Are you seeking a delightful one-pot meal tailored just for two? Look no further than this cozy Tuscan-inspired chicken recipe that gently simmers in your slow cooker. With hearty aromatics, fresh vegetables, and a simple but flavorful sauce, this recipe will make dinnertime a breeze—no big batch required!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup baby spinach, chopped
- ½ cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
To get started, warm the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear each side until lightly golden, about two minutes per side. This step locks in the chicken’s juices and enhances its flavor.
Next, transfer the chicken to your slow cooker. Add the minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, dried basil, and dried oregano. Stir gently so the seasonings mingle throughout the sauce. If you like, scatter in a handful of sliced mushrooms for extra earthiness. Put the lid on and set your slow cooker to low heat for about three hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and perfectly tender.
In the last 15 minutes of cooking, stir in the chopped baby spinach to wilt it into the sauce. Right before serving, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top to add a salty, creamy finish. Plate your chicken with a spoonful of the luscious sauce and enjoy!
This recipe is perfect for couples, roommates, or anyone cooking for two who craves a hearty and healthy meal without leftovers taking over the fridge. The tomatoes and herbs create a bold, comforting flavor, while the chicken remains moist and succulent.
Feel free to tweak this dish to your dietary needs: swap spinach for kale, opt for dairy-free cheese, or add more veggies to boost nutrition. Whether you’re short on time or simply prefer a fuss-free meal, this slow cooker treasure is sure to become a go-to favorite.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
