This Easy Crockpot Creamy Tuscan Chicken Thighs recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach, all simmered to perfection in your crockpot. The result is tender, juicy chicken thighs enveloped in a luxurious creamy sauce that’s perfect for serving over pasta, rice, or even crusty bread. It’s an effortless dish that allows you to sit back and relax while dinner cooks!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours
- Total Time: 4-6 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 400
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
Why Make This Easy Crockpot Creamy Tuscan Chicken Thighs
Crockpot meals are perfect for busy days when you want a delicious homemade dinner with minimal effort. This Easy Crockpot Creamy Tuscan Chicken Thighs brings vibrant Mediterranean flavors to your table while allowing you the freedom to prepare other meals or unwind. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fresh spinach elevates weeknight dinners to something truly special. Moreover, it’s an excellent way to enjoy a wholesome, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen!
How to Make Easy Crockpot Creamy Tuscan Chicken Thighs
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup spinach, fresh
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese, for serving
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then brown them on both sides. This step adds a lovely depth of flavor and color to your chicken.
Step 2: Mixing
In a crockpot, combine the browned chicken, minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir gently to ensure even distribution of flavors.
Step 3: Cooking
Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender. The longer the chicken cooks, the more infused it will be with the rich flavors of the sauce.
Step 4: Finishing
About 30 minutes before serving, add the fresh spinach and stir it into the sauce. This will keep the spinach vibrant and packed with nutrients. Serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of decadence.
How to Serve Easy Crockpot Creamy Tuscan Chicken Thighs
This dish is best served over your favorite pasta, rice, or even a creamy polenta. A side of garlic bread perfectly complements the richness of the sauce while allowing you to savor every drop. Pair it with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal that’s sure to impress family and friends!
How to Store Easy Crockpot Creamy Tuscan Chicken Thighs
To store leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Expert Tips for Perfect Easy Crockpot Creamy Tuscan Chicken Thighs
- Searing the Chicken: Don’t skip the browning step! It gives the chicken great color and flavor.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for additional textures and flavors.
- Adjust for Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with other herbs such as thyme or oregano for a different flavor profile.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick!
Delicious Variations
- Pesto Tuscan Chicken: Stir in a few tablespoons of pesto along with the cream for an herby twist.
- Tuscan Chicken with Broccoli: Add blanched broccoli florets to the crockpot for more vegetables.
- Italian Sausage Variation: Replace half of the chicken with Italian sausage for a heartier dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless?
Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly as bone-in thighs will take longer to cook through. -
Can I use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner and less creamy. Consider adding a little cornstarch for thickness if needed. -
What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
You could substitute with roasted red peppers or omit them entirely for a simpler flavor. -
Is it necessary to brown the chicken first?
While it’s not mandatory, browning adds flavor and texture to the chicken that enhances the final dish. -
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked. Using a meat thermometer can help ensure accuracy.
Conclusion
Easy Crockpot Creamy Tuscan Chicken Thighs is a true crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make again and again. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this dish brings comfort and satisfaction that warms the heart and fills the stomach. Whether you’re looking to impress at a dinner party or need a simple weeknight meal, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Gather your ingredients, set your crockpot, and let the magic happen! Enjoy the delightful aroma and, most importantly, the savory results of your cooking adventure!
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Easy Crockpot Creamy Tuscan Chicken Thighs
- Total Time: 315 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
This dish combines the rich flavors of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach, all simmered to perfection in your crockpot, resulting in tender chicken thighs enveloped in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then brown them on both sides.
- In a crockpot, combine the browned chicken, minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir gently to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the fresh spinach and stir it into the sauce. Serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Searing the chicken adds great color and flavor. Feel free to add more vegetables or adjust for creaminess according to your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 300 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
