CrockPot Tuscan Garlic Chicken Thighs With Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This CrockPot Tuscan Garlic Chicken Thighs recipe is a flavorful, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. The chicken thighs are slow-cooked to tender perfection, infused with rich garlic, creamy sauce, vibrant spinach, and the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. It’s an easy, set-it-and-forget-it meal that delivers gourmet taste with minimal effort.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless, skin removed if preferred)
• Fresh spinach
• Sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained, and chopped)
• Heavy cream
• Chicken broth
• Fresh garlic (minced)
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil

Directions

1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sear the chicken thighs until golden brown on both sides. This step enhances the flavor.
3. Transfer the seared chicken thighs to the CrockPot.
4. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
5. Add the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Stir well to combine.
6. Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken thighs in the CrockPot.
7. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
8. About 30 minutes before serving, add the fresh spinach to the CrockPot, stirring gently until wilted.
9. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
10. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high

Variations

• Protein Swap: Use boneless chicken breasts or turkey thighs for a leaner option.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut cream and nutritional yeast for heavy cream and Parmesan.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate mushrooms, bell peppers, or artichoke hearts for extra flavor and texture.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain the creamy texture.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen without the spinach. Add fresh spinach when reheating.

FAQs

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out in the CrockPot?

Cooking on low heat and not overcooking are key to keeping the chicken moist and tender.

Can I use frozen chicken thighs?

It’s recommended to thaw chicken before slow cooking for even cooking and food safety.

What can I serve with Tuscan Garlic Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the recipe up to the cooking step and refrigerate it overnight. Start cooking the next day.

Is it necessary to sear the chicken first?

While optional, searing enhances flavor and improves the dish’s texture.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?

Sun-dried tomatoes offer a concentrated flavor, but you can use fresh tomatoes for a milder taste.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce is too thin, remove the lid in the last 30 minutes of cooking or add a cornstarch slurry.

Can I add cheese other than Parmesan?

Yes, try Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

You can mix dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary as a substitute.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low in carbs, making it suitable for a keto diet, especially without pasta or bread.

Conclusion

CrockPot Tuscan Garlic Chicken Thighs with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a rich, flavorful dish that’s both easy to prepare and satisfying to eat. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant veggies, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for meal prepping, entertaining, or simply enjoying a comforting homemade dinner.

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