If there’s one recipe I’d return to again and again, it’s this Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken. After making it last week, I couldn’t wait to share the slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken recipe with you all! The chicken was so tender, the creamy tomato-basil sauce was downright addictive, and it required minimal effort.

It reminded me of the comforting flavors you’d expect from something like these chicken enchiladas with homemade red enchilada sauce, but with a completely unique twist. This recipe is versatile enough for a family dinner or a special occasion, and trust me, it will wow your taste buds.

Ingredients you Will Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this amazing dish, along with some tips to get it just right:

Boneless skinless chicken breasts (4 pieces): These work perfectly since they cook evenly and remain juicy. If preferred, you can swap them for chicken thighs.
Tomato pasta sauce (1 cup): Opt for a marinara-style sauce with bold, rich flavors for the best results.
Canned diced tomatoes with Italian herbs (14 oz): Adds texture and depth; if you’re not a fan of tomato chunks, use an extra cup of pasta sauce instead.
Minced garlic (2 teaspoons): Freshly minced garlic really enhances the flavor.
Salt (1 teaspoon) and Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): These spices tie everything together with a classic Mediterranean kick.
Dried basil (½ teaspoon) and black pepper (¼ teaspoon): For a subtle yet essential seasoning.
Heavy cream or evaporated milk (½ cup): Gives the sauce its creamy texture without curdling. Avoid low-fat options here.
Corn starch (2 tablespoons): Helps to thicken the sauce beautifully.
Fresh basil (2 tablespoons), finely chopped: The finishing touch for a fresh and aromatic flair.

Note: This recipe serves four people generously. Adjust the proportions if making it for more or fewer servings.

Variations to Try

You can customize this recipe to suit your dietary preferences or experiment with flavors:

Dairy-Free Version: Use full-fat coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the tomato base.
Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
Low-Carb Swap: Serve the chicken with spiralized zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
Herb Alternatives: If fresh basil isn’t available, use basil pesto for an equally bright flavor.

If you’re inspired to explore other easy dinner ideas, you can also enjoy similar savory dishes from this dinner recipes collection, perfect for weeknight meals.

Cooking Time

Here’s how much time you’ll need from start to finish:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 3-4 hours on low or 2-2.5 hours on high
Total Time: About 4 hours (depending on your slow cooker setting)

Equipment You Need

Gather these tools for a seamless cooking process:

Slow cooker (4-6 quarts): For even, hands-off cooking.
Sharp knife: To finely chop fresh basil and garlic.
Mixing bowl: For whisking the cream and cornstarch.
Whisk: Ensures smooth incorporation of ingredients.
Meat thermometer: To check if the chicken is properly cooked (165°F is ideal).
Serving utensils or tongs: Makes plating and portioning easy.

How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

This recipe is straightforward, and the slow cooker does most of the work. Here’s how you can recreate the magic step by step:

Step 1 – Prepare the Base

Start by pouring the tomato pasta sauce and canned diced tomatoes into your slow cooker. Add the minced garlic, salt, Italian seasoning, dried basil, and black pepper. Stir everything thoroughly to create a flavorful base.

Step 2 – Whisk the Cream

Next, whisk together the heavy cream and corn starch in a mixing bowl until smooth. This mixture will give your sauce its creamy and luscious consistency. Add it to the slow cooker and gently stir to combine with the tomato base.

Step 3 – Add the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts into the slow cooker, ensuring they are well-coated with the sauce. Submerge them slightly for even cooking and better flavor absorption.

Step 4 – Cook to Perfection

Set your slow cooker to low for 3-4 hours or high for 2-2.5 hours. Check the internal temperature of the chicken toward the end of the cooking time to ensure it has reached 165°F.

Step 5 – Add Fresh Basil

Stir in the finely chopped fresh basil just before serving. This step adds a burst of freshness and rounds out the flavors beautifully.

slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken recipe — Source: IG(thereciperebel. com)

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

I’ve made this recipe multiple times, and here are some tips for making it even better:

Don’t overcrowd the slow cooker. If the chicken is crammed together, it may not cook evenly.
Use a high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor. This truly makes a difference.
Stir the sauce gently halfway through cooking to prevent any separation.
Always use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking the chicken.
For an easier cleanup, consider using slow cooker liners.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Serve this dish over freshly cooked pasta, such as spaghetti or penne, for a comforting meal. Alternatively, pair it with a side of buttery mashed potatoes or even some warm crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a restaurant-quality presentation. You might also enjoy trying it with a twist by checking out these chicken mashed potato bowls for another hearty pairing idea.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	210
Protein	29g
Carbohydrates	16g
Fat	3g

How to Store the Recipe

Storing your leftovers properly ensures they remain just as delicious the next day:

Refrigerating: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.
Freezing: You can freeze the chicken and sauce for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm the dish on low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this recipe is a favorite in my kitchen:

Minimal Prep: Throw everything into the slow cooker and relax.
Family-Approved Flavor: The creamy tomato-basil combination is a hit.
Versatile Pairings: Serve over pasta, rice, or veggies.
Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.
Customizable: Adapt the ingredients to suit your needs.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, but thaw them completely before adding them to the slow cooker. Cooking from frozen may result in uneven cooking.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! Use the sauté function for the sauce, followed by pressure cooking the chicken for 10-15 minutes on high.

Can I omit the cream for a lighter version?

Yes, you can substitute the cream with evaporated milk or even Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?

Corn starch is the easiest thickener. If you prefer, you can use a flour slurry instead.

Ben Carraoli