This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a warm hug in a bowl. Juicy chicken breasts swim in a rich, creamy sauce made with tomatoes and fresh basil that makes your taste buds dance!
Cooking is a breeze—just toss everything in and let the slow cooker do its magic. I usually serve it over pasta or rice for a cozy dinner that feels fancy without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to cook and absorb flavors well. If you prefer, you could use skin-on chicken for a richer taste or even thighs for more juiciness.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are perfect for convenience. You can substitute with crushed tomatoes or a fresh tomato blend if you’re feeling more adventurous. Just keep the juices in!
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Keep in mind that texture and flavor may vary slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for maximum flavor! If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) can work well too.
Fresh Basil: It adds great freshness, but if you can’t find it, dried basil can substitute in a pinch. Use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do I Make the Cream Sauce Perfectly Creamy?
The key to a delicious and creamy sauce is timing and temperature. Adding the cream and cheese towards the end ensures they don’t separate or curdle during the longer cooking time.
- When you add the cream and cheese 30 minutes before serving, stir well to mix everything smoothly.
- Cooking it uncovered allows moisture to evaporate and thickens the sauce. If it’s too thick, just add a splash of chicken broth to adjust the consistency.
How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breasts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Browning:
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for browning, if desired)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and can be cooked in the slow cooker for either 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. A little planning ahead will reward you with a warm, creamy meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Chicken:
Start by taking the chicken breasts and seasoning them with salt and pepper. This adds a lovely flavor right from the beginning!
2. Optional Browning:
If you’d like, you can add some extra flavor by browning the chicken. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they get a nice golden color. This step is optional, so feel free to skip it if you’re short on time!
3. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
Now, place the chicken (browned or raw) in your slow cooker. Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes, chicken broth, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Add half of the chopped basil, then give everything a gentle stir to combine. It’s starting to come together!
4. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and let it work magic! Cook the chicken on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
5. Make the Cream Sauce:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, it’s time to make it creamy! Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese into the slow cooker. Mix it well and cook uncovered for the remaining time, which will help thicken the sauce. Yum!
6. Serve:
Once everything is cooked to perfection, garnish your dish with the remaining fresh basil and sprinkle on some extra Parmesan cheese if you like. Serve this creamy tomato basil chicken with pasta, rice, or a slice of crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure they are fully thawed before cooking. The best way to thaw them is in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for a few hours.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt for a creamy texture. Just remember that it might be less rich in flavor.
How to Store Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You can also add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep the sauce creamy!
Can I Add More Veggies to This Dish?
Absolutely! Consider adding spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the slow cooker for added nutrition and flavor. Add them early in the cooking process with the other ingredients to ensure they cook through.
