Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day!
- Effortless Cooking: Set it and forget it—your slow cooker does all the work.
- Rich and Comforting: A velvety tomato cream sauce infused with fresh basil.
- Versatile: Serve it over your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Tools You’ll Need
- Tongs
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
- Total Time: 0 hours
Description
There’s something magical about a meal that comes together effortlessly in a slow cooker. This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a rich, flavorful dish that’s as comforting as it is easy to make. Tender chicken is simmered in a creamy tomato basil sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish is a weeknight hero!
Subscribe to our newsletter for more slow cooker recipes that will simplify your life without compromising on taste.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup tomato sauce (or marinara sauce)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden (optional but adds flavor).
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
- Place the chicken in the slow cooker.
- In a mixing bowl, combine diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
Step 3: Cook
- Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
Step 4: Make It Creamy
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
- Add the chopped basil and stir gently to combine.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the chicken with the creamy tomato basil sauce over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with extra fresh basil and Parmesan, if desired.
Notes
- Sear for Flavor: Browning the chicken before slow cooking enhances the flavor, but you can skip this step if you’re short on time.
- Fresh Basil: Fresh basil makes all the difference in the sauce—don’t skip it!
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. If too thin, stir in a bit more Parmesan or let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-6 hours (slow cooker)
- Cuisine: American
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use canned coconut milk instead of cream?
A: Yes! Coconut milk works as a dairy-free alternative, though it will add a subtle coconut flavor.
Q2: Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
A: Definitely! Add diced zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach in the last hour of cooking for extra nutrition.
Q3: Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
A: Yes! Cook the chicken and tomato mixture on high pressure for 10 minutes, then release pressure, stir in cream, and simmer until the sauce thickens.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Comfort Dish!
This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a dreamy, satisfying dinner that’s easy enough for weeknights but elegant enough for entertaining. The creamy tomato basil sauce is a true standout, and it pairs perfectly with so many sides.
Did you make this recipe? Let us know how it turned out in the comments, and don’t forget to share your photos on social media. We’d love to see your creations!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 420
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fat: 26g
Fiber: 2g
Enjoy this slow-cooked comfort dish and treat your taste buds to something truly special!
