Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can enjoy a hearty meal that bursts with flavor. The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with the tender chicken, making it a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for an easy dinner recipe, this dish will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can set this dish and forget about it until dinner.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of tomatoes, garlic, and basil creates a deliciously creamy sauce that elevates the chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this dish fits well into many diets.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and store leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing this Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken requires just a few essential tools. Having these handy will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring the chicken becomes perfectly tender while you go about your day.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining ingredients before adding them to the slow cooker; keeps things organized.
• Whisk: Helps to blend the cream and cornstarch smoothly, preventing lumps in your sauce.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures that your chicken is cooked safely to 165°F for optimal taste and texture.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make your own Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken.

For the Sauce

• 1 can diced tomatoes with Italian herbs (with juice) (14oz or 398ml)
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 3 cloves garlic (finely minced)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

For the Chicken

• ½ cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Add the diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, minced garlic, salt, Italian seasoning, dried basil, and pepper to a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 2: Mix Cream and Cornstarch

In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy whipping cream and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker with the other ingredients.

Step 3: Add Chicken

Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts into the slow cooker. Press them down gently into the sauce so they are well-coated.

Step 4: Cook on Low

Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours. Check that a meat thermometer inserted in the thickest part of one chicken breast reads 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once done cooking, stir in freshly chopped basil. Taste your sauce and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

This dish is not just flavorful; it’s also versatile when it comes to serving. You can easily enhance your meal with a few simple sides or garnishes that complement the creamy tomato basil chicken.

With Pasta

• Spaghetti or Fettuccine: Toss cooked pasta with the sauce for a hearty meal.
• Penne or Rigatoni: These shapes hold onto the sauce beautifully, making each bite delicious.

On Rice

• White Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the creamy sauce perfectly.
• Wild Rice: Adds earthy flavors and textures, enhancing the overall dish.

With Bread

• Garlic Bread: The perfect companion for dipping into the rich sauce.
• Crusty Baguette: Use slices to scoop up the chicken and sauce for a delightful experience.

Garnished with Cheese

• Shredded Mozzarella: Melts beautifully on top of each serving.
• Parmesan Crumbles: Add a nutty flavor and texture contrast when sprinkled on top.

Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Fresh Basil: Brightens up the dish and adds freshness.
• Parsley Sprigs: A vibrant green garnish that enhances presentation.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

To achieve a truly exceptional Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken, consider these expert tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs elevate the flavor profile significantly.
• Adjust Seasoning Wisely: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for balanced flavors.
• Sear Chicken First (Optional): For deeper flavors, quickly sear the chicken in a pan before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Thicken Sauce if Needed: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes.
• Cook Low and Slow: Always opt for low heat; this tenderizes the chicken beautifully while infusing flavors.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing it to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps redistribute juices in the chicken.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Pairing your Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make an indulgent side that pairs wonderfully with this dish.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with tangy dressing offers a fresh contrast to the rich chicken.
4. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly seasoned green beans provide crunch and brightness alongside your main dish.
5. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed option that adds texture and complements flavors well.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings summer vibes and pairs nicely with creamy sauces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common errors that could affect the dish’s overall flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Using low-quality tomatoes: Using inferior canned tomatoes can lead to a bland sauce. Always choose high-quality diced tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season your dish properly can result in a lackluster meal. Make sure to add all specified herbs and spices for optimal taste.
• Not checking chicken doneness: Failing to check if the chicken is fully cooked can be risky. Always use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F in the thickest part of the chicken.
• Rushing the cooking time: Cooking on high instead of low may lead to dry chicken. Stick to the recommended low cooking time for juicy results.
• Ignoring fresh herbs at the end: Adding fresh basil at the end enhances flavor but skipping it diminishes taste. Always stir in fresh herbs before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• • Containers: Use airtight containers to keep it fresh.

Freezing Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

• • Duration: Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• • Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.

Reheating Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and cover it with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken:

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken?

You can pair this dish with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used as an alternative. They will still yield a flavorful result.

How do I make Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken healthier?

Consider using low-fat cream or substituting heavy cream with Greek yogurt to reduce calories while maintaining creaminess.

Is it possible to customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken?

It takes about 3-4 hours on low heat for the chicken to cook thoroughly.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. This versatile dish allows you to customize it according to your preferences by adding various vegetables or adjusting seasonings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!