Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a comforting and effortless dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich, creamy tomato basil sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy slow cooker recipe pairs well with pasta, rice, or vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-5 hours
- Total Time: 3-5 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes with Italian herbs
- 1 cup tomato pasta sauce
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup heavy cream or evaporated milk
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce – In a 3-6 quart slow cooker, combine diced tomatoes, pasta sauce, garlic, salt, Italian seasoning, dried basil, and black pepper. Stir well.
- Add the Cream Mixture – In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream (or evaporated milk) and cornstarch until smooth. Pour into the slow cooker and mix with the tomato sauce.
- Add Chicken – Place the chicken breasts into the slow cooker, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce.
- Slow Cook – Cover and cook on low for 3-5 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Finish and Serve – Stir in fresh basil and serve the creamy tomato basil chicken over pasta, rice, or alongside a fresh salad.
Notes
- For extra flavor, stir in grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese before serving.
- To thicken the sauce, mix equal parts cornstarch and cold water, then stir into the slow cooker and cook on high for 15-20 minutes.
- Vegetable additions – Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers in the last hour of cooking.
- Storage – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
