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Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a rich, comforting dish featuring tender boneless chicken simmered in a velvety tomato and fresh basil sauce. This easy-to-make recipe combines simple ingredients and hands-off cooking to deliver a satisfying family-friendly meal perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 4 boneless chicken breasts or thighs

Sauce Ingredients

  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Gather all ingredients. Lightly sauté the minced garlic in olive oil over medium heat until fragrant to enhance its flavor before adding to the slow cooker.
  2. Layer the Slow Cooker: Place the boneless chicken breasts or thighs evenly at the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the canned diced tomatoes over the chicken, then season with salt and black pepper to taste, ensuring the sauce surrounds the meat evenly.
  3. Slow Cook on Low: Cover and cook on the low setting for 4 to 6 hours, allowing the chicken to become juicy and tender while the flavors meld beautifully.
  4. Finish with Cream and Basil: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and add the fresh basil leaves. This step builds the creamy texture and infuses the dish with fresh herb aroma.
  5. Add Parmesan and Serve: Just before plating, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir gently to thicken the sauce slightly and add rich, savory depth.

Notes

  • Use fresh basil added at the end to preserve vibrant flavor and color.
  • Do not overcook the chicken; 4-6 hours on low is ideal to keep it tender and juicy.
  • Heavy cream provides the best silky sauce texture; lighter creams can be substituted for less richness.
  • Sautéing garlic before slow cooking unlocks more complex flavors.
  • Choose to shred or slice the cooked chicken based on your preferred serving style.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker chicken, creamy tomato basil chicken, easy chicken dinner, slow cooker recipes, family-friendly chicken, creamy chicken dish