This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breast is a cozy meal that’s super easy to make. Just toss everything in your slow cooker and let it work its magic!
The chicken becomes tender and flavorful, swimming in a creamy tomato sauce that’s perfect over rice or pasta. I like to add a sprinkle of extra basil on top because more flavor is always better! 🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish, as they cook evenly and soak up the flavors. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can use chicken thighs or even turkey breast instead.
Crushed Tomatoes: This provides the base of your sauce. If you prefer a fresher taste, use fresh tomatoes (about 6-8 medium) or even canned diced tomatoes. Just be sure to blend them for a smoother sauce.
Heavy Cream: This gives your dish a rich, creamy texture. If you’re looking to lighten it up, you can substitute half and half, or canned coconut milk for a dairy-free option, though it will change the flavor slightly.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is best for that vibrant flavor. You can substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried basil if needed, but I find fresh makes a big difference!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice depth of flavor. If you’re in a pinch, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) can also work well.
How Do You Make Sure the Chicken is Tender and Juicy?
The key to tender chicken is cooking it slow and low. This method helps break down the proteins, making it juicy rather than dry. Here’s how to ensure perfect chicken:
- Sear the chicken in the skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. This adds flavor and helps lock in moisture.
- Don’t rush the cooking time! If you’re using the slow cooker, aim for the longer time on low heat for the best texture.
- When shredding or slicing, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep the juices trapped inside.
How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
- Olive oil for sautéing
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 15 minutes to prep and 6 hours to cook on low or 3 hours on high. After cooking, you’ll need an extra 10 minutes to prepare the pasta and get everything ready to serve. Overall, it’s an easy and comforting dish that is worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion turns translucent. This will give your dish a wonderful aroma and flavor!
2. Mix the Sauce Ingredients:
In your slow cooker, combine the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, chopped basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir to mix it well. This creamy sauce will be the star of the dish!
3. Add the Chicken:
Now it’s time to add the chicken breasts to the slow cooker. Place them gently in the sauce and make sure they are coated well with the creamy tomato mixture.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours. The chicken will be perfectly cooked through and super tender when it’s done!
5. Shred the Chicken and Add Cheese:
Once cooked, take the chicken out of the slow cooker. You can shred it with two forks or slice it into pieces—whichever you prefer! Don’t forget to stir in the grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce for added richness.
6. Cook the Fettuccine:
While preparing the chicken, cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside once it’s ready.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
To serve, place the cooked fettuccine on plates and spoon the creamy tomato basil sauce over it. Add the sliced chicken on top and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a lovely finish!
8. Dig In!
Your Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breast is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it warm and savor the delightful flavors!
## FAQ for Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breast
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs tend to be more flavorful and tender. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if they’re larger; they may need an extra 30 minutes to cook through on low.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that the sauce may be less creamy with these substitutions.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the pasta from getting soggy, you may want to store the pasta separately from the sauce. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of cream or water to loosen it up.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can freeze the creamy tomato basil chicken and sauce! Just let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove over low heat.
