Are you craving a delicious, comforting meal that's also incredibly easy to prepare? Look no further! This slow cooker Italian chicken recipe is a winner for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal hands-on time, and delivers juicy, tender chicken every time. This easy recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or healthy meals without sacrificing taste. It's a testament to the power of homemade cooking, creating a delicious dish that's far superior to takeout. Get ready to experience the magic of slow cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
- Cooked pasta or polenta, for serving
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step adds depth of flavor to your slow-cooked chicken.
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Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, combine the sautéed onion and garlic mixture with the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
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Add the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the sauce. If necessary, add a little more chicken broth to ensure the chicken is at least partially covered.
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Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together.
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Shred and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine it with the sauce. Serve over your favorite pasta, polenta, or rice. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Ensure there's enough space for the chicken to cook evenly. If using larger chicken pieces, you might need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.
- Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it uncovered for the last 30 minutes of cooking time. Alternatively, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the sauce during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the slow cooker along with the chicken.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile. Rosemary, sage, or marjoram would all be delicious additions.
- Make it spicy: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Creamy version: Stir in a cup of heavy cream or crème fraîche during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 20-30g
This slow cooker Italian chicken recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and easy food recipes. It’s a healthy meal option perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner, providing a satisfying and flavorful experience without extensive cooking efforts. Enjoy this simple yet impressive dish, a true highlight among best recipes.