This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and a handful of pantry ingredients, it delivers rich, creamy tomato flavor with tender chicken. Serve it over pasta or with a side salad for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s an effortless slow cooker recipe that’s mostly hands-off.
- Rich in creamy tomato and fresh basil flavors.
- Perfect over pasta, rice, or as a standalone dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless work best, but thighs are also an option.
- Tomato Pasta Sauce: Use a well-seasoned marinara or similar sauce.
- Diced Tomatoes: Opt for canned tomatoes with herbs for extra flavor.
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic adds depth.
- Seasonings: Salt, Italian seasoning, dried basil, and black pepper.
- Heavy Cream or Evaporated Milk: Ensures a rich, creamy sauce without curdling.
- Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce.
- Fresh Basil: Chopped for garnish and added flavor.
How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- In a slow cooker, combine the pasta sauce, diced tomatoes, garlic, and seasonings.
- Whisk the cornstarch into the cream and stir the mixture into the slow cooker.
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and submerge them into the sauce.
- Cook on low for 3-5 hours until the chicken reaches 165°F.
- Stir in fresh basil before serving.
Helpful Tips:
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Check its temperature after 3 hours.
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensures the chicken is safely cooked.
- Slow cooker size: A 4-quart slow cooker works, but for doubling the recipe, use a 6-quart one.
Details:
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-5 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Notes:
- This recipe can be adjusted for taste, like adding red pepper flakes for spice.
- You can substitute fresh basil with basil pesto if unavailable.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use chicken thighs? Yes, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Can I use milk instead of cream? It’s not recommended as milk may curdle during cooking. Use heavy cream or evaporated milk for best results.
Storage Instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave.
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Conclusion:
This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is an easy, family-friendly dinner with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor. Perfect for any night of the week!
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Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
Description
This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and a handful of pantry ingredients, it delivers rich, creamy tomato flavor with tender chicken. Serve it over pasta or with a side salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless work best, but thighs are also an option.
- Tomato Pasta Sauce: Use a well-seasoned marinara or similar sauce.
- Diced Tomatoes: Opt for canned tomatoes with herbs for extra flavor.
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic adds depth.
- Seasonings: Salt, Italian seasoning, dried basil, and black pepper.
- Heavy Cream or Evaporated Milk: Ensures a rich, creamy sauce without curdling.
- Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce.
- Fresh Basil: Chopped for garnish and added flavor.
Instructions
- In a slow cooker, combine the pasta sauce, diced tomatoes, garlic, and seasonings.
- Whisk the cornstarch into the cream and stir the mixture into the slow cooker.
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and submerge them into the sauce.
- Cook on low for 3-5 hours until the chicken reaches 165°F.
- Stir in fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- This recipe can be adjusted for taste, like adding red pepper flakes for spice.
- You can substitute fresh basil with basil pesto if unavailable.
