Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe

Slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken is a dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich and flavorful tomato basil sauce. The slow cooker does all the work, infusing the chicken with the savory essence of tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil. This comforting meal is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, offering a blend of creamy textures and delightful flavors that will make it a family favorite.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and dried basil. Make sure both sides are evenly coated.
2. Sear the Chicken (Optional): For added flavor, you can sear the chicken breasts in a hot skillet with a little olive oil until they are golden brown on both sides. This step is optional but recommended for extra depth of flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker

1. Layer the Ingredients: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce over the chicken. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chicken broth.
2. Add Fresh Basil and Cream: Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil leaves over the top and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently to combine the ingredients without disturbing the chicken too much.
3. Season the Sauce: Add the sugar (if using), red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), and additional salt and pepper to taste. Stir to mix the flavors.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Chicken

1. Set the Slow Cooker: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked through when done.
2. Check the Sauce: About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, check the sauce. If it’s too thin, you can remove the lid for the last 30 minutes to allow it to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Finish the Dish

1. Add Parmesan Cheese: Once the chicken is cooked and the sauce has thickened, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. This will add a creamy texture and rich flavor to the sauce.
2. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or even a bit more basil if you prefer.

Step 5: Serve the Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

1. Prepare Your Sides: While the chicken is finishing in the slow cooker, prepare your choice of pasta, rice, or warm crusty bread to serve alongside the chicken.
2. Plate the Chicken: Serve the chicken breasts topped with the creamy tomato basil sauce. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect Pairings

• Pasta: Creamy tomato basil chicken pairs beautifully with a side of pasta like fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti. The sauce clings to the pasta, making each bite delicious.
• Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice is an excellent option to soak up the rich sauce, making a hearty meal.
• Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy tomato sauce.

Additional Toppings

• Fresh Basil: Fresh basil leaves add a burst of freshness and color to the dish.
• Extra Parmesan: A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese enhances the creaminess and richness of the sauce.

Tips for Success

Maximizing Flavor

• Sear the Chicken: If you have time, searing the chicken before slow cooking adds a delicious depth of flavor and creates a nice texture on the outside of the chicken.
• Use Fresh Basil: While dried basil can work, using fresh basil gives the sauce a vibrant and aromatic flavor that dried herbs can’t quite match.

Adjusting Consistency

• Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can either remove the slow cooker lid towards the end of the cooking time or add a slurry of cornstarch and water to the sauce.
• Creamier Sauce: For an even creamier sauce, you can stir in a bit more heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese at the end.

Conclusion

Slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become tender and infuses the sauce with rich, savory flavors. Paired with pasta, rice, or bread, this meal is sure to satisfy your cravings and become a regular in your dinner rotation.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts. They may add even more flavor and will stay tender during the slow cooking process.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in a saucepan over low heat or in the slow cooker on the warm setting.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or omit the cheese entirely.

How can I make the sauce spicier?

To add more heat to the sauce, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a chopped jalapeno to the slow cooker.

Yield: 6

Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe

Print

Slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken is a dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich and flavorful tomato basil sauce. The slow cooker does all the work, infusing the chicken with the savory essence of tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil. This comforting meal is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, offering a blend of creamy textures and delightful flavors that will make it a family favorite.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 6 hours

Total Time 6 hours 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
• Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides.
   
2. Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker:
   Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, dried basil, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
   
3. Slow Cook:
   Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
   
4. Add Cream and Cheese:
   About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. If using fresh spinach, add it now. Stir to combine, allowing the spinach to wilt and the sauce to thicken.
   
5. Serve:
   Once the sauce is creamy and the chicken is tender, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
   
6. Enjoy:
   Serve the creamy tomato basil chicken over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Notes

Chicken: For a leaner option, use chicken thighs instead of breasts, or substitute with boneless, skinless turkey breast.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes: If using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drain the excess oil before adding them to the slow cooker.

Thicker Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, you can remove the chicken and cook the sauce uncovered on high for 15-20 minutes to reduce it.

Fresh Herbs: If using fresh basil, add it at the end of cooking to maintain its bright flavor.

Make-Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Freezing: The cooked dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.