This Easy Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a dream come true! With tender chicken swimming in a rich, creamy sauce made of tomatoes and fresh basil, it’s hard not to love.
The best part? You just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. I like serving it over rice or pasta for a cozy meal. Simple and oh-so-yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe because they cook up tender. If you prefer, you can substitute thighs for a richer flavor or even use a rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
Diced Tomatoes: Use canned diced tomatoes for convenience, but fresh tomatoes can work too. Just chop them up and add a bit of water if needed. Fire-roasted tomatoes will add a smoky twist!
Heavy Cream: This makes the dish creamy and rich. If you’re looking for lighter options, you can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Keep in mind that coconut milk will change the flavor a bit.
Basil: Fresh basil is the star here! If you can’t find fresh, dried basil will do, but use only about a tablespoon since it’s more concentrated. You could also try other herbs like oregano or thyme for a different taste.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Moist and Tender?
Keeping chicken tender in the slow cooker is all about the cooking time and the liquid. First, don’t skip the browning step; it enhances flavor. Then, be sure to cover the slow cooker for even cooking. Add enough liquid to keep the chicken from drying out.
- Season your chicken and sear it briefly for extra flavor.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, checking occasionally to prevent overcooking.
- About half an hour before serving, stir in creamy ingredients for that dreamy texture but let the lid off so it can thicken.
Easy Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried basil)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and requires either 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. So sit back and let your slow cooker do all the hard work while you relax!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by lightly seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This will boost the flavor right from the start!
2. Sear the Chicken (Optional):
If you want to add extra flavor, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This step is optional but really enhances the taste.
3. Add to Slow Cooker:
Place the seared chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Don’t worry if you skip searing; the chicken will still turn out delicious!
4. Add Ingredients:
Next, pour the diced tomatoes (along with their juice), chicken broth, chopped onion, and minced garlic over the chicken. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
5. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and let it work its magic. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
6. Stir in Cream and Cheese:
About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped basil. Mix it well, and let it cook uncovered for the remaining time to let the sauce thicken slightly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is ready, serve this creamy tomato basil chicken over cooked pasta, rice, or with a piece of crusty bread. Don’t forget to garnish with extra fresh basil if you like!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw the chicken before cooking to ensure even cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. If using frozen chicken, increase your cooking time by about an hour.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
To lighten up the dish, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use light cream. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use a lower-fat cheese. Additionally, serving it with a side of steamed vegetables instead of pasta can help reduce calories.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to maintain the creamy consistency.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add in chopped bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. Just toss them in with the other ingredients in the slow cooker. If using quicker-cooking vegetables like spinach, add them in the last 30 minutes to prevent overcooking.
