Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a fantastic way to enjoy a rich and hearty meal with minimal effort. This recipe not only delights your taste buds but also makes weeknight dinners a joy rather than a chore. Imagine tender chicken simmered to perfection in a luscious creamy tomato and basil sauce, all cooked effortlessly in a slow cooker. This dish is perfect for busy families, solo cooks, or anyone looking for something truly rewarding at the end of a busy day.
If you are a fan of comfort food and easy cooking, this recipe targets your cravings perfectly. Each bite of this creamy tomato basil chicken promises an explosion of flavor, teamed with the richness of cream and the freshness of tomatoes and basil. It’s a wonderful meal that invites you to dive in deep and savor each mouthful, making it ideal for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or those nights when you just want to treat yourself.
With this easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll find that preparing Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is not only rewarding but also surprisingly simple. You’ll gather a few fresh ingredients and let the slow cooker do the hard work for you. Whether you serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside a crusty loaf of bread, this dish will become a family favorite in no time. Let’s explore why this recipe stands out and how you can bring this incredible dish to your dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken combines several elements that make it a must-try. Here are some reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for this adaptation:
1. Minimal Prep Time: Just throw the ingredients into the slow cooker, and you’re set.
2. Rich Flavor: The blend of tomatoes, cream, and basil creates a heavenly sauce that elevates the chicken.
3. Healthy Ingredients: Incorporating fresh basil and tomatoes ensures a nutritious meal.
4. Family-Friendly: All ages love this creamy dish, making it perfect for family dinners.
5. Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over pasta, rice, or on its own with side vegetables.
6. Make-Ahead Magic: Make it in the morning and have it ready by dinner time with no stress involved.
These points highlight why Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. The combination of tender chicken bathed in a creamy, savory sauce is simply irresistible!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparing Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken takes about 10 minutes of hands-on work, with cooking time encompassing several hours. Here’s the breakdown of the time involved:
– Preparation Time: 10 minutes
– Cooking Time: 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
– Total Time: Approximately 4 hours and 10 minutes to 6 hours and 10 minutes, depending on your preferred cooking setting.
These times can vary slightly based on the size of the chicken pieces and the specific model of your slow cooker.

Ingredients

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these straightforward instructions to create your Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken:
1. Prep Chicken: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Add Tomatoes: Pour the crushed tomatoes over the chicken, ensuring the meat is well-covered.
3. Mix Aromatics: In a bowl, combine chopped onions, minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
4. Drizzle Olive Oil: Pour the olive oil over the mixture and stir well.
5. Combine Ingredients: Add the aromatic mixture on top of the crushed tomatoes and chicken, spreading it evenly.
6. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Cook until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
7. Add Cream: With the chicken nearly cooked, pour in the heavy cream and chopped fresh basil. Stir gently to combine.
8. Finish Cooking: Let it cook on high for an additional 30 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.
9. Shred Chicken (Optional): For a more rustic presentation, shred the chicken in the sauce with two forks, or leave the breasts whole according to preference.
10. Serve: Once everything is heated through, and the sauce is creamy and aromatic, your dish is ready to be served.
These steps guide you effortlessly through preparing this incredible dish from start to finish!

How to Serve

To serve Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken in a way that impresses your guests and family, consider the following suggestions:
1. Over Pasta or Rice: Serve the creamy chicken over freshly cooked pasta, like fettuccine or penne, or fluffy white rice for a satisfying meal.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and extra fresh basil before serving for added flavor and aesthetics.
3. Fresh Bread: Offer a side of crusty Italian bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
4. Vegetable Side: Pair with a steamed green vegetable, like broccoli or green beans, for a balanced plate.
5. Wine Pairing: Consider serving with a glass of white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the flavors beautifully.
Taking these serving suggestions into account will elevate your dining experience, making Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken not just a meal, but an occasion to remember. Enjoy the delight and satisfaction this recipe brings to your table!

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Basil: Fresh basil significantly enhances the flavor of Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken. It’s worth the extra effort to procure fresh herbs for that bright, aromatic kick.
– Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can let the dish cook a little longer after adding the cream. Alternatively, a cornstarch slurry can help thicken the sauce if needed.
– Spice It Up: For a little extra heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes when combining the aromatics. This will give your dish a delightful kick without overpowering its delicious creaminess.
– Pair Carefully: Choose side dishes that complement the creamy texture of the chicken. Light salads, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread work wonderfully.
– Control the Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream. The flavor will still be excellent, but less rich.

Recipe Variation

Experimenting with this recipe can lead to delicious new creations. Here are some fun twists on the original Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken:
1. Pesto Version: Swap out the basil for a cup of pesto for a different flavor profile. This gives the dish a delightful herby essence with an Italian flair.
2. Add Veggies: Toss in some fresh spinach or cherry tomatoes during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This adds more nutrients and balances the creamy sauce.
3. Cheese Lovers: Stir in some mozzarella cheese in the last 10 minutes for a gooey, cheesy delight.
4. Chicken Alternatives: Use boneless thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor, as thighs remain more moist during the cooking process.
5. Make It a Soup: Add chicken broth to the slow cooker and increase the cream amount for a creamy tomato basil soup.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Leftovers can be stored tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
– Freezing: If you would like to freeze the dish, make sure it cools completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of cream or chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

Special Equipment

To prepare Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken, you will need:
– Slow Cooker: The heart of this recipe. Choose a model with a good seal to retain moisture.
– Chopping Board and Knife: For prepping the vegetables and chicken.
– Mixing Bowl: To combine the aromatics before adding to the slow cooker.
– Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accuracy in gathering ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but add an extra hour to the cooking time. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, crusty bread, or a side of vegetables to balance out the meal.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream. Consider adding extra seasonings for depth of flavor.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F. A food thermometer is the most accurate way to check.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
You can create your own blend using dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary for similar flavor.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is more than just a dinner; it’s a comforting and fulfilling meal that brings families together. The ease of preparation and the delightful fusion of flavors make this dish a must-have for your recipe collection. Whether enjoyed on a busy weeknight or served to guests, it provides satisfaction and comfort in every bite. With the tips, variations, and serving suggestions provided, you can make this dish your own and enjoy it time and time again.

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