Crockpot Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 lb (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth

• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream

• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped

• 3 cups fresh baby spinach

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste

• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water, if needed to thicken

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. For extra flavor, briefly sear the chicken in a skillet with olive oil until lightly browned on both sides. This step is optional.

Step 2: Prepare the creamy sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, heavy cream, minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and half of the Parmesan cheese until combined.

Step 3: Add everything to the Crockpot

Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker in a single layer where possible. Pour the creamy tomato mixture evenly over the chicken.

Step 4: Slow cook

Cover and cook on LOW for approximately 3–4 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, depending on the thickness of the chicken and your slow cooker. The chicken must reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at its thickest point. Avoid overcooking, as chicken breasts can become dry.

Step 5: Add spinach and remaining cheese

During the last 15–20 minutes of cooking, stir in the fresh spinach and remaining Parmesan cheese. Allow the spinach to wilt and the sauce to become creamy.

Step 6: Thicken the sauce if necessary

If the sauce is too thin, mix the cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the sauce. Cook for another 10–15 minutes until thickened.

Step 7: Serve

Spoon the creamy Tuscan sauce over the chicken and garnish with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan, if desired. Serve hot with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

Nutrition Information

Approximate per serving, based on 6 servings.

These estimates exclude pasta, rice, or other side dishes and will vary by ingredient brand and portion size.

Nut Information and Allergens

• Peanuts and tree nuts: No nuts are required in the standard recipe.

• Dairy: Heavy cream and Parmesan contain milk.

• Possible soy: Check the labels of broth and sun-dried tomatoes for added ingredients.

• Gluten: The basic recipe can be gluten-free if all packaged ingredients are verified gluten-free.

• Cross-contact: Check manufacturer allergen statements if cooking for someone with a severe allergy.

For a dairy-free version, use a suitable unsweetened cooking cream alternative and dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese; the flavor and consistency may differ.

Tips for the Best Results

• Juicier chicken: Use chicken breasts of similar thickness or boneless chicken thighs.

• More flavor: Sear the chicken before slow cooking.

• Richer sauce: Use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-shredded cheese.

• More vegetables: Add sliced mushrooms or extra spinach.

• Lighter sauce: Replace some heavy cream with evaporated milk, understanding that the result will be less rich.

• Avoid watery sauce: Drain oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes well and add spinach near the end.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and generally remain moist during slow cooking. Check that the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I use frozen chicken?

Do not put frozen chicken directly into a slow cooker. Thaw it safely in the refrigerator before cooking.

Can I make this recipe ahead?

Yes. Refrigerate the cooked chicken and sauce in shallow, covered containers within 2 hours. Store for 3–4 days and reheat to 165°F (74°C).

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, although cream sauces may separate slightly after thawing. Freeze in airtight portions for up to 2–3 months for best quality, thaw in the refrigerator, and reheat gently while stirring.

What should I serve with Tuscan chicken?

Penne, fettuccine, rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or steamed green beans are all good choices.