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?

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.

• Q: Can I use half and half instead of heavy cream?

A: Yes, you can use half and half for a lighter version of the dish, but the creaminess may be slightly reduced.

• Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?

A: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

• Q: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

A: Bone-in chicken can be used, but adjust the cooking time accordingly for the chicken to cook through completely.

• Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

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.