The irresistible aroma of sun-dried tomatoes mingling with garlic is enough to draw anyone into the kitchen, and trust me, this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken will keep you coming back for more. On busy weeknights, when the last thing I want to do is spend hours at the stove, this easy crockpot dish comes to the rescue with minimal prep and maximum comfort. The tender chicken simmers gently in a luscious sauce made creamy with coconut milk and brightened by zesty lemon and fresh basil—a true crowd-pleaser for every palate. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate various dietary needs, making it gluten-free, dairy-free, and even Whole30 compliant! Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this soul-soothing recipe? Let’s dive in! Why is This Recipe a Must-Try? Comforting Ease: This Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken is the epitome of effortless cooking, perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to set it and forget it! Flavor Explosion: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and creamy coconut milk creates a symphony of flavors that are simply irresistible. Dietary-Friendly: Accommodating various diets, this dish is gluten-free, dairy-free, and adaptable to paleo or Whole30 diets. Versatile Options: Pair it with rice, zucchini noodles, or even enjoy it over mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal. Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a recipe that delights everyone at the table. Pair it with a crisp salad for a balanced meal! This dish truly transforms simple ingredients into something special—perfect for anyone looking to elevate their dinner game while keeping it wholesome. For more inspiring ideas, don’t forget to check out my other favorites, like Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas or Mango Chicken Stir. Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken Ingredients For the Chicken • Chicken breasts or thighs – Use thighs for extra flavor and moisture. For the Sauce • Sun-dried tomatoes – These add an intense sweetness and tang. Fresh tomatoes can be used, but adjust cooking time for moisture. • Coconut milk or heavy cream – Coconut milk is perfect for a dairy-free version, while heavy cream adds richness. • Grated parmesan cheese – Omit for dairy-free; consider nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor in a vegan version. • Garlic (minced) – Opt for fresh for the best flavor; garlic powder can be a backup if needed. • Dried oregano – Provides an herbaceous note; fresh oregano can be substituted for a brighter flavor. • Smoked paprika – This ingredient adds a delightful smokiness; adjust quantity according to your spice tolerance. • Crushed red pepper flakes – Add for a kick of heat; reduce or omit for milder versions. • Salt and black pepper – Essential for enhancing the dish’s flavors. For Freshness • Fresh basil (chopped) – Adds brightness to the dish just before serving; you can use parsley if necessary. • Lemon juice – A must for brightening the rich flavors of the dish. For Cooking • Olive oil – Incorporates healthy fat and flavor; substitute with butter for added richness if desired. For Accompaniment • Rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta – Your chosen base for serving; consider gluten-free options like cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for dietary needs. This Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken is not just easy to prepare, it’s the cozy comfort food you’ve been searching for! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken Step 1: Prepare the Base Begin by placing chicken breasts or thighs in a large crockpot. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, coconut milk or heavy cream, grated parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried oregano, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed around the chicken for a harmonious flavor profile. Step 2: Mix and Cook Gently stir the ingredients until the chicken is well-coated in the creamy mixture. Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. As it cooks, the chicken will tenderize, and the aroma of sun-dried tomatoes will fill your kitchen, signaling that a comforting meal is on the way. Step 3: Shred and Incorporate Once the cooking time is up, remove the lid and check that the chicken is tender enough to shred easily with two forks. If you prefer shredded chicken, gently pull it apart and return it to the sauce in the crockpot. This step allows the chicken to soak up even more of the delicious flavors from the creamy sauce. Step 4: Brighten the Dish Next, stir in the fresh lemon juice and olive oil, giving your Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken a refreshing lift. To add a delightful herbaceous note, fold in the chopped fresh basil. This combination not only enhances flavor but also adds a vibrant touch to your dish right before serving. Step 5: Serve and Enjoy Finally, dish out the chicken and sauce over your choice of accompaniment, such as rice, mashed potatoes, or gluten-free options like zucchini noodles. Garnish with additional fresh basil for an appealing presentation. Each serving will be a warm embrace of flavors, ready to be enjoyed by family and friends! What to Serve with Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken Enhance your cozy meal with complementary sides that bring out the flavors of this creamy and aromatic dish. Crispy Garlic Bread: Slices of golden-brown, buttery garlic bread provide a crunchy complement, perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture pairs beautifully with the sauce, creating a rich and satisfying mouthfeel that tempts every forkful. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers add freshness and color, complementing the savory flavors of the chicken while adding a nutrient boost. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, this light substitute absorbs the sauce well and adds a delightful crunch, making it a stellar base. Bright Arugula Salad: The peppery arugula dressed in lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast, cutting through the richness and adding a burst of freshness. Zucchini Noodles: These spiralized veggies provide a fun, light alternative to pasta, marrying well with the creamy sauce and keeping the meal wholesome. Crisp White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavors beautifully, balancing the creaminess with its acidity. Lemon Sorbet: A light, tangy end to your meal, this dessert refreshes the palate and cleanses the taste buds after the creamy chicken. Expert Tips for Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken • Choose Chicken Thighs: Opt for thighs over breasts for more flavor and moisture, leading to a more succulent dish. • Freshness Matters: Don’t skip the lemon juice and fresh basil added at the end; they provide necessary brightness that enhances the overall flavor. • Rest Before Serving: Allow the cooked chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps improve the sauce consistency for a better dining experience. • Thicker Sauce Tip: For a creamier sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking or add a cornstarch slurry to achieve your desired thickness. • Double the Recipe: This Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken is easy to double for larger gatherings, just be mindful not to overcrowd the crockpot for even cooking. Make Ahead Options These Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the ingredients up to 24 hours in advance by cutting the chicken, measuring out the spices, and combining the coconut milk, parmesan, and garlic in a separate container. Simply refrigerate everything in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, add the prepped ingredients to the crockpot, cook according to the instructions, and enjoy a comforting meal that tastes just as delicious! Consider shredding the chicken and stirring it back into the sauce right before serving to keep flavors vibrant and maintain that creamy texture. This way, you’ll save time during busy weeknights while still enjoying a warm, satisfying dish. How to Store and Freeze Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will keep the flavors intact while ensuring the chicken stays juicy. Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just remember to label it for easy identification later! Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and gently warm on the stove or microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of coconut milk or water can help restore creaminess. Make-Ahead Tip: This dish is perfect for meal prep. The flavors actually improve overnight, making it an ideal candidate for convenient, ready-to-eat leftovers. Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken Variations Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your taste buds or dietary preferences while savoring every mouthwatering bite! Gluten-Free: Replace traditional pasta with gluten-free alternatives such as quinoa or spiralized zucchini for a lighter, compliant dish. Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk as the base instead of cream, and omit the parmesan. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor. Paleo-Friendly: Skip the cheese and opt for fresh herbs as seasoning. Serve over sweet potato mash for a comforting, compliant dish. Extra Veggies: For more nutrition, stir in spinach or kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking, or add sautéed bell peppers for a colorful twist. Flavor Boost: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes with herbs or roasted garlic for an extra punch of umami and aroma. Cheesy Alternative: If you prefer more creaminess, blend in some ricotta or goat cheese just before serving for a richer texture. Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be used in place of oregano to bring different flavor notes to the dish. Spice it Up: Increase the heat level by adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a fiery kick at the end. This versatile dish can be adapted to suit any occasion! After enjoying this delightful meal, you may want to try my Caribbean Chicken Rice or a comforting One Pot Chicken Dumpling Soup for your next family dinner. Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! For this Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken, I recommend using chicken thighs instead of breasts. Thighs offer more flavor and retain moisture during the long cooking process, making them ideal for crockpot recipes. Look for thighs with a nice, deep color and minimal visible fat for the best results. How should I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the chicken down before refrigerating to retain its juiciness. If you’re planning to enjoy it later, just reheat on the stove or microwave until heated through. Can I freeze Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken? Very! For long-term storage, you can freeze the Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to label your container with the date, so you know when you made it. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. What if my sauce is too thin? No need to worry! If you find that your sauce is too thin after cooking, there are a couple of ways to thicken it. First, remove the lid of your crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking to let some moisture evaporate. Alternatively, you can create a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, stir it into the sauce, and cook for an additional 15 minutes to thicken. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Absolutely! This recipe is quite versatile. For a gluten-free option, just ensure that any accompanying grains or pasta are also gluten-free. If you’re avoiding dairy, stick with the coconut milk and omit the parmesan cheese, or substitute it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Always check labels if you’re serving others with allergies or dietary restrictions. How can I adjust the spice level in this dish? Very! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes altogether. For those who love a kick, feel free to add fresh chilies or increase the amount of red pepper. Customizing spice levels is one of the great parts about cooking—make it your own! Savory Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken for Cozy Nights This Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken is a comforting, easy dish made with succulent chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy sauce, perfect for busy nights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 6 hours hrsResting Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 6 hours hrs 25 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: Chicken, Main CourseCuisine: AmericanCalories: 490 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken2 pounds Chicken breasts or thighs Use thighs for extra flavor and moisture.For the Sauce1 cup Sun-dried tomatoes These add an intense sweetness and tang.1 can Coconut milk Perfect for a dairy-free version; substitute with heavy cream for richness.1/2 cup Grated parmesan cheese Omit for dairy-free; use nutritional yeast for a vegan option.4 cloves Garlic (minced) Opt for fresh for the best flavor.1 teaspoon Dried oregano Provides an herbaceous note.1 teaspoon Smoked paprika Adjust quantity according to spice tolerance.1/2 teaspoon Crushed red pepper flakes Add for heat; reduce or omit for milder versions.1 teaspoon Salt Essential for enhancing flavor.1/2 teaspoon Black pepper Essential for enhancing flavor.For Freshness1/4 cup Fresh basil (chopped) Adds brightness to the dish.2 tablespoons Lemon juice Must for brightening flavors.For Cooking2 tablespoons Olive oil Incorporates healthy fat.For Accompaniment4 servings Rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta Consider gluten-free options. Equipment Crockpot Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPlace chicken breasts or thighs in a large crockpot. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, coconut milk or heavy cream, grated parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried oregano, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.Gently stir the ingredients until the chicken is well-coated in the creamy mixture. Cover the crockpot and set to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.Once cooking time is up, check that the chicken is tender enough to shred easily. Shred the chicken with two forks and return it to the sauce.Stir in the fresh lemon juice and olive oil. Fold in the chopped fresh basil.Serve the chicken and sauce over your choice of accompaniment, garnished with additional fresh basil. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 490kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 38gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 19gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 130mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg NotesThis dish is easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep. It can be doubled for larger gatherings. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
