Italian Slow Cooker Chicken and Mushrooms: A Flavorful and Convenient Meal
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this delicious recipe for Italian Slow Cooker Chicken and Mushrooms. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this dish combines tender chicken breasts, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic herbs in a savory tomato-based sauce. Let your slow cooker do the work as you sit back and enjoy the tantalizing aroma of Italian cuisine filling your kitchen. Get ready to delight your taste buds with this easy and satisfying meal!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 pound fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker in a single layer.
- Add the Mushrooms and Aromatics: Layer the sliced mushrooms, chopped onion, and minced garlic over the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Mix the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir until well combined.
- Pour Over Chicken and Mushrooms: Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and mushrooms in the slow cooker, ensuring that everything is evenly coated.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the chicken and mushrooms. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with water to create a slurry and stir it into the sauce during the last hour of cooking.
- Adding Wine: For an extra depth of flavor, you can substitute some or all of the chicken broth with dry white wine.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version of this dish. You can also add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added flavor and nutrients.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
- Keto Version: To make a keto-friendly version of this recipe, omit the diced tomatoes and replace them with a can of crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce with no added sugar. Reduce the amount of onion used or omit it altogether to lower the carb content. Serve the chicken and mushrooms over cauliflower rice or with a side of steamed vegetables for a low-carb meal option.
- Low-Carb Version: Use fewer mushrooms and onions to reduce the carb content of the dish. You can also use tomato sauce instead of diced tomatoes to lower the carb count further. Serve the chicken and mushrooms over spaghetti squash or with a side of sautéed greens for a low-carb twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Yes, bone-in chicken thighs can be used in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in cuts may take slightly longer to cook in the slow cooker.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this dish? A: Absolutely! Leftover Italian Slow Cooker Chicken and Mushrooms can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this dish? A: Yes, feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on the vegetables you choose.
Q: Can I make this dish spicy? A: Yes, you can add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat level of the dish according to your taste preferences.
Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones? A: Yes, you can substitute dried herbs for fresh ones in this recipe. Just use about half the amount of dried herbs called for in the recipe, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
Italian Slow Cooker Chicken and Mushrooms is a comforting and flavorful meal that is sure to satisfy your cravings for Italian cuisine. With its tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and aromatic herbs, this dish is a winner for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this slow cooker recipe is a convenient and delicious option. So gather your ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Italy in the comfort of your own home!
