Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Simple Delight

ByIsabella Hours Posted on
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 2 cups fresh baby spinach - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup chicken broth - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for added heat) - Salt and pepper to taste - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - Fresh basil leaves, for garnish The foundation of this dish starts with chicken. I like to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook evenly and stay juicy in the slow cooker. Next, we add cherry tomatoes. Their sweetness brightens the dish and adds color. Fresh baby spinach brings a nice texture and a pop of green. Cream gives it a rich base. Heavy cream works best for that dreamy, silky sauce. We also need chicken broth. It adds flavor and keeps everything moist. Garlic is a must for that savory taste. I use four cloves, minced finely. For flavor, we add Italian seasoning. It brings herbs together nicely. If you want some heat, red pepper flakes are perfect. Just half a teaspoon adds a nice kick. Don’t forget salt and pepper to taste. Finally, Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor. It melts beautifully into the sauce. For a fresh touch, garnish with basil leaves when serving. Gather all these ingredients, and you’re ready to create a simple delight! To start, season both sides of the chicken breasts well with salt and pepper. This step is key for adding great flavor. Use enough salt to coat the chicken evenly. You want to make sure that each bite is tasty. This simple seasoning will enhance the natural taste of the chicken. Next, it’s time to layer your ingredients correctly in the slow cooker. First, place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom. This keeps them moist as they cook. Then, sprinkle the halved cherry tomatoes and minced garlic over the chicken. Distributing them evenly helps all the flavors mix well. After that, carefully pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. This liquid should cover most of the chicken. It creates a rich sauce. Finally, add the Italian seasoning and optional red pepper flakes on top. These spices give your dish a lovely kick. Now, secure the lid on the slow cooker. Set it to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Cooking it low and slow makes the chicken tender and juicy. Always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety. About 30 minutes before serving, gently fold in the fresh baby spinach. This wilts it down nicely. Then, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Stir everything together for a creamy finish. Enjoy the wonderful aroma as it cooks! To make your sauce extra creamy, you can adjust the cream ratio. If you want a thicker sauce, add more heavy cream. If you prefer a lighter dish, reduce the cream and add more chicken broth. You can also use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a different texture. You can boost the flavor of your dish by adding spices and herbs. Consider using fresh thyme or oregano for a brighter taste. A dash of lemon juice can add a nice zing. If you like a bit of heat, increase the red pepper flakes. You can also mix in sun-dried tomatoes for a richer flavor. For a beautiful presentation, serve the creamy chicken in shallow bowls. Drizzle the sauce over the chicken. Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top for a nice touch. Garnish with fresh basil leaves to brighten the dish. A little cracked black pepper can also enhance the look and flavor. {{image_4}} You can switch up the chicken in this dish. Use chicken thighs for a richer flavor. They stay juicy and tender. Another option is turkey breast. It cooks well and has a mild taste. If you want beef, consider using thin cuts of flank steak. Just cut them into strips. For pork lovers, try pork tenderloin for a new twist. Each protein adds its own flavor, making the dish unique. Want a meatless version? Use hearty vegetables instead of meat. Replace the chicken with mushrooms. They add a nice texture and absorb flavors well. You can also use chickpeas for protein. They work well with creamy sauces and add a nice bite. Another option is to use tofu. Firm tofu holds its shape and soaks up the sauce wonderfully. Don't forget to add extra spices to boost the flavor! Changing up ingredients can create new tastes. Try using sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper flavor. They add a nice sweetness. You can also experiment with different herbs. Basil and oregano can change the whole feel of the dish. For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or other hot peppers. If you like a tangy taste, use lemon zest or a splash of balsamic vinegar. Each of these changes can give your creamy Tuscan chicken a fresh twist! To keep your creamy Tuscan chicken fresh, follow these steps: - Allow the chicken to cool down to room temperature. - Place it in an airtight container. - Store it in the fridge for up to four days. This way, you keep the flavors intact and prevent spoilage. When reheating, you want to keep that creamy texture. Here are two great methods: - Stovetop: Place the chicken in a pan over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to help it stay creamy. Stir often until heated through. - Microwave: Put the chicken in a microwave-safe dish. Cover it loosely with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. This helps prevent drying out. Both methods work well to keep the dish rich and smooth. Yes, you can freeze this dish! Here’s how: - Cool the chicken completely before freezing. - Use a freezer-safe container or bag. Remove as much air as possible. - Label it with the date and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge. Then, follow the reheating tips for the best results. Enjoy your meal later! Cooking time depends on your slow cooker setting. If you use the low setting, it takes about 6 to 7 hours. For the high setting, it takes about 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. This method makes the chicken tender and juicy, perfect for your meal. Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, cooking it from frozen may take longer. You should add about an hour to the cooking time. Make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it cooks through. If you use fresh chicken, it will cook more evenly and quickly. Pair this dish with various sides for a complete meal. Here are some great ideas: - Garlic bread to soak up the sauce - Steamed vegetables for a healthy touch - Rice or pasta to complement the creamy sauce - A fresh salad for a light option These sides will enhance your meal and make it more enjoyable. This blog covered how to make delicious Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken. We looked at key ingredients, like chicken, tomatoes, and spices. I shared step-by-step instructions to make cooking easy. Tips helped with taste and texture. Plus, I gave ideas for variations and storage. In the end, enjoy your cooking. With some practice, you can master this dish. Happy cooking!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with an easy recipe? Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken is just the dish you need. Packed with tasty ingredients like chicken, cherry tomatoes, and spinach, this meal delivers rich flavors with minimal effort. I’ll guide you through each step, so you can create a creamy delight that impresses your family or friends. Let’s dive into this simple, mouthwatering recipe!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for added heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

The foundation of this dish starts with chicken. I like to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook evenly and stay juicy in the slow cooker.

Next, we add cherry tomatoes. Their sweetness brightens the dish and adds color. Fresh baby spinach brings a nice texture and a pop of green.

Cream gives it a rich base. Heavy cream works best for that dreamy, silky sauce. We also need chicken broth. It adds flavor and keeps everything moist.

Garlic is a must for that savory taste. I use four cloves, minced finely. For flavor, we add Italian seasoning. It brings herbs together nicely.

If you want some heat, red pepper flakes are perfect. Just half a teaspoon adds a nice kick. Don’t forget salt and pepper to taste.

Finally, Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor. It melts beautifully into the sauce. For a fresh touch, garnish with basil leaves when serving.

Gather all these ingredients, and you’re ready to create a simple delight!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

To start, season both sides of the chicken breasts well with salt and pepper. This step is key for adding great flavor. Use enough salt to coat the chicken evenly. You want to make sure that each bite is tasty. This simple seasoning will enhance the natural taste of the chicken.

Layering Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Next, it’s time to layer your ingredients correctly in the slow cooker. First, place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom. This keeps them moist as they cook. Then, sprinkle the halved cherry tomatoes and minced garlic over the chicken. Distributing them evenly helps all the flavors mix well.

After that, carefully pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. This liquid should cover most of the chicken. It creates a rich sauce. Finally, add the Italian seasoning and optional red pepper flakes on top. These spices give your dish a lovely kick.

Cooking Instructions

Now, secure the lid on the slow cooker. Set it to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Cooking it low and slow makes the chicken tender and juicy. Always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.

About 30 minutes before serving, gently fold in the fresh baby spinach. This wilts it down nicely. Then, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Stir everything together for a creamy finish. Enjoy the wonderful aroma as it cooks!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Creaminess

To make your sauce extra creamy, you can adjust the cream ratio. If you want a thicker sauce, add more heavy cream. If you prefer a lighter dish, reduce the cream and add more chicken broth. You can also use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a different texture.

Enhancing Flavor

You can boost the flavor of your dish by adding spices and herbs. Consider using fresh thyme or oregano for a brighter taste. A dash of lemon juice can add a nice zing. If you like a bit of heat, increase the red pepper flakes. You can also mix in sun-dried tomatoes for a richer flavor.

Presentation Advice

For a beautiful presentation, serve the creamy chicken in shallow bowls. Drizzle the sauce over the chicken. Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top for a nice touch. Garnish with fresh basil leaves to brighten the dish. A little cracked black pepper can also enhance the look and flavor.

Variations

Alternative Proteins

You can switch up the chicken in this dish. Use chicken thighs for a richer flavor. They stay juicy and tender. Another option is turkey breast. It cooks well and has a mild taste. If you want beef, consider using thin cuts of flank steak. Just cut them into strips. For pork lovers, try pork tenderloin for a new twist. Each protein adds its own flavor, making the dish unique.

Vegetarian Option

Want a meatless version? Use hearty vegetables instead of meat. Replace the chicken with mushrooms. They add a nice texture and absorb flavors well. You can also use chickpeas for protein. They work well with creamy sauces and add a nice bite. Another option is to use tofu. Firm tofu holds its shape and soaks up the sauce wonderfully. Don’t forget to add extra spices to boost the flavor!

Flavor Variations

Changing up ingredients can create new tastes. Try using sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper flavor. They add a nice sweetness. You can also experiment with different herbs. Basil and oregano can change the whole feel of the dish. For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or other hot peppers. If you like a tangy taste, use lemon zest or a splash of balsamic vinegar. Each of these changes can give your creamy Tuscan chicken a fresh twist!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your creamy Tuscan chicken fresh, follow these steps:

  • Allow the chicken to cool down to room temperature.
  • Place it in an airtight container.
  • Store it in the fridge for up to four days.

This way, you keep the flavors intact and prevent spoilage.

Reheating Tips

When reheating, you want to keep that creamy texture. Here are two great methods:

  • Stovetop: Place the chicken in a pan over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to help it stay creamy. Stir often until heated through.
  • Microwave: Put the chicken in a microwave-safe dish. Cover it loosely with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. This helps prevent drying out.

Both methods work well to keep the dish rich and smooth.

Freezing Instructions

Yes, you can freeze this dish! Here’s how:

  • Cool the chicken completely before freezing.
  • Use a freezer-safe container or bag. Remove as much air as possible.
  • Label it with the date and freeze for up to three months.

To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge. Then, follow the reheating tips for the best results. Enjoy your meal later!

FAQs

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken?

Cooking time depends on your slow cooker setting. If you use the low setting, it takes about 6 to 7 hours. For the high setting, it takes about 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. This method makes the chicken tender and juicy, perfect for your meal.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, cooking it from frozen may take longer. You should add about an hour to the cooking time. Make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it cooks through. If you use fresh chicken, it will cook more evenly and quickly.

What to serve with Creamy Tuscan Chicken?

Pair this dish with various sides for a complete meal. Here are some great ideas:

  • Garlic bread to soak up the sauce
  • Steamed vegetables for a healthy touch
  • Rice or pasta to complement the creamy sauce
  • A fresh salad for a light option

These sides will enhance your meal and make it more enjoyable.

This blog covered how to make delicious Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken. We looked at key ingredients, like chicken, tomatoes, and spices. I shared step-by-step instructions to make cooking easy. Tips helped with taste and texture. Plus, I gave ideas for variations and storage.

In the end, enjoy your cooking. With some practice, you can master this dish. Happy cooking!

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 2 cups fresh baby spinach - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup chicken broth - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for added heat) - Salt and pepper to taste - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - Fresh basil leaves, for garnish The foundation of this dish starts with chicken. I like to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook evenly and stay juicy in the slow cooker. Next, we add cherry tomatoes. Their sweetness brightens the dish and adds color. Fresh baby spinach brings a nice texture and a pop of green. Cream gives it a rich base. Heavy cream works best for that dreamy, silky sauce. We also need chicken broth. It adds flavor and keeps everything moist. Garlic is a must for that savory taste. I use four cloves, minced finely. For flavor, we add Italian seasoning. It brings herbs together nicely. If you want some heat, red pepper flakes are perfect. Just half a teaspoon adds a nice kick. Don’t forget salt and pepper to taste. Finally, Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor. It melts beautifully into the sauce. For a fresh touch, garnish with basil leaves when serving. Gather all these ingredients, and you’re ready to create a simple delight! To start, season both sides of the chicken breasts well with salt and pepper. This step is key for adding great flavor. Use enough salt to coat the chicken evenly. You want to make sure that each bite is tasty. This simple seasoning will enhance the natural taste of the chicken. Next, it’s time to layer your ingredients correctly in the slow cooker. First, place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom. This keeps them moist as they cook. Then, sprinkle the halved cherry tomatoes and minced garlic over the chicken. Distributing them evenly helps all the flavors mix well. After that, carefully pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. This liquid should cover most of the chicken. It creates a rich sauce. Finally, add the Italian seasoning and optional red pepper flakes on top. These spices give your dish a lovely kick. Now, secure the lid on the slow cooker. Set it to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Cooking it low and slow makes the chicken tender and juicy. Always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety. About 30 minutes before serving, gently fold in the fresh baby spinach. This wilts it down nicely. Then, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Stir everything together for a creamy finish. Enjoy the wonderful aroma as it cooks! To make your sauce extra creamy, you can adjust the cream ratio. If you want a thicker sauce, add more heavy cream. If you prefer a lighter dish, reduce the cream and add more chicken broth. You can also use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a different texture. You can boost the flavor of your dish by adding spices and herbs. Consider using fresh thyme or oregano for a brighter taste. A dash of lemon juice can add a nice zing. If you like a bit of heat, increase the red pepper flakes. You can also mix in sun-dried tomatoes for a richer flavor. For a beautiful presentation, serve the creamy chicken in shallow bowls. Drizzle the sauce over the chicken. Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top for a nice touch. Garnish with fresh basil leaves to brighten the dish. A little cracked black pepper can also enhance the look and flavor. {{image_4}} You can switch up the chicken in this dish. Use chicken thighs for a richer flavor. They stay juicy and tender. Another option is turkey breast. It cooks well and has a mild taste. If you want beef, consider using thin cuts of flank steak. Just cut them into strips. For pork lovers, try pork tenderloin for a new twist. Each protein adds its own flavor, making the dish unique. Want a meatless version? Use hearty vegetables instead of meat. Replace the chicken with mushrooms. They add a nice texture and absorb flavors well. You can also use chickpeas for protein. They work well with creamy sauces and add a nice bite. Another option is to use tofu. Firm tofu holds its shape and soaks up the sauce wonderfully. Don't forget to add extra spices to boost the flavor! Changing up ingredients can create new tastes. Try using sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper flavor. They add a nice sweetness. You can also experiment with different herbs. Basil and oregano can change the whole feel of the dish. For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or other hot peppers. If you like a tangy taste, use lemon zest or a splash of balsamic vinegar. Each of these changes can give your creamy Tuscan chicken a fresh twist! To keep your creamy Tuscan chicken fresh, follow these steps: - Allow the chicken to cool down to room temperature. - Place it in an airtight container. - Store it in the fridge for up to four days. This way, you keep the flavors intact and prevent spoilage. When reheating, you want to keep that creamy texture. Here are two great methods: - Stovetop: Place the chicken in a pan over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to help it stay creamy. Stir often until heated through. - Microwave: Put the chicken in a microwave-safe dish. Cover it loosely with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. This helps prevent drying out. Both methods work well to keep the dish rich and smooth. Yes, you can freeze this dish! Here’s how: - Cool the chicken completely before freezing. - Use a freezer-safe container or bag. Remove as much air as possible. - Label it with the date and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge. Then, follow the reheating tips for the best results. Enjoy your meal later! Cooking time depends on your slow cooker setting. If you use the low setting, it takes about 6 to 7 hours. For the high setting, it takes about 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. This method makes the chicken tender and juicy, perfect for your meal. Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, cooking it from frozen may take longer. You should add about an hour to the cooking time. Make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it cooks through. If you use fresh chicken, it will cook more evenly and quickly. Pair this dish with various sides for a complete meal. Here are some great ideas: - Garlic bread to soak up the sauce - Steamed vegetables for a healthy touch - Rice or pasta to complement the creamy sauce - A fresh salad for a light option These sides will enhance your meal and make it more enjoyable. This blog covered how to make delicious Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken. We looked at key ingredients, like chicken, tomatoes, and spices. I shared step-by-step instructions to make cooking easy. Tips helped with taste and texture. Plus, I gave ideas for variations and storage. In the end, enjoy your cooking. With some practice, you can master this dish. Happy cooking!

Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Savor the flavors of Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken with this easy recipe! Just layer juicy chicken breasts with cherry tomatoes, spinach, and a rich creamy sauce for a delightful meal that cooks while you relax. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is sure to impress! Click through to explore the full recipe and tips for serving. #SlowCookerRecipes #TuscanChicken #EasyDinner #ComfortFood
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Ingredients
  

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

2 cups fresh baby spinach

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for added heat)

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken: Begin by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper, ensuring an even coating for flavor.

    Layer Ingredients: In the slow cooker, arrange the seasoned chicken breasts on the bottom. On top of the chicken, add the halved cherry tomatoes and the minced garlic, distributing them evenly.

      Add Liquids: Carefully pour the chicken broth and heavy cream over the layers, making sure the chicken is mostly submerged in the liquid. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning and optional red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.

        Cooking: Secure the lid on the slow cooker and set it to low. Allow the chicken to cook for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is tender.

          Finish the Dish: About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, gently fold the fresh baby spinach into the slow cooker, allowing it to wilt. Then, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and stir gently to mix everything together.

            Serve: Once the chicken is cooked and the spinach has wilted, taste for seasoning and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve the creamy Tuscan chicken hot, adorned with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and freshness.

              Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 6-7 hrs | Servings: 4

                - Presentation Tips: Serve the creamy chicken in shallow bowls, drizzling the sauce over the top and garnishing with additional Parmesan and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper for an elegant finish.

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