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Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

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Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is the kind of dinner that feels indulgent yet effortless, the type of meal that quietly impresses without demanding hours in the kitchen. Tender chicken breasts simmer slowly in a rich, velvety sauce infused with herbs, Parmesan, and deeply flavorful sun-dried tomatoes. Every bite delivers comfort, warmth, and that unmistakable sense of a meal made with care.

This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes recipe brings together bold, savory flavors with a streamlined approach that fits real life. With just a short prep time, the slow cooker takes over, transforming simple ingredients into something that tastes restaurant-worthy. The sauce stays smooth and cohesive, clinging beautifully to the chicken and whatever you choose to serve it with.

I first started leaning on slow cooker meals during seasons when time felt stretched thin, yet the desire for comforting food remained strong. There was something reassuring about setting everything in motion early in the day and coming back to a finished meal that smelled incredible. This dish quickly became a favorite because it offered that sense of reward without stress. It felt generous, nourishing, and special, even on the busiest days.

Tender chicken slow-cooked in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and herbs.
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Skillet

Method
 

  1. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear chicken briefly on both sides.
  2. Place chicken in the slow cooker. Add sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, Italian seasoning, and chicken broth.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours until chicken is tender.
  4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cover and cook an additional 20 minutes.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve warm over pasta, rice, or polenta.

Nutrition

Calories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 38gFat: 32gSaturated Fat: 17gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 145mgSodium: 720mgPotassium: 640mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 18IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Best served over pasta, polenta, or with crusty bread. Sauce reheats well without separating.

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Why Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes Stands Out

Deep flavor with minimal effort

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes works because it layers flavor thoughtfully. Sun-dried tomatoes bring concentrated sweetness and acidity, infusing the sauce as they soften. Herbs add warmth and aroma, while Parmesan deepens the savory profile. The slow cooker gives these ingredients time to meld, creating complexity without extra steps.

Because the chicken cooks gently, it stays tender and juicy. The sauce develops slowly, absorbing every note of flavor along the way. This method allows the dish to taste like it simmered all day, even though the prep takes just minutes.

Creamy texture without fuss

One of the most satisfying parts of this recipe is its silky sauce. Heavy cream and Parmesan work together to create a rich, stable texture that does not separate. There is no need for flour or a roux, which keeps the process simple and approachable.

As the sauce cooks, it thickens naturally, coating the chicken in a smooth, luxurious layer. The result is comforting without being heavy, making Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes a dish you can enjoy often.

Ingredients That Bring It All Together

The role of sun-dried tomatoes

Sun-dried tomatoes are the heart of this dish. Their chewy texture and concentrated flavor dissolve into the sauce as it cooks, adding depth and complexity. They provide a balance of sweetness and acidity that keeps the creaminess from feeling flat.

Choosing good-quality sun-dried tomatoes makes a noticeable difference. Whether packed in oil or dry-packed and rehydrated, they bring intensity that transforms the entire dish.

Building richness with dairy and herbs

Heavy cream forms the base of the sauce, offering richness and body. Parmesan cheese adds umami and saltiness, enhancing the overall flavor. Garlic and dried herbs round everything out, creating a warm, savory backdrop that complements the chicken perfectly.

These ingredients are simple, yet together they create a sauce that feels indulgent and comforting. Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes relies on balance rather than excess.

How to Prepare Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Simple prep for maximum payoff

Begin by lightly seasoning the chicken and searing it briefly in a skillet. This step adds color and locks in juices, setting the stage for better flavor. While optional, it elevates the final dish without adding much time.

Once seared, place the chicken in the slow cooker and add the sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and broth. Everything comes together quickly, allowing you to move on with your day.

Slow cooking to perfection

As the chicken cooks, the sauce slowly develops its signature creaminess. Near the end, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan, allowing them to melt smoothly into the liquid. This timing preserves the sauce’s texture and ensures it stays cohesive.

By the time Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is finished, the chicken is fork-tender and the sauce is rich and glossy. A brief rest before serving lets everything settle into perfect harmony.

Serving Ideas and Pairings

Classic ways to enjoy it

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes pairs beautifully with pasta, polenta, or rice. These bases soak up the sauce, making every bite satisfying. Crusty bread is another excellent option, perfect for capturing every last drop.

A simple green salad or steamed vegetables balance the richness and add freshness to the plate. Together, these elements create a complete, comforting meal.

Leftovers and meal prep

This dish stores well and reheats gently, making it ideal for meal prep. The flavors deepen overnight, often tasting even better the next day. Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes can be enjoyed for lunches or repurposed into wraps or bowls.

Because it freezes well, it is also a thoughtful option for preparing meals ahead of time or sharing with others.

FAQ

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and become especially tender in the slow cooker.

Will the sauce separate when reheated?
No, the cream and Parmesan create a stable sauce that reheats smoothly over low heat.

Can I make this dairy-free?
You can substitute coconut cream and omit the Parmesan, though the flavor will change slightly.

How long should it cook in the slow cooker?
Cook on low for 4–5 hours or until the chicken is fully tender.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Conclusion

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes delivers everything you want from a comforting dinner: rich flavor, tender chicken, and a sauce that feels indulgent without complication. With minimal prep and a slow cooker doing the work, it fits effortlessly into busy schedules while still feeling special. Once you try it, this recipe becomes a dependable favorite for both everyday meals and moments when you want to impress with ease.

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