If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Crockpot Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Creamy Spinach Recipe is just what you need. This slow cooker marvel blends the rich flavors of garlic-kissed chicken with tangy sun-dried tomatoes, silky cream, and fresh spinach, creating a luscious sauce that’s perfect for cozy weeknights or special occasions. The best part? It practically makes itself while filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas that promise comfort in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to creating this rich, flavorful dish. Each component plays a key role in building layers of taste, texture, and that beautifully rustic color that Tuscan dishes are known for.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The tender, juicy protein base that soaks up all the savory flavors.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Adds aromatic warmth and a subtle kick that elevates everything.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A herbaceous blend that perfectly complements the sun-dried tomatoes.
- 3/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- Ground black pepper (to taste): Brings just the right hint of spice for depth.
- 1 (8-oz) jar sun-dried tomatoes (in oil with herbs, drained and chopped): Their rich, slightly tangy bite is the signature of this recipe.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps the chicken moist and blends the flavors during slow cooking.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates that irresistible creamy texture in the sauce.
- 1 cup baby spinach (roughly chopped): Adds freshness, color, and a mild earthiness to the creamy sauce.
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese: The nutty, salty finish that melts into every bite.
- 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch (optional): Perfect if you prefer a thicker, velvety sauce.
How to Make Crockpot Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Creamy Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by spraying the inside of your crockpot with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Lay the 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom, then sprinkle the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper evenly on top. This simple seasoning step ensures each bite of chicken is infused with fragrant and savory notes.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Next, spread the drained and chopped sun-dried tomatoes over the seasoned chicken. These little bursts of umami-packed flavor will melt into the meat as it cooks. Pour in the chicken broth evenly, which helps keep the chicken juicy and starts building the base of your luscious sauce.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Close the lid and set your crockpot to LOW for about 2.5 to 3.5 hours. The chicken needs to reach an internal temperature of 165°F to be perfectly cooked and tender. Avoid opening the lid during cooking to keep all the moisture locked in; a food thermometer with a probe that stays in throughout the cooking time is a brilliant tool to prevent overcooking and keep your chicken juicy.
Step 4: Finish the Sauce
When the chicken is ready, carefully remove it and set it aside to rest. Stir heavy cream, baby spinach, and grated Parmesan into the sauce left in the crockpot. If you love a thick sauce, now’s the time to stir in the cornstarch mixed with cool water. Leave the lid off and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and the sauce to bubble up into creamy perfection. Taste it and adjust seasoning if needed—it’s your chance to add a pinch more salt or pepper if desired.
Step 5: Final Touch and Serve
Return the chicken to the crockpot and generously spoon the creamy sauce over each piece. Close the lid and let everything warm through for 5 more minutes. Now, your Crockpot Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Creamy Spinach Recipe is ready to be enjoyed with your favorite pasta, fluffy rice, or comforting mashed potatoes. Trust me, every mouthful is divine.
How to Serve Crockpot Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Creamy Spinach Recipe
Garnishes
To make the dish even more inviting, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the top just before serving. A tiny drizzle of good quality olive oil or a few shavings of extra Parmesan cheese will add flair and elevate the presentation.
Side Dishes
This dish is perfect paired with creamy mashed potatoes that soak up the sauce, al dente pasta to catch every flavorful drop, or even crunchy garlic bread for texture contrast. Roasted vegetables or a simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette can lighten the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Crockpot Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Creamy Spinach Recipe over a bed of creamy polenta for a rustic flair or spoon it atop cheesy cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist. Dish it elegantly in individual ramekins for a dinner party that impresses but doesn’t stress you out.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next-day meal even more satisfying.
Freezing
If you want to meal prep or save some for later, this Crockpot Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Creamy Spinach Recipe freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months, making weekday dinners a breeze.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until hot. Stir occasionally to keep the creamy sauce smooth and luscious, adding a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and a bit more richness to the dish. Just keep an eye on cooking times since thighs can sometimes cook a bit faster or slower depending on their size.
Do I have to use sun-dried tomatoes in oil?
If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes in oil, you can use dry-packed ones, but soak them in warm water first to rehydrate. The oil-packed version adds more flavor, so you might want to drizzle a bit of olive oil to compensate.
Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
Yes, swap out heavy cream and Parmesan for coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast. The flavor profile will shift a bit but still be deliciously creamy and comforting.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
You sure can! Use the sauté function to brown lightly, then pressure cook on high for about 10 minutes, followed by a quick release. Finish the sauce as instructed. It’s a faster route to enjoying the same amazing flavors.
What can I serve this with for a low-carb meal?
Try serving the chicken over cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or alongside steamed green veggies for a satisfying low-carb, keto-friendly dinner that still delivers on flavor and comfort.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Crockpot Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Creamy Spinach Recipe enough—it’s one of those dishes that feels like a little celebration in your own home. Whether you’re feeding family or entertaining friends, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with minimal effort and maximum flavor. So grab your crockpot, gather your ingredients, and let this comforting Tuscan delight work its magic!
Print
Crockpot Tuscan Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Creamy Spinach Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 180 minutes
- Total Time: 195 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A creamy and flavorful Crockpot Tuscan Chicken recipe featuring tender chicken breasts slow-cooked with garlic, Italian seasoning, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich Parmesan spinach cream sauce. Perfect for an easy and comforting dinner served over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5–2 pounds)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 3/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
Additional Ingredients
- 1 (8-oz) jar sun-dried tomatoes in oil with herbs, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated preferred)
- 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
- Prep chicken: Spray the inside of a ~4 quart crockpot with nonstick cooking spray. Place 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Sprinkle 2 cloves minced garlic and 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning evenly over the chicken. Add 3/4 teaspoon salt and ground black pepper to taste.
- Add tomatoes and broth: Spread the drained, chopped sun-dried tomatoes evenly over the chicken. Pour 1/2 cup chicken broth over the top.
- Slow cook: Close the lid and cook on LOW for 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on your slow cooker, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Avoid opening the lid during cooking to maintain heat and moisture.
- Finish sauce: Open the lid carefully and remove the chicken breasts; set them aside to rest. Stir in 1 cup heavy cream, 1 cup chopped baby spinach, and 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese into the remaining sauce in the slow cooker. For a thicker sauce, dissolve 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch in 1 tablespoon cool water and stir it in. Leave the lid off and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes until the spinach wilts and sauce bubbles. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Finish and serve: Return the chicken to the slow cooker, spoon the creamy Tuscan sauce over the top, and close the lid. Let the chicken warm through for 5 more minutes. Serve hot with your choice of pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor, but store-bought grated cheese works fine.
- If you don’t have a slow cooker thermometer, cook the chicken on low for the full time to ensure safety.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream and Parmesan with coconut cream and nutritional yeast, respectively.
- Do not open the slow cooker lid during cooking to maintain temperature and moisture.
- Serve over your favorite starch to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.
