This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breasts recipe is a real treat! Juicy chicken cooks slowly in a rich, creamy tomato sauce with fresh basil, making a delightful meal.
It’s like a warm hug on a plate! I love serving it over pasta or rice, and trust me, the sauce is so good you’ll want to spoon it up all day long. 🍽️
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless breasts keep the dish lean and easy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider substituting with skinless chicken thighs, which can add extra moisture and flavor!
Crushed tomatoes: These are key for flavor. If you can’t find crushed tomatoes, feel free to use diced tomatoes and mash them slightly or even tomato puree for a smoother texture.
Heavy cream: This makes the sauce rich. For a lighter option or dairy-free version, coconut milk or cashew cream can work well, although they may change the flavor a bit.
Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a great cheesy touch. If you need a dairy-free alternative, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Fresh basil: Fresh basil at the end brightens the dish. If you don’t have fresh, dried basil can substitute, but use only half since it’s more concentrated.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Tender Chicken in a Slow Cooker?
Getting tender chicken is all about the cooking time and temperature. Since you’re slow cooking, aim for low and slow. This will keep the chicken moist. Here’s how to do it right:
- Place the chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker where it cooks evenly.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time; avoid overcooking. Aim for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
- For even more juiciness, let the chicken rest in the sauce for a few minutes after cooking.
Checking with a meat thermometer ensures it’s at least 165°F (75°C) for safety. Enjoy your deliciously tender chicken!
Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breasts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Main Dish:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious slow cooker recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and requires 6-7 hours to cook on low or 3-4 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day, you can set it up in the morning and come home to a wonderful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure they are in a single layer for even cooking.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, dried basil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed together.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Pour the tomato mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Make sure the chicken is well coated with the mixture to soak up all the flavors.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and tender when done. You can check it by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Finish the Dish:
Once the chicken is ready, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix it in until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed—sometimes a little extra salt or pepper makes a big difference!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy tomato basil chicken over pasta, rice, or with a crusty piece of bread for dipping. Before serving, garnish with fresh, chopped basil for an extra touch of flavor and color. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure to increase the cooking time by an hour on low or 30 minutes on high. The chicken needs to be cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and sour cream. For a dairy-free version, try using coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, which will also add a unique flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover creamy tomato basil chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. If it seems a bit thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating to loosen the sauce.
Can I Add Veggies to This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add diced bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the slow cooker along with the tomato mixture. Just remember that denser vegetables may need a bit longer to cook. If adding leafy greens like spinach, stir them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking for best results.
