The aroma of Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken wafts through the air, wrapping you in warmth like a cozy hug on a chilly day. Picture tender chicken swimming in a luscious tomato sauce, brightened with fragrant basil and a hint of cream – it’s comfort food at its finest.
I remember the first time I made this dish; I was trying to impress my husband on a lazy Sunday evening. Little did I know that this divine concoction would become our go-to family favorite, perfect for cozy dinners or hurried weeknight meals when we need something easy yet delicious.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish offers effortless preparation, allowing you to toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic
- The flavor profile is rich and creamy, with tomatoes mingling beautifully with fresh basil
- Visually, the vibrant colors make it an eye-catching centerpiece on any dinner table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with pasta, rice, or even crusty bread!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts for optimal tenderness; feel free to adjust based on your crowd size.
Canned Diced Tomatoes: Go for quality brands; they provide a rich base for your sauce.
Heavy Cream: This adds that luxurious creaminess; don’t skimp out—it’s worth it!
Fresh Basil: Use fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch; dried basil just doesn’t cut it here.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic infuses the dish with flavor; choose firm cloves for the best results.
Onion: A sweet onion works wonders in creating a rich foundation for flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those beautiful flavors.
For the Sauce:
Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs brings an extra layer of flavor; it’s like a party in your mouth!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
Start by preparing your chicken. Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker—no need to worry about cutting them up yet! Just let them sit there looking pretty while you prepare other ingredients.
Chop the onion and garlic next. Sauté them in a pan over medium heat until the onion becomes translucent and releases that lovely sweet aroma—about five minutes should do the trick. Trust me; this step is worth it!
Now add those sautéed onions and garlic directly into your slow cooker along with the canned diced tomatoes. Stir everything together gently so your chicken gets all those flavorful goodies hugging it tightly.
Next up is adding your heavy cream into the mix. Pour it over everything carefully. You want this dish to be creamy but not swimming in liquid!
Sprinkle in salt and pepper along with Italian seasoning and fresh basil leaves. Give one last gentle stir before putting on the lid and setting your slow cooker to low for about six hours or high for four hours.
As it cooks, allow yourself to dream about how amazing dinner will taste tonight. The aroma will fill your kitchen like an irresistible invitation to feast!
When time’s up, check if the chicken is cooked through by shredding it gently with two forks right there in your slow cooker—it’s easier than trying to transfer it out! Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
Finally, serve this creamy delight hot over pasta or rice, garnishing each plate with extra basil if you’re feeling fancy! Enjoy every last bite of this comforting bowl of happiness that’s perfect for any occasion!
You Must Know
- This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken recipe offers a deliciously rich flavor while making meal prep a breeze
- Customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
- The vibrant colors and aromas will make your dinner table come alive
- Perfect for busy weeknights but fancy enough for guests!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken to lock in flavors, then toss in diced tomatoes, cream, and basil. Let the slow cooker work its magic while you put your feet up or catch up on your favorite show—multitasking at its finest!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or add some spinach for an extra veggie boost. Experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme for a unique twist that suits your palate!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, warm gently on the stove to preserve that creamy goodness without separating.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To enhance flavor, marinate the chicken overnight with spices before cooking
- Use fresh basil instead of dried for a brighter taste
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving—your palate knows best!
Sometimes I whip up this Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken when friends come over, and they always ask for seconds—it’s become my secret weapon for impressing guests!
FAQs:
What is the cooking time for Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken?
Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken typically requires about 4 to 6 hours on low heat or 2 to 3 hours on high heat. The time can vary based on the size of the chicken pieces and your specific slow cooker model. Always ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F for food safety. This gentle cooking method helps to retain moisture, making the chicken tender and flavorful.
Can I use fresh basil in this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh basil when making Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken. Fresh herbs add vibrant flavor and aroma that enhance the dish significantly. If using fresh basil, add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking to preserve its bright taste. Dried basil is an alternative if fresh isn’t available, but use it sparingly as it is more concentrated in flavor.
What sides pair well with Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken?
Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over cooked pasta, rice, or quinoa for a hearty meal. Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad also complement the dish nicely, adding balance and freshness. For a comforting touch, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken for later enjoyment. After cooking, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It’s best consumed within three months for optimal flavor. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove or slow cooker until heated through.
Conclusion for Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken:
In summary, Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken offers a deliciously easy way to enjoy tender chicken infused with rich flavors. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weekdays or cozy gatherings. Remember to adjust cooking times based on your slow cooker’s settings and feel free to customize with fresh herbs and sides of your choice. Enjoy this comforting dish any night of the week!
Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich and creamy tomato-basil sauce. Effortlessly made in your slow cooker, this dish is bursting with flavor and perfect for cozy family dinners or quick weeknight meals. Serve it over pasta or rice, and enjoy the deliciousness that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium sweet onion, chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until translucent (about 5 minutes), then add to the slow cooker.
- Add diced tomatoes and heavy cream; stir gently to combine.
- Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and fresh basil; stir again.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker and mix well before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 660mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
