This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a comforting dish that’s easy to make. Just toss chicken breasts with creamy tomato sauce and fresh basil, and let the slow cooker do its magic!
Who doesn’t love a meal that practically cooks itself? I like to serve this with pasta or rice to soak up the tasty sauce. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish because they stay moist in cooking. If you prefer dark meat, boneless thighs can be used instead for richer flavor.
Canned Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes add texture. If fresh tomatoes are available, you can chop about 4 medium ones instead. Fire-roasted tomatoes can also give a nice smoky flavor.
Cream: While heavy cream provides a rich base, you can substitute coconut cream for a dairy-free option. I find coconut cream adds a lovely hint of sweetness.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is perfect for adding depth. If you’re looking for a lower sodium option, nutritional yeast is an excellent substitute for a cheesy flavor.
Fresh Basil: Basil adds freshness and aroma. If you don’t have fresh, use 1 teaspoon of dried basil, but fresh truly shines in this recipe.
What’s the Best Way to Sear Chicken for Extra Flavor?
Searing chicken breasts is all about adding flavor through browning. This step can elevate the taste of your dish significantly. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a preheated skillet on medium heat. Add olive oil if you’re using it.
- Season the chicken nicely with salt and pepper before placing it in the pan.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown, but don’t worry about cooking it through, as it will finish cooking in the slow cooker.
Tip: Ensure the chicken isn’t crowded in the pan; this helps with even browning.
How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breasts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for browning)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus more for garnish)
For Serving:
- Cooked pasta or rice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for preparation time and takes 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. After cooking, you’ll need a few minutes to shred the chicken. Total hands-on time is quick, but the slow cooker makes it deliciously easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Chicken (Optional):
If you’d like a bit of extra flavor, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them in the skillet for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. If you’re short on time or prefer not to brown the chicken, you can skip this step!
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In the bottom of your slow cooker, mix together the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well blended.
3. Add the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts into the slow cooker, making sure they are nicely submerged in the sauce mixture to soak up all that flavor.
4. Cook It Up:
Cover your slow cooker 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 cooked through and easily shreds apart with a fork.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back to the sauce and stir in the chopped fresh basil for that fresh flavor!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy tomato basil chicken warm over cooked pasta or rice. Feel free to garnish with extra basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Bone-in chicken thighs or legs would work beautifully for this recipe as they tend to remain tender and juicy during the cooking process. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they reach the appropriate internal temperature, which is 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter or dairy-free option, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream, which works well in this recipe. Additionally, half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but the sauce may not be as rich. If using a lower-fat option, consider adding a bit of cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover creamy tomato basil chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess before warming it on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to the slow cooker. Just chop them into small pieces and add them at the beginning so they have enough time to cook down and absorb the flavors.
