Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, flavor-packed meal that almost makes itself, you have to try this Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken. This dish brings together tender, juicy chicken simmered slowly in a luscious, creamy sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan, and fragrant herbs. The result? A rich and satisfying dinner that’s bursting with savory, slightly tangy, and smoky notes—all effortlessly created by your trusty slow cooker. Whether you’re new to crockpot cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is guaranteed to become one of your weeknight favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken recipe is simple but essential, lending layers of flavor and creating that irresistible creamy texture and vibrant color you’ll love. Here’s what you need to bring this dish to life:

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Choose your preferred cut for juicy, tender meat that soaks up all the sauce.
• 1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped: These add an intense, tangy sweetness and a beautiful red hue to the sauce.
• 1 cup full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream: Creaminess is key for that comforting texture and balanced richness.
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty depth that makes the sauce irresistible.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic enhances all the savory flavors and adds a subtle bite.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers an earthy, Mediterranean touch to the mix.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky warmth, elevating the overall flavor complexity.
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Just a touch of heat to keep things lively without overpowering.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (plus more for garnish): Delivers a fresh, aromatic burst that brightens the dish beautifully.
• Juice of 1/2 lemon: A splash of acidity that enhances and ties all the flavors together.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps meld the sauce ingredients perfectly.
• Cooked rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta for serving: Your choice of starch that will soak up all the delicious sauce.

How to Make Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Base Ingredients

Start by placing the chicken breasts or thighs directly into your crockpot. This slow cooking will ensure the chicken becomes tender and juicy. Next, add your chopped sun-dried tomatoes, which will infuse the meat with their concentrated, tangy flavor. Pour in the full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream alongside the parmesan cheese to create a rich, creamy sauce that perfectly balances the acidity and savoriness.

Step 2: Add the Seasonings

In goes the minced garlic for that essential aromatic base, plus dried oregano for an earthy Mediterranean note. Sprinkle in smoked paprika to introduce a subtle smokiness and crushed red pepper flakes for a gentle kick of heat. Don’t forget a generous pinch of salt and black pepper—these are crucial to elevate every ingredient.

Step 3: Combine and Cook

Give everything a good stir to ensure the chicken is well-coated in the flavorful mixture. Then cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through. The slow cooking allows the flavors to meld in beautifully and the chicken to soak up that creamy sauce.

Step 4: Finish the Sauce

When your chicken is cooked to perfection, carefully remove it from the crockpot. You can shred the meat for a rustic feel or leave the pieces whole if you prefer. Then stir fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and chopped fresh basil into the remaining sauce in the crockpot. These fresh elements brighten and finish the sauce wonderfully.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the crockpot, coating it thoroughly with the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. This final step is the secret to making every bite pop with flavor. Your Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken is now ready to be served over your choice of rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta, creating a comforting and unforgettable meal.

How to Serve Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken

Garnishes

Fresh basil is the ideal garnish to sprinkle on top—it adds a vibrant green pop and a refreshing aroma that complements the rich sauce beautifully. You could also add a little extra grated parmesan for an added salty punch or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for glossy perfection.

Side Dishes

This dish loves to be served with something that can soak up its luscious sauce. Fluffy rice makes a perfect base, mashed potatoes bring creaminess that matches the sauce’s texture, and pasta adds a fun twist with noodles twirling the sauce around every bite. A simple side of steamed or roasted vegetables also balances out the richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, try plating your Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken in individual shallow bowls with a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil and a wedge of lemon on the side. For entertaining, serve it alongside garlic bread to scoop up every last bit of sauce, or pile it onto toasted crostini as a fancy appetizer option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to deepen as it rests, making lunch or dinner later in the week just as delicious as the first day.

Freezing

If you want to keep this meal on hand even longer, it freezes wonderfully. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating so you preserve the creamy sauce texture and tender chicken.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to keep everything evenly warmed. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of coconut milk, cream, or even a little water to loosen it back up to that perfect creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are actually fantastic in this recipe because they stay juicier and more flavorful during the slow cooking process. Either works well, so go with your preference.

Is it okay to substitute the coconut milk with heavy cream or vice versa?

Yes, both coconut milk and heavy cream provide richness but slightly different flavor profiles. Coconut milk gives a subtle tropical note and keeps it dairy-free, while heavy cream offers classic creaminess. Choose based on your dietary needs or flavor preference.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe has just a gentle kick from the crushed red pepper flakes and smoked paprika. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. For more heat, increase them slightly.

Can I make this recipe without a crockpot?

You can! Simply simmer everything in a heavy-bottomed pot on the stove over low heat for about 45 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender, stirring occasionally and making sure the sauce doesn’t burn.

What are the best ways to serve leftovers?

Leftovers are wonderful in wraps, over fresh greens as a warm salad topping, or even tossed with pasta for a quick meal. It’s versatile and tastes just as amazing the next day!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about coming home to a warm crockpot meal that feels like it was made with love, and this Sun-Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken hits all the right notes. Creamy, savory, with just the perfect touch of brightness and spice—it’s a recipe you’ll want to revisit time and again. Give it a go on your next cozy dinner night and watch it quickly become a beloved favorite in your kitchen.

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