Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breasts: A Flavorful, Easy Dinner
When you’re looking for a simple yet delicious dinner, this Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breasts recipe is the perfect solution. Packed with Italian-inspired flavors and creamy goodness, this dish is a comforting meal that requires minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to enjoy tender, juicy chicken in a rich tomato-basil sauce that’s perfect for pairing with pasta, rice, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes with Italian herbs (398 ml)
- 1 cup tomato pasta sauce
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons corn starch
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a 3-6 quart slow cooker, combine the diced tomatoes with Italian herbs, tomato pasta sauce, minced garlic, salt, Italian seasoning, dried basil, and black pepper. Stir everything together to create the flavorful base of the dish.
Step 2: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk (or heavy cream) and corn starch until smooth. Add this mixture to the slow cooker and stir well to combine. This will give the sauce a creamy consistency as it cooks.
Step 3: Add the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts into the slow cooker, pressing them down so they are fully submerged in the sauce. This ensures the chicken stays moist and absorbs all the flavors while cooking.
Step 4: Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-5 hours, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). The cook time may vary depending on the size of your slow cooker and the thickness of the chicken breasts, so it’s best to check the chicken’s doneness toward the end of the cooking time.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked through, stir in the freshly chopped basil just before serving for a burst of fresh flavor. Serve the creamy tomato basil chicken over pasta, rice, or alongside a fresh salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
Recipe Details:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 3-5 hours
- Total Time: 3-5 hours and 10 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 350 kcal per serving
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken:
- Effortless Cooking: This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Simply prep the ingredients, toss them in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic.
- Rich, Creamy Sauce: The combination of tomato pasta sauce, diced tomatoes, and cream (or evaporated milk) creates a luxurious, flavorful sauce that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve this dish over pasta, rice, or alongside a side of vegetables. It’s versatile enough to fit into any dinner plan!
- Fresh Basil Finish: The addition of fresh basil right before serving brings a vibrant flavor that elevates the whole dish.
Tips for Success:
- Check the Chicken’s Doneness: Depending on your slow cooker and the thickness of your chicken breasts, the cooking time may vary. Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- Make it Dairy-Free: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the evaporated milk or cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or almond milk.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breasts recipe is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to prepare and packed with rich Italian flavors. Whether you’re serving it over pasta or rice, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
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Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breasts
- Total Time: 3-5 hours and 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a comforting, flavorful dish that is perfect for weeknight dinners. The combination of tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich tomato and herb sauce, along with a creamy finish, creates a hearty meal everyone will love. The addition of fresh basil at the end brings brightness to the sauce, perfectly complementing the rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes with Italian herbs (398 ml)
1 cup tomato pasta sauce
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup evaporated milk or heavy cream
2 tablespoons corn starch
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped
Instructions
Prepare the sauce: In a 3-6 quart slow cooker, add the diced tomatoes, tomato pasta sauce, minced garlic, salt, Italian seasoning, dried basil, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
Thicken the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk (or heavy cream) and corn starch. Add the mixture to the slow cooker and stir well.
Add the chicken: Place the chicken breasts into the slow cooker, pressing them down so they are submerged in the sauce.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 3-5 hours, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). The cook time may vary depending on your slow cooker size and how full it is.
Finish and serve: Stir in the fresh basil just before serving. Enjoy over pasta, rice, or serve with a side of salad and veggies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-5 hours
Nutrition
- Calories: 350