Delicious Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Recipe
In today’s fast-paced world, it becomes increasingly challenging to make healthy meals that do not compromise on taste. And that’s why I have come up with this slow cooker Italian Chicken recipe that is both delicious and easy to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe will be your ultimate go-to for any occasion.
Using simple ingredients like boneless chicken breasts, garlic, fresh rosemary, chopped tomatoes, baby portabella mushrooms, and many more, this recipe will give you an explosion of flavors in every bite. You will never have to compromise taste for convenience with this crockpot Italian chicken recipe.
This recipe is perfect for busy days when you do not have the time to chop and sauté ingredients in the kitchen. Just throw everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic. With minimal effort on your part, you’ll end up with a tender and flavorful chicken dish that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy.
And if you’re hosting a party or a gathering, this recipe will be a showstopper dish that is sure to impress. You can serve it with potatoes, green beans, or over pasta for a wholesome meal that everyone will love.
So grab your 4-quart or larger slow cooker and get ready to enjoy the taste of Italy right at home with this easy crockpot Italian chicken recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Attention all food lovers! Get ready for a mouthwatering experience as I unravel the reasons why Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Recipe is going to be your next favorite dish. With its irresistible aroma and flavor, it is sure to leave you wanting more.
First of all, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare. All you need are the ingredients from your pantry, a slow cooker, and voila! You’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time. No fuss, no mess, just perfection.
Furthermore, it’s a versatile recipe that you can customize according to your own taste. Whether you want to add more vegetables or cut down on the carbs, this dish allows you complete creative freedom. It’s perfect for those who are health-conscious or following a specific diet plan like Weight Watchers.
One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s perfect for feeding a crowd. If you’re hosting a party or having guests over for dinner, simply double the recipe and let your slow cooker do the work while you socialize with your loved ones.
Last but not least, it’s an affordable meal that will save you time and money. You can use cheaper cuts of meat like chicken thighs or drumsticks without compromising on taste. It’s also a great way to use up any leftover vegetables from your fridge.
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Recipe is proof that delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Its simplicity, versatility, and affordability make it an ideal recipe for anyone who loves good food without breaking the bank. So go ahead and add it to your weekly meal plan – your taste buds (and wallet) will thank you!
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you will need for this flavorful slow cooker Italian chicken recipe:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) chopped tomatoes, drained
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 8 ounces sliced baby portabella mushrooms
- 1 medium carrot, sliced
- 1 celery rib, sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 small eggplant, peeled and cubed
These ingredients will create a delicious and aromatic chicken dish that is perfect for any occasion. Every ingredient adds its unique taste to the final recipe, blending perfectly to give it an irresistible Italian flavor. When shopping for ingredients, try to choose fresh products, and when possible, use organic ones.
The Recipe How-To
Step 1: Prepare the ingredients
Before cooking, it is vital to prepare all the ingredients. I start by rinsing 4-6 boneless skinless chicken breast halves in cold running water and pat them dry. Then, I generously sprinkle Italian seasoning, garlic powder, fresh rosemary, salt, and ground black pepper on both sides of the chicken.
Next, I peel and mince 3 cloves of garlic, slice 8 oz. of baby portabella mushrooms, chop one medium-sized onion, one celery rib, one large carrot, and half a small eggplant to bite-sized pieces.
Finally, I gather one cup of canned diced tomatoes with their juices, one can (14 ounces) of tomato sauce, and two tablespoons of tomato paste. For a tangy kick, two tablespoons of red wine vinegar are added.
Step 2: Preheat and prep slow cooker
To ensure an even cooking process and optimal flavors development, I preheat a large (at least 6 quart or larger) slow cooker on high for around 20 minutes before placing my seasoned chicken in its bottom.
I then lightly spray cooking spray on the side surfaces to prevent sticking or burning.
Step 3: Combine all ingredients together
In a small bowl or a measuring cup, combine one package dried Italian dressing mix, half a block (4 ounces) cubed cream cheese, and one can (10 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup.
Mix the seasoning mixture with your already prepared vegetables until totally combined.
Add this mixture to your slow cooker with the chicken that has been placed in bottom already. Pour the can of tomato sauce over it, followed by the two tablespoons of red wine vinegar.
If you fancy spicy foods like me, you could add some crushed red peppers on top as well.
Step 4: Cook your Italian chicken in slow cooker
Cover your slow cooker and set the heat level to low. Allow cooking for at least 6 hours without opening the lid during the first 3-4 hours as it would otherwise affect proper cooking temperatures and increase cooking time.
After six hours, remove the cover and use a fork to carefully shred or slice your cooked chicken into thin pieces if you would like or leave it whole as desired.
Your Slow Cooker Italian Chicken is now ready to be served with rice, pasta or potatoes!
Substitutions and Variations
Variety is the spice of life, and this recipe is no exception. Whether you’re running low on ingredients or just want to mix things up a bit, here are some substitutions and variations you can try with this Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Recipe:
– Instead of chicken breasts, try boneless skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful result.
– If you don’t have fresh rosemary on hand, substitute it with dried rosemary or another herb of your choice such as basil or oregano.
– Adjust the spice level to your taste by increasing or decreasing the amount of garlic powder or crushed red pepper flakes.
– For a heartier dish, add diced potatoes to the slow cooker when you add the chicken. It’s an excellent way to round out the meal and soak up all the delicious juices.
– If you’re looking to sneak in some extra veggies, try adding chopped bell peppers or even frozen green beans to the slow cooker. Then, add them about 30 minutes before serving so they stay crisp-tender.
– To make this recipe more economical, use diced canned tomatoes instead of fresh chopped tomatoes.
– Feeling extra hungry? Try serving this Italian chicken over spaghetti or penne pasta and toss it with some tomato sauce. It’s a meal everyone will enjoy!
Whether you’re looking to switch things up or substitute an ingredient here and there, these substitutions and variations will help make this Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Recipe all your own! So go ahead and get creative!
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving and pairing this Slow Cooker Italian Chicken recipe, the options are endless. The rich and savory flavor profile of this dish pairs well with a variety of sides ranging from grains, vegetables and potatoes.
One popular option is to serve the Italian chicken with pasta. The flavors of the sauce naturally complement a wide variety of pasta shapes like fusilli, ziti or rigatoni. This can be an excellent option for a more substantial meal.
Another classic pairing is potatoes. Roasted or mashed, potatoes can be a great side to absorb some of the delicious sauce and perfect when you want some carbs that will leave you feeling satisfied.
If you’re looking for an even lighter meal, try serving the chicken with a side salad full of crisp greens that offer necessary fiber to your diet. The freshness of the salad provides a great contrast to the rich flavors and decadent texture of the chicken.
To keep things low carb and keto-friendly, serve it over cauliflower rice, sautéed zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
And let’s not forget about green beans! They’re a simple side that won’t overpower the dish but still offer a much-needed nutritional dose of Vitamin A and C while adding some color on your plate that will make everything look Instagram-worthy.
If you’re looking to pair this dish with wine, go for a bottle of red with medium-high acidity such as Barbera d’Asti or Chianti Classico. Pinot Grigio is also an excellent choice if you prefer something lighter.
Overall, this Slow Cooker Italian Chicken recipe is versatile enough to work with almost any side dish or wine combination. Try experimenting with different options to find what works best for you or so-called “winning combo.”
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
There’s no denying that leftovers are a beautiful thing, especially when they’re as tasty as this slow cooker Italian chicken. Whether you need to make a big batch for a party or simply want to prepare the meal ahead of time, this recipe is ideal for make-ahead meals.
Once you’ve cooked the chicken, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 4 days, making it perfect for busy workweek dinners. You can also freeze the chicken and sauce together in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating the chicken is simple and easy. You can either toss it into a frying pan over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave it in 30-second intervals until heated to your liking. If you find that the dish has thickened up too much after being in the fridge or freezer, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen it back up.
In addition to reheating leftover chicken, there are also endless ways to repurpose it into different meals altogether. Shred the chicken and use it to top salads, sandwiches or tortilla wraps. Make hearty soups like chicken noodle soup or minestrone by adding leftover cooked vegetables and using broth as a base instead of tomato sauce. And if you’re feeling really adventurous, why not toss the shredded chicken with pasta and Alfredo sauce for creamy and dreamy chicken Alfredo? The possibilities are endless!
Tips for Perfect Results
Creating a mouth-watering, Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Recipe is easy with just the right ingredients and preparation. However, reaching perfection can be challenging. The recipe results can end up too dry, too wet or overly seasoned. To avoid those pitfalls, here are some helpful tips to make your Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Recipe a crowd-pleaser every time:
1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Starting with fresh carrots, celery and onions and using high-quality brands of tomato sauce and chopped tomatoes can elevate the overall flavor of your dish.
2. Don’t Overcook: Resist the urge to cook on high or for longer than suggested time. Overcooking chicken breasts can lead to a dry and unappetizing result. Ensure that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
3. Preheat the Slow Cooker: It’s essential to preheat your slow cooker before adding any ingredients. This will allow them to cook evenly and reach their full flavor potential.
4. Layer Your Ingredients: Place firmer vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions at the bottom; herb seasonings and chicken breast halves in the middle and softer (tomatoes) and mushrooms on top.
5. Add Flavor Boosters: Elevate your dish’s taste by using fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs, minced garlic cloves or add a splash of red wine vinegar.
6. Don’t Add Too Much Liquid: Even though liquids are necessary when slow-cooking, it’s best not to add too much liquid in the beginning stages of cooking. Additionally, if you’re using canned vegetables or tomatoes, you might not need to add any liquid at all.
7. Finish Your Dish off Right: After serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top of the finished dish to give it an extra pop of color and flavor.
By keeping these tips in mind while making your Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Recipe, you’ll achieve perfectly cooked chicken breasts topped with a robust tomato-based sauce with just enough tanginess to bring out other flavors in the dish. With this recipe result in hand, you’re sure to earn rave reviews from all your guests!
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Slow Cooker Italian Chicken recipe is perfect for anyone who loves easy and delicious meals. With the right ingredients and a little bit of effort, you can create something truly amazing that will leave your guests satisfied and impressed.
I have no doubts that you’ll love this dish as much as I do. It’s versatile, flavorful, and great for any occasion – from a romantic dinner to a big family gathering. Plus, it’s an ideal option for those who follow a Weight Watchers diet plan.
So, why not try this Slow Cooker Italian Chicken recipe today? I promise you won’t regret it. From the creamy chicken to the perfectly cooked potatoes and veggies, every bite will be a delight for your taste buds.
Don’t hesitate to make any necessary changes or add your own twist to the recipe according to your preferences. This dish is very easy to customize and make your own.
In summary, if you’re looking for a hearty and mouth-watering meal that’s simple to make but doesn’t compromise on taste or quality, then give this Slow Cooker Italian Chicken recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!
Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- non-stick cooking spray
- 1 small eggplant, peeled and cut in 1/2-inch cubes (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 1 medium onion, cut in thin half moons
- 1 celery rib, thinly sliced (about 1/2 cup)
- 1/2 large carrot, cut in thin half moons (about 1/2 cup)
- 1/2 cup baby portabella mushrooms, coarsely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 chicken breast halves, boneless, skinless still frozen
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 (14 -16 ounce) can chopped tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary
Instructions
- Spray cooker with nonstick. Place onions, carrot, celery, mushrooms and eggplant in cooker. Top with chicken breasts (still frozen).
- In bowl, combine tomato paste, tomatoes and their juice, tomato sauce, chopped garlic, spices and vinegar. Pour over chicken. Place rosemary sprig on top.
- Cover and cook on high 4-6 hours, propping open the lid with toothpick the last hour to thicken the sauce. If your cooker runs 'hot', check after 3 hours to see if it's almost done, then prop lid. If your cooker runs 'slower', check after 4 or 5 hours. You don't want to overcook the chicken as it will become dry. Once you know, you can note the cooking time on the recipe printout.
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Anna is a culinary expert who specializes in grilling delicious BBQ dishes. She also enjoys sharing her recipes and experiences with her foodie community on her blog. She’s the total package for any backyard barbecue!