Are you looking for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner that doesn't require hours of slaving over a hot stove? Look no further than this crockpot Italian chicken recipe! This recipe is perfect for busy families, as it requires minimal prep time and cooks itself to tender, juicy perfection in your slow cooker. The result is a flavorful and satisfying meal that's sure to become a family favorite.
What Makes This Crockpot Italian Chicken Recipe So Good?
This recipe stands out because it balances simplicity with incredible flavor. We're not talking about bland, boiled chicken here. The combination of Italian herbs, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a rich and savory sauce that coats the chicken beautifully. The slow cooking process ensures the chicken is incredibly tender and falls off the bone, making it perfect for shredding and using in a variety of dishes. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze – just toss the liner in the garbage (if using a disposable liner) or a quick wipe down of the crockpot!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 2-3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (or a mix!)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions:
- Combine ingredients: In your slow cooker, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Add chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the slow cooker, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the sauce. If needed, add a little more chicken broth.
- Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred (optional): Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. You can also leave it whole, depending on your preference.
- Serve: Return the shredded chicken (or whole chicken) to the slow cooker and stir to coat it in the sauce. Serve over pasta, rice, polenta, or with a side of crusty bread for dipping. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you'll need to add about an hour to the cooking time. Make sure the chicken is completely thawed before shredding.
What kind of pasta pairs well with this dish?
This crockpot Italian chicken is delicious served over various pasta shapes, including spaghetti, fettuccine, linguine, or even penne.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
While this recipe is specifically designed for a slow cooker, you can adapt it for an Instant Pot. Sauté the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes in a little olive oil before adding the remaining ingredients. Pressure cook on high for 15 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural pressure release. Then, shred the chicken and serve as directed.
What can I do with leftover chicken?
Leftover chicken can be used in a variety of ways, such as in salads, sandwiches, wraps, or as a topping for pizza. You can also freeze it for later use.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Consider adding vegetables like onions, bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients. Add them along with the chicken.
This crockpot Italian chicken recipe is a winner for its ease, flavor, and versatility. Enjoy!
