sun dried tomato crockpot chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sun Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken is one of those effortless dishes that tastes far more complex than the work required. The slow cooker transforms simple ingredients into tender, juicy chicken nestled in a rich, creamy sun dried tomato sauce infused with garlic and herbs. It’s perfect for busy weekdays, yet impressive enough for guests. I especially appreciate how forgiving the recipe is—whether using breasts or thighs, fresh herbs or dried seasoning, the dish always comes out beautifully. I once substituted almond milk for regular milk to lighten the sauce, and it still maintained a lovely creaminess. Serve this over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, and you’ll have a hearty meal bursting with Mediterranean-inspired flavor. It’s comforting, convenient, and absolutely packed with vibrant, savory depth.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken Breasts or Thighs

Become tender and flavorful as they slowly absorb the creamy, tomato-infused sauce.

Sun Dried Tomatoes (in Oil)

Provide sweet, tangy richness and a concentrated tomato flavor that defines the dish.

Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half

Creates the creamy base of the sauce; almond milk can work for a lighter version.

Garlic

Infuses the entire crockpot with savory, aromatic depth.

Chicken Broth

Adds moisture and helps balance the richness of the cream and tomatoes.

Parmesan Cheese

Melts into the sauce for salty, nutty depth and a luxurious finish.

Italian Seasoning

Brings herbaceous notes that complement the tomatoes and cream perfectly.

Onion Powder

Adds subtle sweetness and complexity without needing chopped onions.

Salt and Black Pepper

Enhance and elevate every element of the sauce and chicken.

Spinach (Optional)

Stirs in at the end for extra color, nutrients, and freshness.

Directions

Begin by placing the chicken breasts or thighs into the bottom of your slow cooker. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and onion powder. Add minced garlic and chopped sun dried tomatoes over the top. Pour chicken broth around the sides of the crockpot so the spices stay mostly on the chicken. Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or on high for 2½–3 hours, depending on the cut and thickness of your chicken.

Once the chicken is tender, stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan. Mix gently so the sauce becomes smooth and the cheese fully melts. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the lid stay slightly ajar for the final 20–30 minutes. For added color and freshness, stir in fresh spinach during the last 10 minutes; it will wilt beautifully into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes so the sauce clings perfectly to the chicken.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4–6 servings. Prep time is about 10 minutes, with 5–6 hours on low or 2½–3 hours on high in the crockpot.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if the sauce thickens too much. This dish freezes moderately well; thaw overnight and reheat slowly to preserve the creaminess.

Variations and Customizations

Spinach and Artichoke Version

Add chopped artichoke hearts along with spinach for a Mediterranean-style twist.

Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Boost

Stir a spoonful of sun dried tomato pesto into the sauce for even deeper flavor.

Creamy Basil Chicken

Add fresh basil at the end for aromatic, Italian-inspired freshness.

Extra-Cheesy Upgrade

Add mozzarella or fontina for a richer, stretchier sauce.

Low-Carb Option

Serve over cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables instead of pasta.

Mushroom Addition

Add sliced mushrooms at the beginning for earthy depth.

Spicy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Add crushed red pepper flakes or chili paste to bring heat.

Dairy-Free Adaptation

Use coconut milk instead of cream and dairy-free Parmesan alternatives.

Lemon-Scented Variation

Add fresh lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

Herb-Heavy Blend

Mix fresh oregano or thyme into the sauce for stronger herbal notes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken in the crockpot?

It’s safer to use thawed chicken to ensure even cooking.

Do sun dried tomatoes in oil work best?

Yes, they add flavor and moisture, but dry-packed can be rehydrated.

Can I use almond milk?

Yes, I’ve done it before and it produces a lighter, still creamy sauce.

Will thighs or breasts work better?

Both work well; thighs stay extra juicy.

Can I add pasta directly to the crockpot?

It’s best to cook pasta separately and serve the chicken over it.

What if the sauce is too thin?

Leave the lid slightly open for 20 minutes or add more Parmesan.

Can I use fresh tomatoes?

They won’t provide the same rich, concentrated flavor as sun dried tomatoes.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your broth and Parmesan are gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just ensure your crockpot size allows proper circulation.

How do I keep the cream from curdling?

Add cream near the end and avoid boiling.

Conclusion

Sun Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken is a richly flavored, effortlessly prepared meal that brings together creamy sauce, tender chicken, and the unmistakable sweetness of sun dried tomatoes. It’s the perfect example of how simple slow-cooker recipes can feel elegant and deeply satisfying. Whether served over pasta, rice, or vegetables, this dish offers comfort and convenience without sacrificing flavor. It’s a recipe you’ll want to revisit again and again.

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