Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken
A rich and creamy dish that envelops succulent chicken thighs in a dreamy sauce brimming with flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and fragrant herbs. Perfect for any weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
For the chicken
- 1.5 pounds chicken thighs Tender and juicy, perfect for slow cooking.
- 1/2 cup chicken stock Provides moisture and flavor.
For the sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream Creates a luscious, velvety sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced A fragrant base for the sauce.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds rich, cheesy depth.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter Richness to enhance the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon oil from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes Adds extra flavor.
- 1/2 cup sliced sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil) Adds umami and sweetness.
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley For a hint of freshness.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil Adds herby brightness.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano Classic Mediterranean herb.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt To enhance all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper For a subtle kick.
For garnish
- 3 ounces baby spinach A nutritious green that wilts into the sauce.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a saucepan over medium heat, add the butter, oil from the sun-dried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 20 seconds, taking care not to brown the garlic.
- Pour in the chicken stock and heavy cream, allowing it to simmer gently for about 8 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and keep it on the heat for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker, sprinkle with dried basil, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange the sliced sun-dried tomatoes on top of the chicken and pour the sauce over everything.
Cooking
- Slow-cook on high for 3 hours or low for 6 hours.
- After cooking, carefully remove the chicken. Stir in the baby spinach into the sauce until it wilts.
Serving
- Serve the chicken drizzled with the creamy sauce.
Notes
To elevate the dish, consider marinating the chicken thighs in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for an hour before cooking. Experiment with different cheeses, add lemon juice for brightness, or include mushrooms for texture.