Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with this delightful recipe for Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Chicken. Tender chicken breasts, creamy spinach and artichoke sauce, and a blend of savory cheeses come together in the slow cooker for a meal that’s both comforting and delicious. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering dish!
If you’re a fan of creamy spinach and artichoke dip, you’re going to love this spin on a classic appetizer. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can transform ordinary chicken breasts into a gourmet meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this slow cooker recipe is a winner every time.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 (10-ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and well-drained
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Place them in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add the Spinach and Artichokes: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped artichoke hearts and thawed spinach. Spread this mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream, softened cream cheese, chicken broth, and shredded Parmesan cheese until smooth. Pour this creamy mixture over the chicken, spinach, and artichokes in the slow cooker.
- Cook Slow and Low: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Serve Hot: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and transfer it to a serving platter. Spoon the creamy spinach and artichoke sauce over the chicken breasts.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish the dish with additional shredded Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Extra Flavor: Add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Fresh Spinach: If you prefer fresh spinach, you can blanch it briefly before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients, including chicken broth and cream cheese, are gluten-free if you need to adhere to a gluten-free diet.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here are some modifications you can make to enjoy this recipe:
- Low-Carb Thickener: Use xanthan gum or a small amount of almond flour to thicken the sauce instead of flour or cornstarch.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute dairy-free alternatives such as coconut cream or almond milk for the sour cream and cream cheese.
- Serve Over Vegetables: Instead of serving the chicken with pasta or rice, enjoy it over steamed cauliflower rice or sautéed zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts? A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe. Just be sure to increase the cooking time in the slow cooker to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
Q: Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of the slow cooker? A: Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly and golden.
Q: Can I use fresh artichokes instead of canned? A: Absolutely! If you have fresh artichokes available, you can steam or boil them until tender, then chop them and use them in this recipe.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Creamy Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Chicken is the perfect combination of comfort and convenience. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner at home or entertaining guests, this recipe is a winner every time. So dust off your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy a deliciously easy dinner that’s sure to impress!
