This Easy Crockpot Tuscan Garlic Chicken is a delicious and creamy dish that’s all about rich flavors! Juicy chicken slow-cooked with garlic, spinach, and a touch of Italian herbs will make your taste buds dance.
I love how this dish practically makes itself while I go about my day! Just toss everything in the crockpot, and before you know it, dinner is served. Plus, who doesn’t love a one-pot meal? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for tenderness. If you’re looking to cut down on fat, you can use chicken thighs, which stay juicy during slow cooking.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk. Just know it may alter the richness a bit, but it’s still tasty!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, so I definitely recommend using it. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can substitute with minced garlic from a jar, but reduce the amount slightly as it’s more concentrated.
Spinach: While fresh spinach is great, you can use frozen spinach instead. Just thaw it and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the dish!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely taste. If you’re looking for alternatives, try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Tender in the Crockpot?
The key to tender chicken in the crockpot is cooking it low and slow. Here’s how to ensure perfect results:
- For best flavors, sear the chicken beforehand to lock in moisture; however, if you’re pressed for time, skip this step.
- Cook on low heat for 4-6 hours rather than high. Slow cooking allows the chicken to absorb all the sauce flavors.
- Make sure to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer.
Following these tips will help you enjoy a delicious, tender chicken dish every time!
Easy Crockpot Tuscan Garlic Chicken with Spinach
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained (optional for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, and you will need to let it cook in the crockpot for either 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. So, you can set it in the morning and enjoy a wonderful dinner in the evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This will add lots of flavor right from the beginning!
2. Sear the Chicken (Optional):
In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are lightly browned. This step is optional but helps create a richer flavor.
3. Place Chicken in the Crockpot:
Transfer the seared chicken breasts into your crockpot. This is where all the magic will happen!
4. Make the Creamy Mixture:
In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. This creamy sauce is what makes the dish so delicious!
5. Pour the Sauce:
Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken breasts in the crockpot, ensuring they are nicely covered.
6. Add Diced Tomatoes:
If you want to enhance the flavor, add the drained diced tomatoes on top of the sauce. This adds a nice texture and extra taste!
7. Cook:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked through when done.
8. Add Spinach:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the fresh spinach leaves. Let them cook until just wilted—this adds a lovely color and freshness to your dish!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chicken warm with the creamy Tuscan sauce generously spooned over the top. It pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or some crusty bread. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. This ensures that the flavors from the sauce stick to the chicken!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the creamy sauce and sear the chicken in advance, then store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to cook, just combine them in the crockpot and follow the original cooking instructions!
How to Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of cream or broth if needed to maintain the sauce’s creaminess.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This Tuscan Garlic Chicken pairs well with pasta, rice, or even quinoa to soak up that delicious sauce. Served with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad makes for a well-rounded meal!
