Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that practically cooks itself, you’re in the right place! This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a favorite in my home because it’s so simple and bursting with flavor. Just toss a few ingredients into your slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you go about your day. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want to serve something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

The beauty of this recipe is not only its ease but also how well it pleases everyone at the table. Whether you’re feeding kids who are picky eaters or adults who appreciate a hearty meal, this dish never fails to impress. Plus, the creamy tomato sauce paired with tender chicken is simply divine!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy preparation: With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up this meal in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves the rich and creamy flavor that pairs perfectly with rice or pasta.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make it ahead of time for an effortless dinner that reheats beautifully.
• Comfort food at its best: The combination of tomatoes and basil creates a warm and inviting dish that feels like a hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Most of them are likely already in your kitchen, making this recipe even more convenient.

For the Sauce

• 1 can diced tomatoes with Italian herbs (with juice (14oz or 398ml))
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 3 cloves garlic (finely minced)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

For the Chicken

• ½ cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs)
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it according to your taste preferences. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up!

• Swap the protein: Use boneless skinless thighs if you prefer dark meat for extra juiciness.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.
• Creamy alternative: Substitute coconut cream for a dairy-free version that’s still rich and delightful.

How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by adding the diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, minced garlic, salt, Italian seasoning, dried basil, and pepper into your slow cooker. Stir everything together until well mixed. This step is crucial because these flavors will meld beautifully as they cook together, creating a mouthwatering sauce.

Step 2: Add the Cream

In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy whipping cream and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker over your sauce. This will help create that luxurious creamy texture we all love while ensuring everything thickens nicely during cooking.

Step 3: Add the Chicken

Now it’s time to add our star ingredient: chicken! Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts on top of the sauce mixture. Gently press them down so they’re nestled in nicely—this helps infuse them with all those delicious flavors while they cook.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for about 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of one chicken breast reads 165°F. Cooking low and slow allows all those flavors to develop beautifully while keeping the chicken juicy.

Step 5: Finish with Freshness

Once cooked, stir in the freshly chopped basil and taste your dish. Adjust any seasonings if needed—this is where you can make it just right for your palate! Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top for an added layer of flavor that takes this dish over the top.

With just these steps, you’ve created an incredible meal that everyone will love! Enjoy every bite of your Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Cooking in a slow cooker is all about simplicity and flavor, so here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh basil when possible. It adds a vibrant flavor that dried herbs can’t quite match, making your dish more aromatic and delicious.
• Adjust Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to taste your sauce before serving. Adding a pinch of salt or a dash of pepper can make all the difference in bringing out the flavors you love.
• Cut Chicken Evenly: If you’re using larger chicken breasts, consider cutting them into smaller pieces. This helps them cook evenly and absorb more of that luscious sauce.
• Thicken with Care: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes. This helps reduce the liquid without losing any flavor.
• Cook Low and Slow: For best results, stick to the low setting on your slow cooker. It ensures that the chicken becomes tender and infused with all those wonderful flavors over time.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

This dish is as beautiful as it is tasty! Here are some ideas on how to present it for an inviting meal that’s sure to impress.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Leaves: A few whole leaves sprinkled on top can add a pop of color and freshness.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: While optional, a sprinkle of this cheese adds richness and enhances the flavor profile beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: This classic pairing is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. Simply toast some bread slices with garlic butter until golden brown.
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans not only add color but also provide a healthy balance to your meal.
• Rice or Quinoa: A bed of fluffy rice or nutty quinoa acts as the perfect base to soak up all that delicious sauce while adding some wholesome grains.
• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken wonderfully.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this comforting meal! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a meal prep for the week ahead, Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is sure to be a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make this dish ahead of time and store it for later, making your weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to spoon some sauce over the chicken to keep it moist while stored.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool down entirely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers.
• This recipe can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• To prevent freezer burn, wrap the container tightly with plastic wrap before sealing.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat leftovers in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions. Cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Add a splash of cream or water if the sauce has thickened during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use frozen chicken in Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just remember that cooking time may increase by about an hour. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. You can also serve it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal!

How do I adjust the spice level in Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken?

You can customize the spice level by adding red pepper flakes or adjusting the amount of black pepper. Taste as you go to ensure it suits your preference!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken as delightful and easy to make as I do! It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prepping for busy weeks ahead. Enjoy creating this comforting dish, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations! Happy cooking!

---

Dinner