Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Chicken
Are you ready to indulge in a creamy, savory dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate? This Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Chicken is a delightful fusion of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. With tender chicken breasts simmered to perfection, complemented by rich cream cheese, artichokes, and fresh spinach, this recipe is a must-try for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also packs a nutritious punch, making it a fantastic addition to your meal rotation. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Chicken. First and foremost, it’s incredibly simple—just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you! The combination of spinach and artichokes brings a burst of flavor and nutrients, while the cream cheese and Parmesan give it that signature creamy texture we all crave. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve over rice, pasta, or even in a sandwich. Your family and friends will be begging for seconds!
What to Buy
Before we get cooking, here’s what you’ll need for this scrumptious dish:
- 8 cups spinach, loosely packed and chopped
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 4 chicken breast filets
- 3 garlic cloves, fresh and chopped
- 1/4 sweet onion, finely chopped
- 4 tablespoons cream cheese (reduced-fat but not fat-free)
- 4 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, shredded
- 14 ounces artichoke hearts, canned and preservative-free or 6-8 artichoke hearts from a jar, drained and chopped
- 1 cup grape tomatoes or cherry tomatoes, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Must-Have Equipment
To whip up this delightful dish, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:
- Slow Cooker: The star of the show! A 4 to 6-quart model is ideal.
- Chopping Board: For prepping your veggies and chicken.
- Knife: A sharp one will make chopping your ingredients a breeze.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For mixing everything together before cooking.
Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Chicken Cooking Guide
Let’s get started on making this Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Chicken!
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Wash and chop your spinach, tomatoes, onion, and garlic. Drain and chop the artichoke hearts if using jarred ones.
Step 2: Layer Everything in the Slow Cooker
In your slow cooker, begin by placing the chicken breast filets at the bottom. Next, layer the chopped spinach, artichokes, garlic, sweet onion, and chopped tomatoes on top.
Step 3: Add the Creaminess
Dollop the cream cheese over the top of the layered ingredients, followed by sprinkling the Parmesan cheese evenly.
Step 4: Pour in the Broth
Carefully add the chicken broth to the slow cooker. This will help keep everything moist and flavorful as it cooks.
Step 5: Season to Taste
Sprinkle salt and pepper over the dish according to your preference. Remember, you can always adjust the seasoning later!
Step 6: Set It and Forget It
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and tender.
Step 7: Shred and Serve
Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the slow cooker. Stir everything together until well combined, and taste for seasoning. Serve warm over rice, pasta, or simply on its own for a satisfying meal!
Spring–Summer–Fall–Winter Ideas
This dish is perfect all year round! Here are some seasonal ideas to keep it exciting:
- Spring: Serve with a side of fresh asparagus or a crisp garden salad.
- Summer: Enjoy it wrapped in lettuce leaves for a refreshing take.
- Fall: Pair with roasted sweet potatoes for a cozy meal.
- Winter: Serve with warm crusty bread to soak up the creamy goodness.
Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them
While this recipe is fairly straightforward, here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overcooking the Chicken: Check the chicken for doneness a bit earlier than the recommended time, especially if your slow cooker runs hot.
- Too Much Liquid: If you prefer a thicker consistency, reduce the chicken broth to 2 tablespoons or omit it entirely.
- Not Enough Seasoning: Always taste before serving! Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
- Undercooked Vegetables: Make sure your veggies are fresh and well-chopped to ensure they cook through.
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
You may find yourself with leftovers of this delicious Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Chicken, and that’s a good thing! Here’s how to handle it:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it up in a saucepan or microwave until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth if it seems too thick!
Common Qs About Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Chicken
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes! You can substitute frozen spinach for fresh. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the slow cooker to avoid excess moisture.
What can I serve with this dish?
This Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Chicken is delicious over rice, quinoa, or pasta. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the chicken for chickpeas or a hearty plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delightful vegetarian version.
How spicy is this recipe?
This recipe is not spicy, but you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you want to give it a little kick!
Weekend Projects
If you’re inspired to keep the cooking momentum going, here are some weekend projects to try:
- Sally’s Baking Addiction – Check out her delicious dessert recipes!
- Pinch of Yum – A great source for healthy and delicious meals.
- Minimalist Baker – Explore easy vegan recipes that are sure to impress!
Bring It to the Table
Now that you’ve mastered this Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Chicken, it’s time to share it with family and friends. Imagine the aroma wafting through your home as you serve this creamy delight at the dinner table. Not only will it be a hit, but it’s also a dish that brings people together. Enjoy the smiles, the laughter, and the satisfaction of a meal well made.
This recipe is more than just a dinner; it’s an experience. So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a wholesome, comforting meal that you’ll want to make again and again. Happy cooking!
Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash and chop your spinach, tomatoes, onion, and garlic. Drain and chop the artichoke hearts if using jarred ones.
- In your slow cooker, begin by placing the chicken breast filets at the bottom. Next, layer the chopped spinach, artichokes, garlic, sweet onion, and chopped tomatoes on top.
- Dollop the cream cheese over the top of the layered ingredients, followed by sprinkling the Parmesan cheese evenly.
- Carefully add the chicken broth to the slow cooker. This will help keep everything moist and flavorful as it cooks.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper over the dish according to your preference. Remember, you can always adjust the seasoning later!
- Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and tender.
- Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the slow cooker. Stir everything together until well combined, and taste for seasoning. Serve warm over rice, pasta, or simply on its own for a satisfying meal!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up in a saucepan or microwave.
