This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breasts dish is packed with flavor! Juicy chicken cooks in a lovely creamy sauce made from tomatoes and fresh basil. Yum!
One of my favorite parts is that it practically cooks itself! I just pop everything in the slow cooker and relax while it fills the house with amazing smells. What a win! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect because they stay tender in the slow cooker. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey breasts work well too.
Crushed Tomatoes: This ingredient adds a rich flavor base. If you can’t find crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes or even tomato puree can be good alternatives. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you use the puree.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you’re watching your calories, consider using half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative. Coconut milk also gives great creaminess with a slight twist.
Onion and Garlic: They give great flavor. If you’re short on time, onion powder and garlic powder will do the trick, but fresh is always better for depth of flavor!
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice salty flavor. Grated pecorino or nutritional yeast for a vegan option can be great substitutes.
How Do You Achieve the Best Flavor in a Slow Cooker?
Layering flavors is key for a slow cooker dish. Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom, as they take longer to cook and will soak up the flavors as they simmer. Mix your sauce ingredients well in a bowl before pouring over the chicken. This ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
- Ensure to finely chop the onion and garlic for better distribution of flavor.
- Mix the ingredients until combined. This prevents clumping when poured on the chicken.
- Cooking on low for 6-8 hours allows for tender chicken and a well-developed sauce.
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:
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Optional: Cooked pasta or rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This slow cooker meal takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then cooks for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. You can set it and forget it while it simmers to perfection, making it a great choice for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure they are laid flat so they cook evenly.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix together the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything until it’s well blended and looks smooth.
3. Combine in the Slow Cooker:
Pour the creamy tomato mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Make sure the chicken is completely covered by the sauce for the best flavor!
4. Cook Your Chicken:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and tender when it’s done—perfect for shredding or slicing!
5. Finish the Sauce:
Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix it well until fully incorporated, and let it simmer with the lid on for another 5-10 minutes to thicken the sauce just a bit.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When it’s time to eat, carefully remove the chicken breasts and slice them if you’d like. Ladle the creamy tomato basil sauce generously over the chicken. Add a garnish of fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Serve over cooked pasta or rice if you prefer. Dig in and enjoy your delicious slow cooker meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure to cook them for a bit longer—about 8-10 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high—until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). No need to thaw them beforehand, but ensure they are properly cooked before serving.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream with a Lighter Option?
Absolutely! You can use half-and-half or whole milk in place of heavy cream, but keep in mind that the sauce will be less creamy. If you prefer a non-dairy alternative, try coconut milk for a flavorful twist. Just check the consistency and add more if needed as these options can vary.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover creamy tomato basil chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also add a splash of chicken broth or cream to smooth it out if it gets too thick.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta or rice because they soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, serve it with steamed vegetables or a side salad to balance the richness of the dish. Enjoy experimenting with sides!
