Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that practically cooks itself, then you’ve come to the right place! This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is one of those recipes I cherish because it’s so simple yet bursting with flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also great for family gatherings or when you want to impress your friends with minimal effort. Trust me, once you try it, this will become a go-to favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do its magic!
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The creamy tomato basil sauce is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep this meal earlier in the day and have dinner ready when you are.
• Rich and Satisfying: The combination of flavors creates a dish that’s comforting and filling.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up that yummy sauce.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! These are likely items you already have on hand, making this dish not only easy but also budget-friendly.

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)

For Garnishing

• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up according to your taste or what you have in your pantry.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey breast or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
• Change the herbs: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme for a unique twist.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes if you love a bit of heat in your dishes.

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 combined. This step is important because these flavors will meld together during cooking, creating a rich sauce that will infuse into the chicken.

Step 2: Whisk in the Cream

In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy whipping cream and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker with your tomato base. This will give your dish that creamy texture we all love while helping to thicken it as it cooks.

Step 3: Add the Chicken

Now it’s time for the star of our show! Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts into the slow cooker. Gently press them down so they are submerged in that luscious sauce. This ensures every bite bursts with flavor!

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 3 to 4 hours. The key here is patience! Cooking slowly allows all those wonderful flavors to develop fully while keeping the chicken tender and juicy. You’ll know it’s ready when a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reaches 165°F.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once cooked, stir in fresh basil for an extra pop of flavor. Take a moment to taste and adjust any seasonings as needed—maybe a pinch more salt or pepper? Serve hot topped with grated Parmesan cheese for an irresistible finish! Enjoy every delicious bite of your Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Cooking can be a breeze with just a few expert tips, so let’s make your Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken even more delightful!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and basil can significantly enhance the flavor of your dish. They add brightness and depth that dried herbs may lack, making every bite more aromatic and delicious.

• Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can reduce the amount of heavy whipping cream or substitute it with coconut cream. This will still provide a creamy texture while keeping it dairy-free!

• Don’t skip the resting time: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest in the slow cooker for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps lock in moisture, making for juicier and more flavorful chicken.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to customize the seasoning to your taste! Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give your dish a little kick, while smoked paprika could introduce a nice warmth.

• Double the recipe: If you’re feeding a crowd or want leftovers for meal prep, doubling this recipe is a great idea. It freezes well, so you’ll have an easy meal ready for those busy weeknights!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

This dish not only tastes amazing but also looks beautiful on any table. Here are some ideas on how to present it:

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few whole leaves placed on top of the chicken add a pop of color and freshness.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of cheese right before serving enhances flavor and adds a lovely texture contrast.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce, garlic bread adds a crunchy element that balances the creamy chicken.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli not only looks appealing but also adds nutrients and complements the flavors beautifully.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers offers a refreshing side that pairs nicely with the rich sauce.
• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf provides a neutral base that absorbs all those delicious tomato basil flavors without overpowering them.

Now that you’re armed with these tips and serving ideas, it’s time to enjoy your cozy dinner! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make this dish ahead of time and store it for later, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion the cooled chicken into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken with frozen chicken breasts?

Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts; just increase the cooking time by an hour or so, ensuring that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

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

This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a side of steamed vegetables. A fresh salad also makes a great accompaniment!

Can I substitute heavy cream in Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken?

Absolutely! You can use coconut cream or a non-dairy cream alternative for a lighter option without compromising flavor.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick after cooking?

If your sauce turns out thicker than you’d like, simply stir in a bit of chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to make this Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken as I am! It’s not only simple and quick but also packed with flavor that your family will love. Enjoy preparing this dish, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with me. Happy cooking!