Name: Slow Cooker Amnian Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 180 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless (skinless chicken thighs); 2 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped); 1 tbsp oil from the sun-dried tomatoes; 1 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1/2 cup chicken stock; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese (grated); 3 oz fresh baby spinach

The Burly Earl had always been a place of hearty meals and warm company, but Asmund, the tavern’s owner, had a new goal in mind. After the tavern’s grand reopening, he set out to create dishes that could bring the comfort of home to travelers and adventurers. One of his achievements was a dish inspired by the vibrant flavors of faraway lands: Slow Cooker Amnian Chicken.

A Taste of Adventure

The inspiration for this dish came to Asmund during one of his many conversations with merchants and travelers who frequented the tavern. One tale in particular, shared by a spice trader, spoke of Amn’s lush hills and bountiful fields, a land renowned for its fine foods and flourishing trade. Its markets brimmed with fresh herbs, ripe fruits, and creamy cheeses, embodying the wealth and indulgence of the region. Asmund was captivated by the story, and it sparked an idea—a dish that could bring the essence of Amn to his own hearth.

He set to work using the simple yet bold ingredients he had on hand. Boneless chicken thighs, seasoned generously with Amnian herbs, would form the foundation. Sun-dried tomatoes, their sweetness concentrated by the sun, would lend a burst of flavor. Fresh spinach, tender and vibrant, would round out the dish.

Cooking with Heart

The magic happened in the slow cooker. Asmund believed in the importance of time—allowing the flavors to meld and transform into something greater than the sum of their parts. He began by creating a sauce rich with butter, garlic, and cream, slowly simmered until it thickened to perfection. Pecorino Romano cheese, sharp and salty, melted into the mixture, making the sauce irresistibly smooth and savory.

This golden elixir was poured over the seasoned chicken, and as it cooked low and slow, the kitchen filled with a warm, tantalizing aroma that drew smiles from everyone who passed by.

When the dish was ready, Asmund added fresh spinach to the sauce, watching it wilt gently and bringing a burst of color to the creamy base. The final touch was serving the chicken with a generous ladle of sauce, garnished with fresh parsley or basil and paired with crusty bread to sop up every last drop.

A Meal for Every Occasion

Slow Cooker Amnian Chicken quickly became a favorite at The Burly Earl, served to guests seeking comfort after a long journey or adventurers sharing stories of their exploits. Its creamy, savory richness and tender, melt-in-your-mouth chicken made it a meal to savor, while the simplicity of its preparation meant it could easily be recreated at home.

For Asmund, it was more than just a dish—it was a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, whether they were old friends or strangers passing through. A single bite of the Amnian Chicken spoke of warmth, hospitality, and the joy of sharing something truly delicious.

And so, the dish became a staple of The Burly Earl’s menu, a testament to Asmund’s belief that even the simplest ingredients, when cooked with care, could create a feast fit for any table.