If you’re searching for a rich, creamy, and utterly comforting dinner that basically cooks itself, allow me to introduce you to your new weeknight hero: the Sumptuous Crockpot Poultry Extravaganza. Imagine juicy chicken simmering all day in a dreamy blend of cream, herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan—the kind of meal that rewards you with mouthwatering aromas just as you walk in the door. This dish is designed to impress both your taste buds and your guests, while being as simple as tossing everything into a slow cooker. Whether you’re a busy parent, feeding a crowd, or simply treating yourself, the Sumptuous Crockpot Poultry Extravaganza checks every box.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity: each ingredient brings a unique flair, whether it’s color, texture, or a hit of savory flavor. Gather these essentials for a Sumptuous Crockpot Poultry Extravaganza that tastes every bit as spectacular as it sounds!
- Chicken thighs or breasts (2 pounds): Choose boneless, skinless for melt-in-your-mouth results and ultra-simple prep.
- Low-sodium chicken broth (1 cup): Infuses the chicken with savory depth while keeping things light.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Adds irresistible richness and a silky texture to the sauce.
- Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (1/3 cup): Bursts of tangy-sweet flavor and beautiful color in every bite.
- Sliced mushrooms (1/2 cup): Provide umami depth and a lovely, earthy balance.
- Chopped onions (1/2 cup): Foundation of flavor—once slow-cooked, they practically melt into the sauce.
- Minced garlic (3 cloves): Because every great dinner deserves robust garlicky notes!
- Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): An earthy, fragrant herbal lift.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): For gentle warmth and gorgeous color.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Just enough to coax out the best from every ingredient.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A subtle kick to balance out the creaminess.
- Cornstarch mixed with cold water (1 tablespoon each): Optional, for those who adore an ultra-luxurious, thickened sauce.
- Shredded Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Melts right in for a nutty, salty finish.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): A pop of color and freshness at the very end.
How to Make Sumptuous Crockpot Poultry Extravaganza
Step 1: Layer in the Chicken
Begin your Sumptuous Crockpot Poultry Extravaganza by arranging your boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts evenly at the bottom of your slow cooker. This ensures each piece cooks beautifully and soaks up all the rich sauce flavors as the dish simmers throughout the day.
Step 2: Add Broth, Cream, and Veggies
Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and heavy cream, creating a decadent base for your dish. Sprinkle the sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, chopped onions, and minced garlic over the chicken. These veggies will soften up and infuse your sauce with bursts of flavor and satisfying texture.
Step 3: Season Generously
It’s time to make things exciting! Sprinkle in the dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a gentle stir so the aromatics and seasonings start to mingle and wrap themselves lovingly around the chicken.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection
Pop the lid on your crockpot and set it to low for 6 to 7 hours, or high for 3 to 4 hours. The magic here is in the wait—the longer, slower cook makes every bite of chicken downright fork-tender and lets those flavors meld into something fabulous. Your entire kitchen will smell like pure comfort!
Step 5: Finish with Parmesan & Thicken Sauce (Optional)
About 30 minutes before dinnertime, sprinkle in the shredded Parmesan cheese. If you love a thicker, extra-creamy sauce, stir in your cornstarch slurry. Remove the crockpot lid and let everything simmer on high as the sauce thickens to your ideal consistency.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Before serving, shower your Sumptuous Crockpot Poultry Extravaganza with chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant and fresh finishing touch. This dish truly shines when spooned over fluffy rice, buttery pasta, or pillowy mashed potatoes—every bite is like a warm hug!
How to Serve Sumptuous Crockpot Poultry Extravaganza
Garnishes
A generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is classic, but don’t stop there if you’re feeling fancy. Thinly sliced green onions or a dusting of even more Parmesan never hurts. For a true restaurant flair, add a few extra sun-dried tomato slivers right on top of each plate.
Side Dishes
This Sumptuous Crockpot Poultry Extravaganza is perfect served over warm rice, buttered noodles, or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all that gorgeous sauce. For veggies, think simply steamed green beans, blanched asparagus, or a crisp green salad—these will balance the rich flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties, try dishing the extravaganza into individual ramekins for personal pot pies—just add a round of puff pastry and bake until golden. Or, transform leftovers into decadent sandwiches on toasted ciabatta rolls. A festive family-style serving platter, overflowing with chicken and sauce, is always a showstopper as well.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Sumptuous Crockpot Poultry Extravaganza stays delicious for days. Cool any leftovers quickly, transfer to airtight containers, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors seem to deepen overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch even better!
Freezing
This dish is a meal-prepper’s dream. Let the chicken and sauce cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw safely in the fridge overnight before reheating for a no-fuss dinner down the road.
Reheating
When ready to revisit your Sumptuous Crockpot Poultry Extravaganza, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or zap individual portions in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or cream to return the sauce to its original luscious consistency, stirring occasionally for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Both cuts work well. Chicken breasts are leaner and have a lighter texture, while thighs tend to be a bit more juicy and flavorful. Use whichever you prefer or have on hand—the Sumptuous Crockpot Poultry Extravaganza is wonderfully flexible!
Is there a way to lighten up this recipe?
Yes, you can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk for a different twist. Reducing the amount of cheese slightly or using a lighter Parmesan also works while still keeping things creamy and dreamy.
What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
If you’re not a fan or don’t have any, feel free to substitute roasted red peppers or a handful of cherry tomatoes. You’ll still get a lovely touch of acidity and color in your Sumptuous Crockpot Poultry Extravaganza.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Baby spinach stirred in during the last 15 minutes is delicious and adds gorgeous color. Zucchini or bell peppers make great additions, too—add them halfway through cooking so they don’t turn mushy.
What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?
The easy cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and cold water) is your friend here. Stir it in near the end of cooking, then let the sauce bubble on high, uncovered, until it reaches your perfect thickness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a fuss-free meal that packs maximum flavor and comfort, the Sumptuous Crockpot Poultry Extravaganza truly delivers. Every creamy, savory, herby bite is a celebration of how easy slow cooker dinners can be. Try it just once and you’ll find yourself coming back again and again—your future self (and your hungry family or friends) will thank you!
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Sumptuous Crockpot Poultry Extravaganza Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of this sumptuous crockpot poultry extravaganza. Tender chicken cooked in a creamy, flavorful sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and mushrooms, this dish is a comfort food delight.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
Sauce:
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Thickening Agent (optional):
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water
Garnish:
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Place the chicken in the crockpot and add chicken broth, heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, onions, garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir gently.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours until chicken is tender.
- Thicken (optional): Thirty minutes before serving, stir in Parmesan cheese. For a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch slurry and simmer uncovered until thickened.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Add baby spinach in the last 15 minutes for extra greens.
- This dish freezes well and makes excellent leftovers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (low)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
