Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe

Ben Carraoli

Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe

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 it with you all! The chicken was so tender, the creamy tomato-basil sauce was downright addictive, and it required minimal effort.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 4

Total Time 4 10

Servings: 4

Course: Dinner

Calories: 210

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

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.

Method

Prepare the Base: Add tomato pasta sauce, canned diced tomatoes, minced garlic, salt, Italian seasoning, dried basil, and black pepper to the slow cooker. Stir well.
Whisk the Cream: Mix heavy cream and corn starch until smooth, then add to the slow cooker and combine with the tomato base.
Add Chicken: Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring they are coated and slightly submerged in the sauce.
Cook: Set slow cooker to low (3-4 hours) or high (2-2.5 hours) until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Finish with Fresh Basil: Stir in chopped fresh basil before serving for added freshness and flavor.

Notes

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.