, ensuring your chicken stays succulent.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that transports your taste buds straight to Tuscany.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in this dish.
- Heavy cream: This creamy finish makes the sauce rich and luxurious. For a lighter option, consider using coconut milk.
Feel free to get creative! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. If you’re looking for a quick source for these ingredients, your local grocery store or farmer’s market is a great place to start. For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where you can find them available for printing.
How to Make Easy Crockpot Tuscan Garlic Chicken
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the simple steps to create this crockpot garlic chicken masterpiece. Trust me, it’s as easy as pie!
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. Make sure they’re spread out evenly. This helps them cook uniformly. If you have time, you can season them with a pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor.
Step 2: Add the Flavorful Ingredients
Next, it’s time to layer on the goodness! Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and minced garlic right on top of the chicken. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle the Italian seasoning over everything. This is where the magic begins! The flavors will meld beautifully as they cook.
Step 3: Set the Cooking Time
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook. If you’re in a hurry, choose the high setting for 3-4 hours. If you have more time, the low setting for 6-7 hours works wonders. Either way, you’ll come home to a delicious aroma that will make your mouth water!
Step 4: Stir in the Cream
Once the cooking time is up, it’s time for the finishing touch. Carefully stir in the heavy cream. This will create a rich, creamy sauce that ties everything together. Let it heat through for about 10 minutes. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, it’s time to serve your Easy Crockpot Tuscan Garlic Chicken. You can dish it up over pasta or rice for a hearty meal. Don’t forget to drizzle some of that luscious sauce over the top. Enjoy every bite with your family, and watch their faces light up with delight!
Tips for Success
- Prep your ingredients the night before to save time in the morning.
- For extra flavor, sear the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot.
- Don’t skip the heavy cream; it makes the sauce rich and creamy.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste; everyone loves a personal touch!
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
Equipment Needed
- Crockpot: The star of the show! Any size will do, but a 6-quart is perfect for this recipe.
- Cutting board: Essential for chopping your ingredients safely.
- Knife: A sharp one makes prep a breeze.
- Measuring cups: Handy for accurate ingredient portions.
- Serving spoon: To dish out your delicious creation!
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a hearty plant-based meal.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in some grated Parmesan cheese before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
- Low-Carb Version: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of traditional pasta or rice.
Serving Suggestions
- Pasta or Rice: Serve your crockpot garlic chicken over a bed of spaghetti or fluffy rice for a filling meal.
- Crusty Bread: Pair with warm, crusty bread for dipping into that creamy sauce.
- Salad: A fresh green salad on the side adds a nice crunch and balances the richness.
- Wine: Enjoy with a glass of white wine, like Pinot Grigio, to complement the flavors.
FAQs about Easy Crockpot Tuscan Garlic Chicken
As you embark on your culinary adventure with this crockpot garlic chicken, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with helpful answers!
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can! Just remember to increase the cooking time by an hour or so. Frozen chicken will still turn out tender and delicious.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, coconut milk works beautifully. It adds a subtle sweetness and keeps the dish creamy.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. They’ll add extra flavor and nutrition to your Easy Crockpot Tuscan Garlic Chicken.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep everything the night before and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the crockpot in the morning, and you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you!
Summarizing the Joy of Easy Crockpot Tuscan Garlic Chicken
Cooking should be a joyful experience, and my Easy Crockpot Tuscan Garlic Chicken embodies that spirit. It’s not just about the delicious flavors; it’s about the moments shared around the dinner table. This dish transforms a busy evening into a cozy gathering, where laughter and stories flow as freely as the creamy sauce. With minimal effort, you create a meal that warms hearts and fills bellies. So, embrace the ease of this recipe, and let it bring a little Tuscan magic into your home. Trust me, your family will thank you for it!
PrintCrockpot garlic chicken: A simple Tuscan delight awaits!
A simple and delicious Tuscan-inspired dish made with chicken, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, cooked effortlessly in a crockpot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- Add the sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, garlic, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, stir in the heavy cream and let it heat through for an additional 10 minutes.
- Serve warm over pasta or rice, if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- This dish pairs well with crusty bread for dipping.
