Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen after a long day? Do you dream of delicious, healthy meals without the endless chopping and stirring? Then you've come to the right place! Crock-Pot Express recipes are the answer to your culinary prayers. These easy recipes deliver big on flavor and convenience, allowing you to enjoy homemade cooking without the fuss. Get ready to discover the joy of effortless weeknight dinners with these quick and satisfying Crock-Pot Express recipes!
Creamy Tuscan Chicken
This Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights. The slow cooker does all the work, resulting in tender, juicy chicken in a rich and flavorful sauce. It's a healthy meal option, packed with vegetables and protein, making it a delicious and nutritious addition to your weekly meal plan.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Sear the Chicken (Optional): For extra flavor, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned. This step is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor.
- Layer Ingredients: Place the onion and garlic in the bottom of your Crock-Pot Express. Top with the seared (or unseared) chicken breasts.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Pour the diced tomatoes, Rotel, chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper over the chicken.
- Cook: Cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred and Serve: Shred the chicken with two forks directly in the slow cooker. Stir to combine everything. Serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Cooking Tips:
- For a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Add a splash of white wine for extra richness.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
Variations:
- Spicy Tuscan Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Lemon Herb Tuscan Chicken: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This Creamy Tuscan Chicken is a perfect example of how quick and easy delicious food can be with your Crock-Pot Express. Enjoy this healthy and flavorful recipe, and don't hesitate to experiment with different variations to create your own signature dish! Explore more easy recipes and healthy meals on our blog for more inspiration for your homemade cooking journey. Discover the best recipes and quick dinner ideas tailored to your busy lifestyle.