Slow cookers are culinary lifesavers, and this Creamy Slow Cooker Italian Chicken recipe is no exception. It's a simple, yet incredibly flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight meal or a relaxed weekend dinner. The chicken emerges tender and juicy, bathed in a rich, creamy tomato sauce that's bursting with Italian herbs and spices. This recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences, allowing for variations in spice levels and added vegetables. Let's dive in!
What Makes this Creamy Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Recipe Special?
This recipe transcends the typical slow cooker fare. It achieves a depth of flavor often lacking in simpler recipes, thanks to a combination of factors:
- Aromatic Base: We start with a flavorful base of sautéed onions and garlic, building a foundation for the rich sauce.
- Balanced Spices: Italian seasoning, oregano, basil, and a touch of red pepper flakes create a harmonious blend of herbs and spices. The balance is key—avoiding overpowering any single element.
- Creamy Texture: Heavy cream or cream cheese adds richness and creaminess, creating a luxuriously smooth sauce that coats the chicken perfectly.
- Slow Cooking Magic: The slow cooker's gentle heat allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time.
Creamy Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Recipe
Yields: 6 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or cream cheese (softened)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked pasta or rice (for serving)
Instructions:
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion in a little olive oil until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to your slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Add Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Slow Cook: Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
- Stir in Cream: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the heavy cream or softened cream cheese. If using cream cheese, ensure it's fully incorporated and melted into the sauce.
- Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
- Return Chicken to Sauce: Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the sauce.
- Serve: Serve the creamy Italian chicken over cooked pasta or rice, garnished with fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, you can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks. However, the cooking time will need to be adjusted; bone-in chicken generally requires a longer cooking time. Aim for at least 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach would be delicious additions. Add them along with the chicken. Heartier vegetables like carrots or potatoes might benefit from being added earlier in the cooking process.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat. You could also incorporate a diced jalapeño pepper along with the other vegetables.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Sauté the onions and garlic as directed. Then transfer everything to the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural pressure release. Stir in the cream during the last few minutes of cooking.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover Creamy Slow Cooker Italian Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It reheats well in the microwave or on the stovetop.
This Creamy Slow Cooker Italian Chicken recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its ease of preparation, coupled with its rich and satisfying flavors, makes it a perfect addition to your weekly meal rotation. Enjoy!
