This Easy Slow Cooker Italian Chicken is a real treat! With tender chicken cooked in a tasty mix of tomatoes and herbs, dinner just became effortless and delicious.
I love how the slow cooker does all the work for me. Just set it and forget it, while I find my favorite show to binge. Perfect for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is best for this recipe as it stays tender and soaks up flavors. You can switch to thighs for a slightly richer taste or use tofu for a vegetarian option.
Chicken Broth: If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth is a great substitute. It will still add depth to the dish. Homemade broth is often more flavorful, if you have time.
Diced Tomatoes: The canned tomatoes with herbs are convenient and tasty. If you can’t find them, use plain diced tomatoes and add Italian herbs separately—basil or oregano work well!
Fresh Spinach: Spinach wilts down beautifully in this dish. For a different flavor, try kale or Swiss chard. They take a bit longer to soften but work just as well in this recipe.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a nice touch on top. If you want a stronger flavor, Pecorino Romano is a great alternative. Nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option.
What’s the Best Way to Shred Chicken After Cooking?
Shredding cooked chicken can seem tricky, but with a few simple steps, it’s really easy! After the chicken is cooked and tender, use two forks to pull it apart gently. Here’s how:
- Let the chicken sit for a few minutes after cooking to cool slightly.
- Grab one fork to hold the chicken steady and the other to pull the chicken apart.
- Shred in smaller pieces for better mixing with the sauce.
This technique makes sure the chicken gets soaked in all those delicious flavors from the sauce!
How to Make Easy Slow Cooker Italian Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (with Italian herbs)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cups cooked rice (for serving)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then cooks in the slow cooker for 4-8 hours, depending on your setting. It’s super simple and perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure they are spread out evenly so they cook well.
2. Add the Liquids:
Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker, then add the can of diced tomatoes along with all their juices. This will keep the chicken moist and add yummy flavor!
3. Season It Up:
Next, sprinkle the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over the chicken. Give it a little stir with a spoon to distribute the seasonings evenly.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or go for high for about 4 hours. Your kitchen will smell amazing while it cooks!
5. Add the Spinach:
About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, add the fresh spinach to the slow cooker. Just place it on top and cover again. It will cook down quickly and be a refreshing addition.
6. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is fully cooked and tender, take two forks and shred the chicken right in the slow cooker. Mix it with the sauce to make it even more delicious!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Finally, serve the shredded chicken and sauce over the cooked rice. Don’t forget to sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for that extra flavor!
Enjoy your delicious Easy Slow Cooker Italian Chicken! It’s a tasty and comforting meal that everyone will love.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just keep in mind that you will need to extend the cooking time. If cooking on low, aim for 8-10 hours, and for high, about 5-6 hours. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. You might want to add a little extra broth if it looks too dry during cooking!
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, you can substitute it with vegetable broth or even water mixed with a bouillon cube. For a richer flavor, consider using white wine or apple juice for a slightly different twist!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms along with the spinach. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly for tougher vegetables. Add them in the last hour of cooking so they don’t get too mushy!
