Description
This Easy Tuscan Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs recipe brings the rich flavors of Italy to your table with minimal effort. Juicy, bone-in chicken thighs are seared to perfection then slow-cooked with sun-dried tomatoes, creamy Parmesan sauce, and fresh spinach, creating a comforting, savory dish that’s perfect for a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 6 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small yellow onion, sliced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 2 cups baby spinach, lightly packed
Liquids and Dairy
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry and season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning to build a flavorful base.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a light golden brown crust. This step locks in juices and adds depth to the flavor. Transfer the seared chicken thighs to your slow cooker.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until they become fragrant and slightly softened. Then transfer them to the slow cooker with the chicken.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and chicken broth to the slow cooker, distributing everything evenly around and over the chicken.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Finish the Sauce: About 30 minutes before cooking is complete, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese to create a rich, creamy sauce.
- Add Spinach: In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the baby spinach to the slow cooker and allow it to wilt gently, blending fresh greens into the dish.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the creamy Tuscan chicken hot alongside your favorite pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a quicker version, boneless chicken thighs or breasts can be used, though bone-in provides more flavor.
- To thicken the sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it in with the cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- This dish pairs excellently with mashed potatoes or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
