If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe transforms simple chicken breasts into a luscious, flavorful meal where creamy richness meets bright tomatoes and fragrant basil, all effortlessly cooked to tender perfection in your slow cooker. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress without stressing, and it fills your home with the most inviting aromas from the very first moment.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create a harmonious balance of flavors, textures, and vibrant color. Each component plays a vital role, from the tangy tomatoes to the creamy Parmesan, making this dish as comforting as it is visually appealing.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that becomes tender and juicy after slow cooking.
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes: Adds freshness and a slight sweetness with little tomato chunks for texture.
- 1 (14 oz) can tomato sauce: Creates a silky, rich base for the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Brings in that creamy indulgence that smooths out the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Enhances the savory depth without overpowering the flavors.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty layer that thickens the sauce beautifully.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Builds a subtle sweetness and aromatic foundation.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with its unmistakable pungency that elevates every bite.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Reinforces the herbal notes alongside the fresh garnish.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Lends an earthy complexity to deepen the tomato flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and brightens the overall dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides just the right amount of spice.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle kick if you love a little heat.
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish): The fresh herb that not only looks gorgeous but gives a final burst of aroma and flavor.
How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and absorbs the delicious sauce that will be poured over it.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir everything together until well combined—this marinade-like concoction is where your dish really begins to shine.
Step 3: Pour the Sauce Over Chicken
Pour the creamy tomato basil mixture directly over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Make sure the chicken is well covered as this will help it cook evenly while infusing all those wonderful flavors into the meat.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. The slow cooking process is the secret behind that tender, juicy chicken and the sauce that turns beautifully thick and creamy as it mingles with the herbs and cheese.
Step 5: Blend the Sauce (Optional)
Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it and set aside. If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender directly in the slow cooker to blend the sauce until silky smooth. This step totally transforms the dish for that velvety mouthfeel.
Step 6: Combine and Coat
Return the chicken breasts to the slow cooker and gently stir so each piece is luxuriously coated with the creamy tomato basil sauce. This ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped basil leaves over the dish. This not only adds a pop of color but a refreshing herbal aroma that perfectly complements the richness of the sauce.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are a must—they add vibrant green color and a fragrant finish that brightens the creamy sauce. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese at the table can enhance the nutty depth already present in the dish.
Side Dishes
This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with fluffy mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or cooked pasta to soak up every bit of the luscious sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans add freshness and a satisfying crunch contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more rustic vibe, serve the chicken over a warm bed of garlic-infused quinoa or couscous for an elegant twist. You can also spoon the saucy chicken into toasted ciabatta bread bowls for a fun, interactive meal that’s sure to impress friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe keeps well refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen over time, making leftovers a delicious next-day treat.
Freezing
Freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Freezing preserves the creamy texture and lets you enjoy this delightful meal anytime with minimal effort.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Stir occasionally to maintain the sauce’s creamy consistency, and add a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to loosen it up.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe since they stay moist and absorb the sauce beautifully. Adjust the cooking time slightly if needed, as thighs sometimes take a bit longer to become tender.
Is this recipe spicy?
The base recipe has a gentle warmth from black pepper and optional crushed red pepper flakes, but you can easily adjust the heat level to your preference by adding more or skipping the red pepper flakes entirely.
Do I have to blend the sauce?
No, blending the sauce is optional. Some people love the texture of diced tomatoes and onions for a rustic feel, while others prefer a smooth, velvety sauce. It’s up to your personal taste.
Can I prepare this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Use the sauté function for the onion and garlic before adding the other ingredients, then cook on the slow cooker or pressure cooker setting as directed. Cooking times will vary, so keep an eye on the chicken’s tenderness.
What can I serve with this dish for a low-carb option?
Try serving the chicken with cauliflower rice or sautéed zucchini noodles to keep the meal light while still enjoying all the creamy tomato basil goodness.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely believe the Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that brings comfort and joy every time you make it. It’s perfect whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself, and the ease of the slow cooker means less time in the kitchen and more time savoring the delicious results. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite dinner go-to!
Print
Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken features tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich and creamy tomato basil sauce. Perfect for an easy and comforting meal, this recipe combines canned tomatoes, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese with aromatic herbs to create a flavorful dish that cooks low and slow for juicy, melt-in-your-mouth chicken.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Tomato Basil Sauce
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (14 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Place Chicken in Slow Cooker: Arrange the boneless, skinless chicken breasts evenly in the bottom of your slow cooker to create the base for the sauce.
- Mix Tomato Basil Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, heavy cream, chicken broth, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Pour Sauce Over Chicken: Pour the prepared tomato sauce mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring each piece is covered.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Blend Sauce (Optional): Carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and set aside. Using an immersion blender, puree the sauce directly in the slow cooker until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. This step is optional but recommended for a silky texture.
- Combine Chicken with Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the slow cooker and stir gently to coat them evenly with the creamy tomato basil sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil leaves over the chicken for a bright, fresh finish before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but it may be less rich.
- Serve this dish over cooked pasta, rice, or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- For an even creamier texture, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese into the sauce before blending.
