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–+ servings

Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken

Creamy slow cooker Tuscan chicken made with tender chicken breasts, sun dried tomatoes, spinach, garlic, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce. Cozy comfort food that feels fancy but could not be easier.
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Creamy chicken with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes on mashed potatoes, served with bread and iced tea.
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Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:6 hours
Total Time:6 hours 15 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 small onion finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes drained and chopped
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 8-ounce block cream cheese, softened and cubed
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon cold water
  • Fresh basil or parsley for serving

Instructions

  • Step 1: Season the Chicken - Lay the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Sprinkle them evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Do not rush this step. Seasoning early helps the chicken absorb flavor as it cooks.
  • Step 2: Add the Aromatics - Scatter the diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped sun dried tomatoes over the chicken. This is where the magic starts. As everything cooks, these flavors melt into the sauce and make the whole house smell amazing.
  • Step 3: Add Liquids and Cream Cheese - Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker. Nestle the cream cheese cubes around the chicken. It will look a little odd at this stage, but trust the process. It all comes together later.
  • Step 4: Slow Cook - Cover and cook on Low for four to six hours or High for two to three hours. The chicken should be very tender and easy to shred or slice.
  • Step 5: Shred or Slice the Chicken - Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and set it aside. Whisk the sauce until the cream cheese is fully melted and smooth. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until creamy.
  • Step 6: Thicken the Sauce and Add Spinach - Mix the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl, then stir it into the sauce. Add the spinach and cook on High for ten to fifteen minutes until the sauce thickens and the spinach wilts.
  • Step 7: Finish and Serve - Return the chicken to the slow cooker and spoon the sauce over the top. Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Cook Time: 4–6 hours on Low (2–3 hours on High)

Substitutions

  • Cream: Use half and half if you want a slightly lighter sauce.
  • Spinach: Kale works well and holds its texture.
  • Chicken: Boneless skinless thighs stay extra tender and flavorful.

Variations

  • Tuscan Chicken Pasta: Stir in cooked penne or fettuccine right before serving.
  • Spicy Tuscan Chicken: Add red pepper flakes for a gentle kick.
  • Creamy Mushroom Version: Add sliced mushrooms with the onions for extra earthiness.

Tips and Tricks

  • Slice After Cooking: Cutting the chicken after cooking lets it soak up more sauce.
  • Use Oil Packed Sun Dried Tomatoes: They add extra richness and flavor.
  • Add Spinach Last: This keeps it bright green and tender, not mushy.
  • Whisk the Sauce Well: Take a minute to fully blend the cream cheese for the smoothest sauce.

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Servings: 6 servings
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