If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve got to try this Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of tender chicken bathed in a luscious, creamy tomato sauce infused with fresh basil and savory Parmesan. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you get on with your day. Whether you’re after a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive yet effortless meal for guests, this recipe checks all the boxes and never fails to delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe comes from a handful of simple ingredients that work in harmony to create layers of flavor, richness, and comfort. Each component brings something special to the dish—whether it’s the savory depth of garlic, the sweetness of tomatoes, or the creamy finish from Parmesan and heavy cream.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that soaks up all the delicious sauce while staying juicy and tender.
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes: Adds fresh tomato chunks and a vibrant texture to the sauce.
- 1 (14 oz) can tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, rich tomato base that’s full of flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Brings the luxurious creaminess that makes the sauce irresistibly silky.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds a subtle depth and helps balance flavors while keeping the sauce saucy.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Introduces a nutty, salty richness that elevates the overall taste.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Gives a natural sweetness and savory undertone when cooked slowly.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Imparts a bold, aromatic flavor essential to tomato-based dishes.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: The herbaceous note that defines the character of this recipe.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Enhances the Mediterranean essence and pairs perfectly with basil.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and brightens all the other flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat without overpowering the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a gentle kick and a bit of warmth.
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish): A fresh, fragrant finish that makes the dish pop on the plate.
How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts directly into the slow cooker. This simple protein base will become tender and juicy as it absorbs all the amazing flavors from the sauce.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Mix everything until thoroughly combined—all these ingredients come together to create a rich, fragrant sauce that’s both creamy and tangy.
Step 3: Pour Over Chicken
Pour the luscious tomato mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, making sure each piece is well covered. This step ensures every bite is drenched in that delicious sauce we love.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. Patience here is key—it allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and the flavors to develop fully, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Step 5: Blend the Sauce (Optional)
Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and set aside. If you prefer a smooth sauce, use an immersion blender right in the pot to blend the tomato mixture until silky. This is an optional step, but it adds a lovely creamy texture to the dish.
Step 6: Return Chicken and Coat
Put the chicken back into the slow cooker and stir gently to coat it in the now luscious, blended sauce. This final step melds everything together, preparing it beautifully for serving.
Step 7: Garnish Before Serving
Finish off by sprinkling chopped fresh basil leaves over the top. The bright green basil not only looks beautiful but adds a burst of freshness that perfectly complements the richness of the sauce.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are a classic garnish here, but you can also add a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan or even a drizzle of good olive oil for a bit of richness and shine. These simple touches make the dish even more inviting at the table.
Side Dishes
Serve this creamy chicken over a bed of fluffy rice, tender pasta, or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up every bit of that sauce. Roasted or steamed veggies like asparagus, green beans, or a crisp salad also pair beautifully, balancing out the creamy richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the chicken on toasted garlic bread or alongside polenta for a comforting, rustic vibe. You could also slice the chicken and layer it in a warm pita or tortilla wrap topped with fresh greens for a hearty, flavorful lunch option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for an easy next-day dinner or lunch.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion the chicken and sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep that creamy sauce intact.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken and sauce gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream can help revive the sauce’s creamy texture if it has thickened in the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully and stay extra juicy during slow cooking. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed, though 4-6 hours on low should still be perfect.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply swap the heavy cream for a coconut cream or cashew cream alternative and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute, or omit it entirely. The sauce will still be deliciously creamy and full of flavor.
Can I add fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Fresh tomatoes can be used, but keep in mind they might make the sauce a bit more watery, so consider reducing the amount of chicken broth or simmering the sauce a bit longer if cooking on the stove.
Do I need to brown the chicken first?
There’s no need to brown the chicken beforehand with this slow cooker recipe. The slow cooking process gently cooks the chicken to tender perfection while infusing it with the rich flavors of the sauce.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can adapt it for an Instant Pot by using the sauté function to quickly cook the onion and garlic, then adding all ingredients and cooking under pressure for about 15 minutes. Follow with a quick natural release and thicken the sauce if needed.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dish that feels both indulgent and effortless, this Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe is destined to become a go-to in your kitchen. It’s packed with comforting flavors, easy to prep, and full of that homemade warmth we all crave. Give it a try and watch how it becomes a beloved favorite at your table.
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Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken features tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich, flavorful tomato and basil cream sauce. Perfect for a comforting and easy meal, this recipe combines canned tomatoes, cream, Parmesan cheese, and aromatic herbs, all slow-cooked to meld the flavors beautifully with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Tomato Cream 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
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts evenly at the bottom of the slow cooker to create the base of your dish.
- Mix the Sauce Ingredients: In a medium bowl, thoroughly combine diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, heavy cream, chicken broth, grated Parmesan cheese, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well to ensure the flavors meld.
- Add Sauce to Slow Cooker: Pour the prepared tomato cream mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, covering them completely.
- Slow Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on the low setting for 4 to 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender, fully cooked, and infused with the sauce flavors.
- Blend the Sauce (Optional): Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and set aside. Using an immersion blender, blend the cooking sauce until smooth and creamy, if desired.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the slow cooker and stir gently to coat them evenly with the blended creamy tomato basil sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil leaves over the chicken for a burst of fresh flavor and an appealing presentation before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the crushed red pepper flakes according to your taste.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it will be less rich.
- Serve this creamy tomato basil chicken over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- The sauce can be blended for a smooth texture or left chunky based on your preference.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
