This Easy Crockpot Tuscan Garlic Chicken is a cozy dish filled with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and juicy tomatoes. It’s creamy, garlicky, and perfect for a hearty meal!
Who knew you could make such a tasty dinner with just a few ingredients? Just toss everything in the crockpot, and let it do the work—what a time-saver! 🍽️
I love serving this dish over pasta or rice for a filling dinner. It’s a hit at my table, and I’m sure it will be at yours too! Super easy and oh-so-delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you prefer dark meat, use boneless thighs for a juicier result. Feel free to use frozen chicken too; just extend cooking time a bit.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a robust flavor. If you don’t have fresh cloves, you can use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder instead. Dried herbs also pack a punch!
Cherry Tomatoes: These provide sweetness and burst in your mouth when cooked. If they’re unavailable, you can use diced canned tomatoes. Just drain some liquid to avoid a soupy dish.
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts down nicely, but you can swap it out for kale or arugula. If you want a heartier dish, frozen spinach works too—just thaw and squeeze out excess water.
Heavy Cream: This creates a creamy sauce. If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or Greek yogurt. For a dairy-free take, try coconut milk.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked in the Crockpot?
Cooking chicken in a crockpot can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll nail it! Make sure to follow these steps carefully:
- Season your chicken well to add flavor throughout the cooking process.
- Optional browning on the stove adds deep flavor and makes for a nice color.
- Cook on low for a longer period to keep the chicken tender, or use high heat if you’re short on time.
- Check for doneness—chicken is fully cooked at an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy!
After adding spinach and cream, let it cook just enough for the spinach to wilt, which will keep everything fresh and vibrant.
Enjoy your cooking journey with this delicious recipe!
Easy Crockpot Tuscan Garlic Chicken With Spinach And Tomatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For The Sauce:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll let your crockpot do the work for 4-6 hours on low (or 2-3 hours on high). It’s an easy hands-off method that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas and guarantees a warm, comforting dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides. This builds flavor right from the start!
2. Searing the Chicken:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. This step is optional but adds extra depth to the flavor.
3. Setting Up the Crockpot:
Place the seared chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. It’s okay if they overlap a little; they’ll cook evenly!
4. Adding Aromatics and Veggies:
Sprinkle the minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes over the chicken. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add the red pepper flakes. It’s going to be delicious!
5. Pouring in the Broth:
Now, pour the chicken broth over everything. This will keep your chicken moist and create a lovely sauce as it cooks. Cover the crockpot and let it work its magic!
6. Cooking Time:
Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through. The cooking time can vary a bit based on your crockpot, so check it for doneness!
7. Final Touches:
About 30 minutes before serving, carefully add the fresh spinach, creamy heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese to the crockpot. Stir gently to blend everything, allowing the spinach to wilt and the sauce to thicken up nicely.
8. Serving:
Before you serve, taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve the Tuscan garlic chicken hot over your choice of pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. Don’t forget to spoon that creamy tomato and spinach sauce all over the top!
Enjoy your comforting and flavorful crockpot meal! It’s a fantastic choice for family dinners or meal prep for the week. Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Tuscan Garlic Chicken With Spinach And Tomatoes
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure they are fully thawed and not in large clumps. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly, so check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything in the crockpot, then cover and refrigerate the ingredients. Just start cooking when you’re ready! Alternatively, you can cook it in advance and store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or even Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Coconut milk is a great dairy-free alternative as well. Just remember that substitutions might slightly change the consistency and flavor of the sauce!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or use the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
