Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken Breasts Recipe

Slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts are the epitome of comfort food: tender, juicy chicken simmered in a rich tomato basil sauce that’s infused with garlic, Italian herbs, and just a hint of creaminess. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Effortless Cooking: A slow cooker does the hard work while you go about your day.
2. Flavorful and Healthy: Packed with protein, herbs, and fresh ingredients.
3. Versatile Pairings: Pairs well with pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted veggies.
4. Meal Prep Friendly: Tastes even better as leftovers, perfect for meal prepping.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken:
   • Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil.
   • Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika for a flavorful crust.
2. Optional Searing (Recommended):
   • Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned.
   • This step adds depth of flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Basil Sauce

1. Combine Base Ingredients:
   • In the slow cooker, add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, garlic, onion, chicken broth, dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Stir to Combine:
   • Mix the sauce well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Add the Chicken:
   • Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the slow cooker, nestling them into the sauce.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Chicken

1. Cook on Low or High:
   • Set the slow cooker to low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
   • The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
2. Stir Occasionally:
   • If possible, stir the sauce gently once or twice during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even flavor distribution.

Step 4: Finish the Sauce

1. Add Creaminess:
   • About 20 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream to add a velvety texture.
2. Fresh Basil:
   • Fold in the chopped fresh basil just before serving for a burst of herby freshness.
3. Adjust Seasoning:
   • Taste the sauce and adjust salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as needed.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate the Chicken:
   • Serve the chicken breasts over your choice of side dish, such as pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
2. Top with Sauce:
   • Generously spoon the tomato basil sauce over the chicken.
3. Garnish:
   • Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a picture-perfect presentation.

Side Dish Pairings

• Pasta: Fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne are excellent choices.
• Rice: Fluffy white rice or creamy risotto soaks up the flavorful sauce.
• Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, asparagus, or a mixed green salad add a healthy touch.
• Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette to scoop up the sauce.

Tips for Success

1. Don’t Overcook:
   • Check the chicken’s doneness at the lower end of the cooking time to avoid drying it out.
2. Searing Adds Depth:
   • While optional, searing the chicken locks in moisture and enhances the overall flavor.
3. Use Fresh Basil:
   • Fresh basil has a more vibrant flavor than dried, especially when added at the end of cooking.
4. Cream Alternatives:
   • If you prefer a lighter sauce, omit the cream or use coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

Variations

1. Add Vegetables:
   • Include spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition and texture.
2. Cheesy Finish:
   • Top the chicken with shredded mozzarella or provolone during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
3. Make It Spicy:
   • Increase the red pepper flakes for a spicy, Arrabbiata-style sauce.
4. Herb Substitutions:
   • Use thyme, rosemary, or parsley for a different herbaceous profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs are more forgiving and stay juicy even with extended cooking times.

Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Yes, simply omit the cream or use a non-dairy substitute like coconut milk.

Q: How can I thicken the sauce?
A: Let the sauce simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes, or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water.

Conclusion

Slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts are a must-try recipe for anyone who loves rich, comforting flavors without the fuss. The slow-cooked chicken becomes irresistibly tender, while the tomato basil sauce bursts with the perfect balance of tangy, savory, and creamy notes.

Yield: 4

Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken Breasts Recipe

Print

Slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts are the epitome of comfort food: tender, juicy chicken simmered in a rich tomato basil sauce that’s infused with garlic, Italian herbs, and just a hint of creaminess. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 5 hours

Total Time 5 hours 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus more for garnish)
• 1/3 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy sauce)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

2. Sear the Chicken (Optional)

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly golden. This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped if you're short on time.

3. Prepare the Slow Cooker

1. In the slow cooker, combine the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and chopped basil. Mix well.

4. Add the Chicken

1. Place the chicken breasts into the slow cooker, ensuring they’re submerged in the tomato mixture.

5. Cook

1. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

6. Optional: Add Cream

1. If you prefer a creamy sauce, stir in the heavy cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

7. Serve

1. Plate the chicken with the tomato basil sauce spooned over it.
2. Garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Freezing: This dish freezes well without the cream. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Substitutions: Substitute chicken thighs for a richer flavor.

Make it Dairy-Free: Omit the cream and Parmesan or use dairy-free alternatives.