Go Back

Dump and Go Creamy Tuscan Chicken - Easy, Comforting, and Flavor-Packed

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds chicken breasts or thighs (boneless, skinless)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups baby spinach, lightly packed
  • 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomato oil or olive oil
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat
  • Optional garnish: Fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Method
 

  1. Season the chicken: Pat the chicken dry. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides. This builds flavor from the start.
  2. Layer the base: In your slow cooker or a 9x13-inch baking dish, add the chicken broth, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and oil. Stir to combine. Place the chicken in a single layer on top.
  3. Add the creamy elements: Scatter the cream cheese cubes around the chicken. Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle with Parmesan. If you like heat, add red pepper flakes.
  4. Cook it low and slow: For slow cooker: cook on Low for 4–5 hours or on High for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is tender and 165°F in the thickest part. For oven: cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30–40 minutes, depending on thickness.
  5. Stir in the greens: When the chicken is done, add the spinach and stir gently into the sauce. The heat will wilt it in about 2–3 minutes.
  6. Adjust the sauce: If the sauce seems too thick, whisk in a splash of warm broth or cream. If it’s thin, let it sit uncovered for a few minutes or stir in extra Parmesan.
  7. Taste and finish: Taste for salt and pepper and adjust. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
  8. Serve: Spoon over pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or creamy polenta. Add a squeeze of lemon if you want a little brightness.