Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Indulge in a rich and flavorful dish that will transport you to Italy without leaving your kitchen! This Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe is a decadent meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish is made with simple ingredients and requires minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add the sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, basil, salt, and pepper on top of the chicken.
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Serve the creamy Tuscan chicken over pasta or rice, garnished with fresh basil.
Popular questions:
- Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
- Q: Can I use half and half instead of heavy cream?
- Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
- Q: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
- Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: While sun-dried tomatoes add a rich and concentrated flavor to the dish, you can use fresh tomatoes as a substitute. Adjust the amount to your preference.
A: Yes, you can use half and half for a lighter version of the dish, but the creaminess may be slightly reduced.
A: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
A: Bone-in chicken can be used, but adjust the cooking time accordingly for the chicken to cook through completely.
A: You can try using a dairy-free alternative for the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to make this dish dairy-free.
Helpful tips:
- For a burst of freshness, add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
- To enhance the flavor, sauté the garlic before adding it to the slow cooker.
- For a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking.
- Try adding a dash of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese before serving.
Expert Secrets:
- Cut the chicken breasts into smaller pieces for quicker cooking and more even distribution of flavors.
- For a richer taste, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged grated cheese.
- Adjust the seasoning towards the end of cooking to ensure the flavors are well-balanced.
- For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of white wine to the sauce.
- Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.