This Easy Slow Cooker Italian Chicken is a winner for busy days! Just toss chicken with tomatoes, spices, and veggies, and let your slow cooker do the magic.
The best part? You come home to a warm, tasty meal that’s so simple to make! I love serving it over pasta or rice—it’s like a warm hug on a plate! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to work with and stay moist during cooking. You can substitute with boneless thighs for a richer flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
Italian Seasoning Mix: This blend adds great flavor to your dish. If you can’t find a mix, use dried oregano, basil, and thyme in equal parts. Homemade mixes allow you to control the flavor based on your taste.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds nutrition and a pop of color. You could easily use kale or Swiss chard instead if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to chop them into smaller pieces for quicker wilting.
Rice: While this recipe uses cooked rice, you could swap it for quinoa or couscous for a different texture. Remember to adjust the cooking times based on the grain you choose.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken in a slow cooker is straightforward, but it’s important to get the timing right. Here’s how:
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Don’t overcrowd!
- Set on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, checking for doneness. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- For shredding, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before using forks, as it will pull apart easier when warm.
How to Make Easy Slow Cooker Italian Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 packet Italian seasoning mix (about 1 ounce)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Vegetables and Serving:
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 10 minutes to prepare, plus cooking time. You can expect to cook the chicken on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours in the slow cooker. It’s a perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Sprinkle some salt and pepper on top, then add the Italian seasoning mix evenly over the chicken. This will give your dish a delicious flavor!
2. Add the Liquid:
Next, pour the chicken broth over the seasoned chicken, and drizzle the olive oil on top. This will keep the chicken moist and tasty as it cooks. Give it a little gentle stir if you’d like, but it’s not necessary!
3. Slow Cook the Chicken:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Now it’s time to let it cook! Choose to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is tender and fully cooked through. Yum!
4. Add the Spinach:
About 30 minutes before serving, add the fresh spinach to the slow cooker. Gently stir it in with the chicken to combine, allowing it to wilt as everything finishes cooking. This adds a lovely color and nutrition!
5. Prepare the Rice:
While the chicken is cooking, prepare your rice according to the package instructions. You can use white rice, brown rice, or whatever you prefer. Set it aside when done.
6. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is tender, take two forks and shred it right in the slow cooker. Stir it together with the wilted spinach and broth, making it all deliciously mingled.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
To serve, spoon the hearty chicken and spinach mixture over a bed of cooked rice. If you like, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra special touch. Enjoy your delightful Easy Slow Cooker Italian Chicken meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s best to thaw them first for even cooking. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. If cooking from frozen, you may need to extend the cooking time by an hour on low or 30 minutes on high.
What If I Don’t Have Italian Seasoning Mix?
No problem! You can make your own blend using dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. A good ratio is 1 teaspoon of each spice for a total of 4 teaspoons. Adjust as per your taste preference!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Substitute the Rice with Something Else?
Absolutely! You can swap the rice for quinoa, couscous, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times as necessary, particularly if you choose a grain that cooks differently than rice.
