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Tuscan Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

Tuscan Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs
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Tuscan Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs feature tender, juicy chicken cooked low and slow with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, fresh herbs, and a creamy Parmesan sauce. This hands-off recipe delivers rich Italian flavors with minimal prep, perfect for an effortless, comforting meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Sauce & Flavorings

  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (preferably packed in oil)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Add-Ins

  • 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)
  • Crushed red chili flakes or hot sauce (optional, to taste)

Seasoning

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper to ensure crispy skin and enhanced flavor throughout cooking.
  2. Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Flip and brown the other side for 3 minutes. This step locks in juices and adds rich color and texture.
  3. Assemble in Slow Cooker: Transfer the browned chicken thighs to the slow cooker. Add minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh rosemary, thyme, and pour in the chicken broth. These ingredients will merge to form a flavorful and moist base.
  4. Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The slow, gentle heat tenderizes the chicken and infuses the sauce with herbal richness.
  5. Finish the Sauce: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Leave uncovered to allow the sauce to thicken to a creamy, luscious consistency.

Notes

  • Patience Pays Off: Browning the chicken before slow cooking enhances flavor and texture significantly.
  • Use Bone-in Thighs: They provide more juiciness and richer flavor than boneless cuts.
  • Don’t Overcook: Check during the final hour to prevent the chicken from drying out.
  • Sun-Dried Tomato Choice: Opt for those packed in oil for extra richness in flavor.
  • Fresh Herbs: Add fresh herbs at the end of cooking for a brighter, fresher flavor.
  • Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken breasts or use mushrooms/cauliflower steaks for vegetarian variations.
  • Dairy-Free Options: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and omit Parmesan cheese or use dairy-free alternatives.
  • Spice Variation: Add crushed red chili flakes or hot sauce if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: Tuscan chicken, slow cooker recipe, Italian chicken thighs, creamy chicken, easy dinner, slow cooker meals, chicken thighs recipe

Find it online: https://sophiespace.com/tuscan-slow-cooker-chicken-thighs/