Oh, let me tell you, nothing warms the soul quite like my slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken! This dish is like a hug in a bowl, combining tender chicken breasts with rich tomatoes and fragrant basil. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma filled my kitchen and had everyone asking, “What’s cooking?” It’s such an easy recipe, too—just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic! The creamy sauce brings everything together beautifully, making it perfect for any night of the week or even when guests come over. Trust me, once you try this dish, you’ll want to make it again and again. It’s comfort food at its finest, and I can’t wait for you to experience the joy it brings!

Ingredients List

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Prepare Instructions

Start by placing the chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Make sure they’re spread out a bit for even cooking.
Next, pour in the can of diced tomatoes along with their juices, then add the chicken broth. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything.
Now, cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for about 4 to 6 hours. The chicken will become tender and soak up all those delicious flavors.
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. It should fall apart easily—just wait until you see how juicy it is!
In the same slow cooker, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until it’s all well blended. Oh, the creaminess that’s about to happen!
Finally, add the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker along with the fresh chopped basil. Mix everything together well, cover, and cook for an additional 30 minutes on low. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless preparation: Just toss everything in your slow cooker and let it do the work for you!
Rich, creamy flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds—perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings.
Nutritious ingredients: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and lean chicken make this dish not just delicious but wholesome too.
Versatile: Serve it over pasta, rice, or even with crusty bread to soak up that luscious sauce.
Great for meal prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—it’s even better the next day!
Kid-friendly: The creamy tomato sauce is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Tips for Success

Now, let’s make sure your slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips to keep in mind:

Don’t skip the seasoning: Salt and pepper are your friends! Seasoning the chicken well before cooking really enhances the flavor, so don’t be shy.
Adjust the creaminess: If you’re looking for a lighter option, feel free to swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or even a lighter cream. It’ll still be delicious!
Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil is fantastic, but if you don’t have it on hand, dried basil can work in a pinch—just use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Experiment with veggies: Want to sneak in some extra nutrition? Toss in some spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini at the end for a pop of color and flavor!
Timing is key: If you’re short on time, you can cook on high for about 2-3 hours instead of low, just keep an eye on the chicken to ensure it stays juicy.
Let it rest: Once it’s done cooking, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken up a bit and makes for a better consistency.

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this comforting dish. Happy cooking!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up this slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken and make it your own! Here are a few variations I absolutely love:

Veggie-packed goodness: Add in some colorful bell peppers, sliced zucchini, or even fresh spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a nutritious boost. It not only adds flavor but also makes your dish more vibrant!
Herb twist: While fresh basil is a favorite, you can also experiment with other herbs. Try adding some fresh oregano or thyme for a different aromatic experience. Dried herbs can work too—just remember to adjust the amounts!
Cheesy delight: Want to amp up the creaminess? Stir in some cream cheese or mozzarella cheese along with the heavy cream for an extra cheesy twist. It’ll make the sauce even more luscious!
Protein swap: Don’t have chicken? No problem! You can use boneless, skinless turkey breasts or even shrimp for a delightful seafood variation. Just keep an eye on cooking times—shrimp cooks much quicker!
Spice it up: If you love a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper along with your seasonings for a spicy kick. It’s a great way to add depth to the flavor!
Gluten-free grains: Serve this dish over quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of traditional pasta or rice for a gluten-free option that’s still filling and delicious.

These variations can make your slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken feel brand new every time you whip it up. Get creative and have fun with it!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Let’s talk about how to store those delicious leftovers of your slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken! Honestly, this dish is just as good, if not better, the next day, so you’ll want to save every last bite.

To store, let the chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Make sure to keep it in the fridge, where it’ll stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. If you’re looking to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months! Just pop it in a freezer-safe container or bag, and be sure to label it with the date so you don’t forget.

When it’s time to reheat, you have a couple of options. For the best flavor and texture, I recommend reheating it on the stove over medium heat. Just add a splash of chicken broth or a bit of cream to keep it nice and creamy! Stir occasionally until it’s heated through.

If you’re pressed for time, you can also microwave it. Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or wrap, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until warmed to your liking. Just remember, be careful not to overheat, as that can dry it out!

Whichever method you choose, you’ll be ready to enjoy this comforting dish all over again. Happy reheating!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for my slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use:

Calories: 450
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 120mg
Protein: 40g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 600mg
Fiber: 1g

This dish packs a punch in protein while keeping carbs low, making it a satisfying option for a hearty meal. Enjoy knowing you’re savoring something that’s not only delicious but also nutritious!

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts, but you’ll want to cook it on high for about 4-5 hours instead of low. Just make sure the chicken is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before shredding.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! To keep it dairy-free, simply replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. You can also skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute to keep all that creamy goodness!

What can I serve with slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken?
This dish is super versatile! You can serve it over pasta, rice, or even quinoa for a hearty meal. A side salad or some crusty bread to mop up that delicious sauce works wonderfully too!

How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
The chicken is done when it’s fork-tender and shreds easily. If you have a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.

Can I add other vegetables to the slow cooker?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in some chopped bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini during the last hour of cooking. They’ll add extra flavor and nutrition to your slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving my slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken, the options are as delightful as the dish itself! Here are some of my favorite sides that really elevate the meal:

Pasta: Toss this creamy chicken over a bed of al dente spaghetti or fettuccine. The sauce clings to the noodles perfectly, and you’ll have a satisfying plate of comfort food!
Rice: Serve it over fluffy white rice or brown rice for a wholesome option that soaks up all that delicious sauce. You can even try jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant twist!
Quinoa: For a healthier alternative, quinoa is a fantastic choice. It adds a nutty flavor and extra protein, making your meal even more nutritious.
Crusty Bread: Don’t forget some crusty bread for dipping! A nice baguette or ciabatta is perfect for mopping up every last drop of that creamy sauce. Trust me, you won’t want to waste any of it!
Side Salad: A fresh side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully. The crispness of the salad balances the richness of the chicken, creating a lovely contrast.
Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans are excellent choices to add some color and nutrients. They offer a nice crunch and complement the creamy sauce perfectly.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll have a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy every bite!

slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken that warms your soul

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A rich and creamy dish made with chicken, tomatoes, and basil cooked slowly for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
Remove the chicken and shred it.
Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese into the slow cooker.
Add shredded chicken and basil back to the slow cooker.
Mix well and cook for an additional 30 minutes on low.

Notes

Serve with pasta or rice for a complete meal.
Can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter option.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 40g
Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken

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