Delicious Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Recipe

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About Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken

Indulge in a delightful and creamy slow cooker Tuscan Chicken Recipe, dish with this easy slow cooker recipe. Tender chicken, sun dried tomatoes and fresh herbs create a mouthwatering Italian inspired meal crockpot tuscan chickenPerfect for busy weeknights.

As for the history of Crockpot Tuscan Chicken it’s important to note that the slow cooker or crockpot is a relatively modern kitchen appliance, first introduced in the mid-20th century. Tuscan cuisine on the other hand has a much longer history rooted in the rural regions of Tuscany Italy. Tuscan dishes traditionally feature simple yet flavorful ingredients that are locally sourced and often prepared using slow cooking methods.

Gallery Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken

Ingredients

The specific combination of ingredients that make up Crockpot Tuscan Chicken is a modern fusion of Tuscan flavors adapted to the convenience of a slow cooker Tuscan Chicken recipe. This dish has gained popularity in recent years due to the ease of preparation and the rich, comforting flavors it offers. While it may not have a long historical tradition, it reflects the contemporary culinary trend of adapting regional flavors and ingredients to modern cooking methods, making it a popular choice for home cooks looking for a convenient and delicious meal option.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/4 cup fresh spinach, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
Red pepper
2 cups cooked pasta (such as penne or fettuccine)
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Cream sauce
cauliflower rice
Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Mashed potatoes

Instructions

1/ In a slow cooker, combine the diced tomatoes (with their juice), chicken broth, heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped onion, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Mix everything well for better crockpot tuscan chicken.

2/ Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste, then place them in the slow cooker, submerging them in the sauce.

3/ Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

4/ About 30 minutes before serving, shred the cooked chicken using two forks right in the slow cooker. This will allow the chicken to soak up more of the delicious sauce.

5/ Stir in the fresh basil and spinach and let them wilt into the sauce.

6/ Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Serveing

Hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.

Enjoy your crockpot tuscan chicken, slow cooker Tuscan chicken recipe.

This recipe is a delightful blend of flavors, italian seasoning, with the creaminess of the sauce and the richness of the sun-dried tomatoes. It’s perfect for a comforting and easy weeknight dinner.

Tips and Tricks

Brown the Chicken First (Optional): While not required, searing the chicken in a hot skillet with a little olive oil before placing it in the slow cooker can add extra flavor and depth to the dish. It’s an extra step, but many find it worthwhile.

Layer Ingredients Wisely: When layering ingredients in the slow cooker Tuscan chicken Recipe, start with the chicken at the bottom, followed by the sauce and other ingredients. This helps ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.

Use Boneless, Skinless Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for slow cooker recipes as they cook evenly and absorb flavors well.

Adjust Cooking Time: Slow cooker cooking times can vary depending on the make and model of your appliance. Be prepared to adjust the cooking time if necessary. Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Add Cream Later: If you’re concerned about the cream curdling in the slow cooker, add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking instead of at the beginning. This can help maintain a smoother consistency.

Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: While fresh herbs provide a burst of flavor, dried herbs work well in slow cooker recipes because they release their flavors over time. Feel free to use either, but adjust the quantities accordingly (use less dried herbs than fresh).

Customize Your Veggies: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or artichoke hearts to the dish for added flavor and nutrition.

Low and Slow: Cooking on the low setting is often recommended for slow cooker recipes as it allows the flavors to meld together better and results in tender chicken.

Prevent Overcooking: To avoid overcooking, you can use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s temperature. Once it reaches 165°F (74°C), it’s done.

Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Remember, flavors can intensify during slow cooking.

Pasta Separately: Consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it to individual plates before serving. This prevents the pasta from becoming too soft in the slow cooker.

Garnish Creatively: Garnish your Tuscan chicken with fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or chives for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Storage and Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Tuscan chicken often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.

By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to create a flavorful and tender slow cooker Tuscan chicken recipe dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your slow cooker Tuscan chicken recipe meal at home.

Nutrition Facts

The nutrition facts for Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken recipe can vary depending on the specific ingredients and serving sizes used in the recipe. However, here are approximate nutrition facts for a typical serving of Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken recipe, which is about 1 cup of the dish:

Calories: Approximately 250-300 calories per serving
Total Fat: Approximately 10-15 grams per serving
- Saturated Fat: About 4-6 grams per serving
Cholesterol: Around 75-100 milligrams per serving
Sodium: Approximately 500-700 milligrams per serving
Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20 grams per serving
- Dietary Fiber: About 2-3 grams per serving
- Sugars: Approximately 2-3 grams per serving
Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams per serving

These values are rough estimates and can vary based on factors like the specific ingredients used, the portion size, and any additional ingredients or variations in the recipe. For precise nutrition information, it’s advisable to calculate the values based on the exact ingredients and quantities you use in your Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken recipe.

FAQs Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken

Can I use frozen chicken for Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken?

It’s recommended to use thawed chicken for even cooking. You can thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before placing it in the slow cooker.

How long does Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken take to cook?

Cooking times may vary, but generally, it takes around 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. Ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I substitute heavy cream with a lighter option?

Yes, you can use alternatives like half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version. Adjust quantities based on your preference.

What sides pair well with Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken?

This dish goes well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. Steamed vegetables or a side salad are also great choices.

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker with the chicken?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts during the last hour of cooking to enhance the Tuscan flavors.

Is it possible to cook Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken on high heat for a shorter time?

Yes, you can cook it on high for a shorter duration, but keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking. Adjust the cooking time based on your slow cooker’s settings.

Can I make Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be prepared ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

What’s a good alternative if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

You can use fresh cherry tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes as a substitute. They’ll add a slightly different flavor but will still complement the dish.

How do I prevent the cream from curdling in the slow cooker?

To prevent curdling, add the cream towards the end of the cooking time and stir it in gently. Avoid boiling the cream, as high temperatures can cause curdling.

Can I freeze leftovers of Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers in a sealed container. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave when ready to enjoy.