This Crockpot Chicken with Artichokes and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a perfect blend of savory, tangy, and aromatic flavors. Slow-cooked to perfection, the tender chicken absorbs the rich essence of garlic, herbs, and sun-dried tomatoes, making every bite bursting with deliciousness. The artichokes add a subtle, earthy note that complements the juicy chicken, while a sprinkle of Parmesan brings everything together beautifully. This dish is ideal for those who love effortless cooking with incredible results. Simply toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let the flavors develop throughout the day. Whether served with pasta, rice, or crusty bread, this comforting meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. It’s a wholesome, satisfying dish that’s bound to become a family favorite!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Directions:
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add the artichoke hearts and sun-dried tomatoes on top of the chicken.
- In a bowl, mix the chicken broth, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Pour over the chicken.
- Drizzle olive oil over the ingredients.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Before serving, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
- Serve warm with rice, pasta, or crusty bread.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 hours | Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction: Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a flavorful, easy-to-make chicken dish that delivers both comfort and nutrition, this Crockpot Chicken with Artichokes and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is an excellent choice. It’s the perfect recipe for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the ingredients to meld together into a rich, aromatic dish that’s sure to impress your family and guests. This dish takes inspiration from Mediterranean cuisine, known for its use of fresh, wholesome ingredients that promote heart health and longevity. The combination of tender chicken, briny artichokes, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant herbs creates a dish that’s not only delicious but also nutritious.
The History Behind the Ingredients
This dish highlights some of the most iconic ingredients in Mediterranean and Italian cooking:
- Chicken: A staple protein that is lean, versatile, and a great source of essential nutrients like B vitamins and amino acids.
- Artichokes: A nutrient-dense vegetable that has been enjoyed since ancient times, particularly in Italian, Greek, and French cuisine. They’re packed with fiber, antioxidants, and can aid digestion.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These little bursts of flavor have been used in Italian and Mediterranean recipes for centuries. They add natural sweetness, depth, and a concentrated tomato essence to any dish.
- Garlic and Herbs: Common in Mediterranean cooking, garlic and dried herbs like oregano and basil bring a warm, earthy aroma and robust taste to this dish.
Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, making this slow-cooked chicken recipe stand out from others.
Health Benefits of This Dish
Not only is this slow cooker chicken delicious, but it’s also incredibly healthy and well-balanced. Here’s why this dish is a great addition to your diet:
- Rich in Protein: Chicken provides high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall energy levels.
- Heart-Healthy Ingredients: Artichokes are packed with fiber and antioxidants that help lower cholesterol levels and support heart health.
- Gut-Friendly: Garlic and artichokes promote good digestion and contain prebiotics that support gut health.
- Low in Calories Yet Satisfying: Despite being full of flavor, this dish is relatively low in calories while keeping you full and energized.
- Good for Weight Management: High-protein meals like this one help control appetite and cravings, making it ideal for those following a balanced diet.
If you’re following a low-carb, keto, or Mediterranean diet, this dish can be easily adapted to fit your nutritional needs.
Why This Recipe Is the Best
There are countless slow cooker chicken recipes out there, but this one stands out for several reasons:
- Minimal Prep Time – Just 10 minutes of prep before letting the slow cooker do all the work!
- Rich Mediterranean Flavors – The blend of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs creates an irresistible taste.
- One-Pot Convenience – Less mess and fewer dishes to clean up.
- Versatile Serving Options – Serve over rice, pasta, quinoa, or enjoy with crusty bread.
- Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Friendly – Leftovers taste even better the next day!
If you’re looking for the ultimate easy slow cooker meal, this recipe is a must-try.
Serving Suggestions: How to Enjoy This Dish
This Crockpot Chicken with Artichokes and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is incredibly versatile and pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some delicious serving ideas:
- Over Pasta: The flavorful sauce pairs perfectly with al dente spaghetti or penne.
- With Rice or Quinoa: A great way to soak up all the delicious juices.
- With Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, rustic bread for a hearty meal.
- As a Low-Carb Option: Enjoy with steamed vegetables, cauliflower rice, or a fresh green salad.
For added richness, drizzle with extra Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
Tips for the Best Results
To ensure your slow cooker chicken comes out perfectly every time, follow these pro tips:
- Use Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs – Both work well, but thighs tend to be juicier.
- Don’t Skip the Herbs and Spices – They enhance the flavor and add depth to the dish.
- For a Creamier Sauce – Stir in a splash of heavy cream or Greek yogurt at the end.
- Use High-Quality Sun-Dried Tomatoes – If they are packed in oil, drain before adding.
- Adjust Cooking Time – If your chicken breasts are small, check for doneness around 4 hours on LOW.
This dish also makes for great leftovers and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for later use.
FAQs: Common Questions About This Recipe
- Can I use frozen chicken in the slow cooker?
Yes, but it’s recommended to thaw it first for even cooking and better flavor absorption.
- Can I make this dish in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes, then do a quick release.
- What can I substitute for artichokes?
If you don’t have artichokes, try mushrooms, zucchini, or olives for a similar Mediterranean touch.
- Is this dish spicy?
Not really, but you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Conclusion
If you’re in need of a simple, flavorful, and healthy slow cooker meal, this Crockpot Chicken with Artichokes and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is the perfect choice. It combines tender, juicy chicken with bold Mediterranean flavors, all cooked effortlessly in the crockpot. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish is bound to become a favorite. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out!