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Slow Cooker Low-Carb Tuscan Chicken with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This flavorful low-carb Tuscan chicken recipe cooked in a slow cooker features sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and Italian herbs. It’s gluten-free, dairy-free optional, and family-friendly.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), drained and chopped
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth (gluten-free if needed)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for dairy-free option)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, omit for dairy-free)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
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Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
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In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Transfer the onion and garlic mixture to the slow cooker. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, oregano, basil, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
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Place the seared chicken thighs on top of the mixture in the slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth evenly over the ingredients.
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Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
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About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh spinach and heavy cream or coconut cream. If using Parmesan cheese, add it now and stir until melted and combined.
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Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the chicken with the creamy spinach and sun-dried tomato sauce spooned over the top.
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Optional: Serve alongside cauliflower rice or steamed low-carb vegetables to keep the meal low-carb and balanced.
Tips
Pan Or Pot Required
This low-carb Tuscan chicken recipe is crafted as a Slow Cooker One-Pot meal, ideal for effortless, hands-off cooking.
Cookware Size Guidance
For optimal results, use a slow cooker with a 5 to 6-quart capacity when preparing this Tuscan chicken recipe.
Cookware Swap Guidance
ned for convenience but can be adapted if you don’t have a slow cooker: Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker: Use the 'Sauté' function to brown chicken and onions, then cook on high pressure for 15 minutes with natural release.
Leftovers Quality
Reheat gently and add a splash of liquid when needed to keep the texture moist and tender.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make Slow Cooker Low-Carb Tuscan Chicken with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes ahead?
- Yes. Prep the ingredients or cook the full dish ahead, then reheat gently so the texture stays close to freshly made.
- What cookware works best?
- Use a slow cooker and avoid crowding so the recipe cooks evenly.
- How do I know it is done?
- Follow the recipe timing, then check the main ingredient for tenderness, bubbling, browning, or safe doneness before serving.
- Can I adjust the seasoning?
- Yes. Taste near the end and adjust salt, acid, herbs, or heat in small amounts.
Customize this slow cooker Tuscan chicken to your preferences or dietary needs with these ingredient swaps:
- Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option or turkey thighs for a different taste and moisture level.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Substitute with roasted red peppers or fresh chopped tomatoes for a milder, juicier flavor.
- Heavy Cream: Replace with full-fat coconut cream for a dairy-free creamy alternative.
- Parmesan Cheese: Omit for dairy-free or use a dairy-free cheese that melts well to keep creaminess.
- Chicken Broth: Switch to vegetable broth to create a vegetarian-friendly version, adjusting cook times accordingly.
- Spinach: Swap for kale or Swiss chard for a heartier green that holds up well to slow cooking.
- Olive Oil: Use avocado oil or grapeseed oil for a different flavor profile or higher smoke point.
These substitutions maintain the recipe’s low-carb, healthy, family-friendly, gluten-free, and dairy-free qualities while adding flexibility.
Storage and Reheating
Cool Slow Cooker Low-Carb Tuscan Chicken with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes before storing. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze portions for longer storage when the ingredients are freezer-friendly. Reheat gently with a splash of liquid if the dish looks dry.
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