Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken with Creamy Polenta in Crockpot

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Have you ever come home after a long day and wished for a meal that’s full of flavor but doesn’t take hours in the kitchen? This Crockpot Sun Dried Tomato Chicken recipe is just what you need, blending ease with delicious tastes that make dinner feel special. It’s packed with juicy chicken and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, creating a dish that’s perfect for busy parents or anyone juggling a hectic schedule. You’ll find it becomes a go-to option for weeknights when you want something hearty without the fuss.

One of the best parts about this recipe is how it supports your health goals while tasting amazing. The chicken provides lean protein that keeps you full, and the sun-dried tomatoes add vitamins and antioxidants to boost your daily nutrients. Whether you’re a student looking for quick meals or a food enthusiast exploring new flavors, this dish adapts to different needs while keeping things simple and satisfying. Plus, its rich, savory profile makes it stand out from basic chicken recipes, turning ordinary ingredients into something truly enjoyable.

This recipe shines with its flexibility for all kinds of eaters, from diet-conscious folks to families with varied tastes. You can tweak it for gluten-free options or make it lighter without losing that bold flavor. Imagine serving it up with creamy polenta for a comforting touch that feels like a hug in a bowl it’s that kind of meal that brings everyone together around the table. For more ideas on tasty chicken dishes, check out our spinach and mushroom chicken bake that pairs well with this one.

Essential Ingredients for Crockpot Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Getting the right ingredients is key to making this Crockpot Sun Dried Tomato Chicken turn out just right. Each item plays a role in building layers of flavor, from the tangy tomatoes to the creamy sauce. I’ll walk you through a structured list based on what works best, so you can shop easily and get cooking without any guesswork. Remember, precise measurements help ensure your dish comes out perfect every time.

• 1 jar (≈225 g) sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained (reserve 2 Tbsp oil)
• 2 lb (≈900 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 shallot, minced (≈15 g)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (≈6 g)
• 1 Tbsp (≈6 g) Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp (≈2 g) paprika
• salt, to taste
• freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• chili flakes, to taste (≈¼ tsp)
• 1 Tbsp (≈15 g) creamy Dijon mustard
• 1 Tbsp (≈15 g) grainy Dijon mustard
• ½ cup (120 ml) dry white wine (optional substitute: rice-wine vinegar)
• 2 Tbsp (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream (optional substitute: canned coconut cream)
• ¾ cup (≈75 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese plus optional rind
• 2 cup (≈60 g) fresh spinach, loosely packed

These ingredients come together to create a balanced meal that’s both nutritious and full of taste. For instance, the sun-dried tomatoes bring a concentrated burst of flavor, while the chicken keeps things protein-packed. If you’re watching your diet, swaps like coconut cream can make it dairy-free without losing the creamy texture.

How to Prepare the Perfect Crockpot Sun Dried Tomato Chicken: Step-by-Step Guide

Let’s dive into making this Crockpot Sun Dried Tomato Chicken it’s simpler than you might think and results in a meal you’ll want to make again and again. Start by gathering your ingredients to keep things smooth and stress-free in the kitchen. This method uses a slow cooker for tender chicken that’s infused with rich flavors, perfect for busy days when you need hands-off cooking.

First, season the chicken by rubbing it with the minced shallot, garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, both mustards, salt, pepper, and chili flakes. This step builds a flavorful base that makes every bite amazing. Next, drain the sun-dried tomatoes and reserve 2 Tbsp of the oil; chop the rest finely and set them aside for later.

1. Place the reserved oil in the Crockpot and add the chopped tomatoes.
2. Lay the seasoned chicken on top.
3. Pour the wine (or vinegar) over the chicken, then add the lemon juice and Parmesan rind if you’re using it.
4. Cover and cook on low for 2-4 hours or on high for 1-2 hours until the chicken is tender.
5. Remove the chicken to a sheet pan, then switch the pot to high and stir in the cream, spinach, and Parmesan until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens.
6. Brush the chicken with the reserved oil and broil for 2-5 minutes to crisp the top; finally, serve the sauce over the chicken.

This step-by-step approach ensures your dish turns out juicy and full of flavor, especially when paired with creamy polenta. For another easy chicken idea, try our Crockpot steak and potato bake for variety in your meal rotation. Remember, this recipe adapts to Instant-Pot or stovetop if needed, so you can switch methods based on what you have.

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Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Crockpot Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Making this Crockpot Sun Dried Tomato Chicken fit your needs is all about smart swaps that keep the taste intact. Whether you’re aiming for a vegan version or something lighter, these changes make it flexible for everyone at the table. It’s a great way to enjoy the dish while meeting dietary goals, like reducing calories or avoiding certain allergens.

• Swap chicken breasts with turkey breast for a leaner protein option.
• Use firm tofu or tempeh to create a vegan-friendly alternative.
• Try chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier texture.
• Replace sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a sweeter flavor.
• Add spinach or kale for extra nutrients and color.
• Substitute dried basil in the Italian seasoning with fresh rosemary or thyme for new herb notes.
• Use low-sodium vegetable broth instead of wine for sodium restrictions.
• Incorporate chili flakes to add subtle heat if you love spice.

These tweaks help maintain the dish’s appeal, whether you’re cooking for diet-conscious individuals or families with preferences. For example, using canned coconut cream instead of heavy cream keeps it dairy-free and just as creamy, making it ideal for various lifestyles.

Mastering Crockpot Sun Dried Tomato Chicken: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, take your Crockpot Sun Dried Tomato Chicken to the next level with these handy tips. Searing the chicken in a skillet first locks in juices and adds a nice texture, turning a simple meal into something extraordinary. Experimenting with flavors can make it feel fresh each time, like adding olives for a Mediterranean vibe. Visit this resource to learn more about the health perks of chicken that make it a smart choice.

For flavor variations, try mixing in smoked paprika or sun-dried tomato pesto to deepen the taste. Presentation matters too serve it over creamy polenta with a garnish of fresh basil for a wow factor at dinner. If you’re prepping ahead, assemble everything in the Crockpot insert the night before and refrigerate it for easy cooking the next day. This method is perfect for working professionals who want meals ready with minimal effort.

I always say, a little extra care in the kitchen can turn a regular weeknight dinner into a memorable event just like when I made this for friends and they asked for seconds!

Quick Variations for Different Diets

Adjusting for dietary needs doesn’t have to be complicated. For a dairy-free option, swap heavy cream with canned coconut cream to keep the sauce rich and silky. If alcohol is a concern, use rice-wine vinegar or chicken broth in place of wine. Cutting the sun-dried tomatoes into small pieces ensures even flavor distribution, and for larger batches, add extra cooking time to keep everything tender.

How to Store Crockpot Sun Dried Tomato Chicken: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your Crockpot Sun Dried Tomato Chicken tasting fresh for leftovers. Put it in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days to lock in flavors. Freezing is another great option portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2-3 months. To learn about the benefits of sun-dried tomatoes, check out this helpful guide.

When reheating, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid drying it out. For meal prep, divide it into servings for quick lunches, and always label containers with dates. This way, you can enjoy the dish throughout the week without any waste, making it ideal for busy parents or students.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Crockpot Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

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• Author: Brandi Oshea
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Diet: Non‑vegetarian

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Description

🍅 Sun‑dried tomatoes give this chicken a deep, tangy flavor while the creamy sauce keeps it luxuriously rich.
🕰️ The slow‑cooker method makes it hands‑free, perfect for busy weeknights and dinner gatherings.

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Ingredients

– 1 jar (≈225 g) sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained (reserve 2 Tbsp oil)

– 2 lb (≈900 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

– 1 shallot, minced (≈15 g)

– 2 cloves garlic, minced (≈6 g)

– 1 Tbsp (≈6 g) Italian seasoning

– 1 tsp (≈2 g) paprika

– salt, to taste

– freshly ground black pepper, to taste

– chili flakes, to taste (≈¼ tsp)

– 1 Tbsp (≈15 g) creamy Dijon mustard

– 1 Tbsp (≈15 g) grainy Dijon mustard

– ½ cup (120 ml) dry white wine (optional substitute: rice-wine vinegar)

– 2 Tbsp (30 ml) fresh lemon juice

– 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream (optional substitute: canned coconut cream)

– ¾ cup (≈75 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese plus optional rind

– 2 cup (≈60 g) fresh spinach, loosely packed

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Instructions

1-Place the reserved oil in the Crockpot and add the chopped tomatoes.

2-Lay the seasoned chicken on top.

3-Pour the wine (or vinegar) over the chicken, then add the lemon juice and Parmesan rind if you’re using it.

4-Cover and cook on low for 2-4 hours or on high for 1-2 hours until the chicken is tender.

5-Remove the chicken to a sheet pan, then switch the pot to high and stir in the cream, spinach, and Parmesan until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens.

6-Brush the chicken with the reserved oil and broil for 2-5 minutes to crisp the top; finally, serve the sauce over the chicken.

Notes

🧂 Use the reserved tomato oil to brush the chicken before the final broil for extra flavor and crispness.
🌿 Cut the sun‑dried tomatoes into small pieces for even distribution throughout the sauce.
🥥 For a dairy‑free version, replace heavy cream with canned coconut cream; the dish stays rich and silky.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 2-4 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Crockpot (slow cooker)
• Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with sauce
• Calories: 398

Keywords: sun dried tomato chicken, crockpot creamy chicken, polenta pairing, slow cooker dinner