Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Spinach Slow Cooker Pasta

If you’re looking for a meal that combines rich, comforting flavors with the ease of slow cooker magic, this Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Spinach Slow Cooker Pasta is exactly what you need. Tender chicken breasts simmered in a luscious sauce of heavy cream, chicken broth, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach come together with perfectly cooked pasta for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re coming home after a busy day or planning a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Plus, it’s an effortless way to impress family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Spinach Slow Cooker Pasta recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Here’s why it stands out:

• Hands-Off Cooking: Just set it in the slow cooker and let it do the work while you focus on other things.
• Rich, Flavorful Sauce: The combination of heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan creates a velvety sauce with a perfect balance of tangy and savory notes.
• Healthy and Satisfying: Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients without overpowering the dish.
• Versatile: You can swap out pasta shapes or even try this with gluten-free noodles to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish reheats beautifully, making it ideal for lunches or dinners throughout the week.

If you love dishes like the Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken, you’ll appreciate the slow cooker twist in this recipe that brings out deep, rich flavors and a creamy texture.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 12 ounces pasta of choice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

How To Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Spinach Slow Cooker Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a nice golden crust. This step locks in the juices and adds a depth of flavor to the dish. Once browned, transfer the chicken to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Combine the Sauce Ingredients

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Chicken

Pour the creamy tomato sauce over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken and Add Spinach

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Add the chopped spinach and parmesan cheese, stirring everything together until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the sauce.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

While the spinach is wilting, cook your pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a little pasta water just in case you want to loosen the sauce.

Step 6: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker and gently toss everything together to coat the noodles in the creamy Tuscan sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Spinach Slow Cooker Pasta hot, garnished with extra parmesan or fresh herbs if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or crusty bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the sear on the chicken – it adds essential flavor and texture to the dish.
• Overcooking the pasta – cook it al dente since it will finish cooking when mixed with the sauce.
• Not adjusting seasoning – taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving to enhance the flavors.
• Adding spinach too early – spinach cooks quickly, so add it near the end to keep it vibrant and fresh.
• Using low-fat cream – stick to heavy cream to achieve that rich, luxurious sauce texture.

Dietary Options

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta varieties to make this dish gluten-free without compromising on taste.
• Lower Fat: Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option that still provides creaminess.
• Vegetarian: Replace chicken with hearty mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Low-Carb: Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter, keto-friendly version.

Seasonal Variations

• Spring: Add fresh peas and asparagus for a burst of color and sweetness.
• Summer: Incorporate fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes for a juicier, fresher flavor.
• Fall: Add roasted butternut squash or pumpkin puree to the sauce for a cozy twist.
• Winter: Use kale instead of spinach for a heartier, more robust green that stands up well to slow cooking.

Storage & Make-Ahead

This dish stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also prepare the sauce and chicken portion ahead of time and refrigerate it without the pasta, cooking the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve to maintain a perfect texture.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time by about an hour on low. It’s best to check the chicken for doneness before shredding to ensure it’s fully cooked.

What type of pasta works best with this slow cooker dish?

Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or rigatoni hold the sauce nicely and are perfect for this recipe. However, feel free to use your favorite pasta—just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use a dairy-free parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast to maintain that cheesy flavor.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, you can double the ingredients, but make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the increased volume. You may also need to adjust cooking times slightly, checking for doneness as you go.

Conclusion

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Spinach Slow Cooker Pasta is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that come together effortlessly in one pot. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh spinach create a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping meals ahead, this recipe offers versatility, ease, and a satisfying dinner option that will quickly become a staple in your rotation. Give it a try, and enjoy the rich taste of Tuscany from the comfort of your own home.

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