This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a warm hug in a bowl! Tender chicken is mixed with a rich tomato sauce and fresh basil, making it super tasty and easy to prepare.
I love how I can just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do its magic! Perfect for busy days when I want dinner ready and waiting, plus it’s a great way to impress guests!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a richer flavor. They stay moist and tender through slow cooking.
Canned Diced Tomatoes: These provide a substantial base. If you’re out of canned tomatoes, fresh tomatoes or crushed tomatoes can work, just adjust the liquid since fresh may have less juice.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or coconut cream. Keep in mind, it will change the flavor and texture slightly, so choose according to your taste!
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is the star ingredient here! If unavailable, dried basil can be used, but you’d only need about a third of the amount, as dried herbs are stronger.
Parmesan Cheese: If you don’t have Parmesan, you can swap it for Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option that still adds a cheesy flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Sear Chicken for Extra Flavor?
Searing the chicken is optional, but it adds a lovely depth of flavor to the dish. To sear properly, follow these steps:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
- When the oil is hot, add the chicken and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Don’t rush this step!
- Transfer the seared chicken to the slow cooker to keep its juices during cooking.
Taking the time to sear really enhances the overall taste, even if it seems like an extra step.
How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breasts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups canned diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for searing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total cooking time is about 6 to 7 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high. If you choose to sear the chicken, add about 10 minutes of prep time. Get ready for a mouthwatering dish that practically cooks itself while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
If you’d like to add extra flavor, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them in the hot skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they get a lovely golden-brown color. This step is optional but definitely tasty!
2. Transferring to the Slow Cooker:
Carefully place the seared chicken breasts in the slow cooker. It’s the perfect home for your chicken to soak in all the delicious flavors.
3. Adding Tomatoes and Seasonings:
Open your cans of diced tomatoes and pour them (juice and all) over the chicken. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and more salt and pepper to your liking. Stir it all gently to spread the flavors around.
4. Pouring the Cream and Broth:
In a separate bowl, mix together the heavy cream and chicken broth until it’s smooth. Then, pour this creamy mixture over the chicken and tomatoes in your slow cooker.
5. Cooking:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is fully cooked and tender enough to shred with a fork!
6. Adding Basil and Cheese:
When the chicken is ready, lift the lid and sprinkle in the chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Give it a good stir to combine all those yummy ingredients into a rich, creamy sauce.
7. Serving:
Serve your creamy tomato basil chicken over pasta, rice, or with some crusty bread—whatever you prefer! For an extra touch, garnish with some fresh basil and more Parmesan cheese. Enjoy every delightful bite!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but note that you should cook the dish on high for about 5-6 hours instead of low. The key is ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. No need to thaw the chicken beforehand, just make sure to set your slow cooker timer accordingly!
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you want a lighter option or are dairy-free, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream substitute. Just keep in mind that using coconut milk will add a slight coconut flavor to the dish. If you’re using low-fat milk, you may want to thicken the sauce with a bit of cornstarch or flour mixed in water to maintain creaminess.
How to Store Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool the chicken completely before sealing it. To reheat, warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. If the sauce thickens while stored, simply stir in a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore its consistency.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! You can add vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the slow cooker for added nutrition. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them in along with the tomatoes. Keep in mind that some vegetables might cook faster, so it’s best to add heartier ones like carrots or zucchini at the start of the cooking time and more delicate ones like spinach towards the end.
