Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken
This slow cooker Tuscan chicken recipe features tender chicken cooked in a rich, creamy tomato sauce with spinach. It's an easy and flavorful meal perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Large skillet
- Paper towels
- Bowl
- Two forks
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil optional, for searing
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 garlic minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes undrained
- 0.5 cup chicken broth
- 0.5 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for dairy-free
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 0.5 tsp dried thyme
- 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for a kick
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional, for serving
- Fresh basil or parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat chicken dry; sear in olive oil for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned, then transfer to the slow cooker.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic around the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Combine diced tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper; stir well.
- Pour the sauce over the ingredients in the slow cooker; stir gently to submerge everything.
- Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shreddable.
Finishing Touches
- Remove and shred the cooked chicken; return it to the pot.
- Stir in fresh spinach and cook for 10-15 minutes until wilted.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
- Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
Notes
For a richer flavor, brown the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker. Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end can brighten the flavors.