Slow cooker tomato basil chicken is the answer to those wild, midweek dinner scrambles when you’re juggling work, school pickups, and a soccer practice that never ends. I can’t tell you how many times this recipe has swooped in to save my sanity. The best part? No fancy steps and no need for chef-level skills—just a cozy Crockpot and a few pantry staples.
Sometimes, I’ll toss everything in the slow cooker, slam the lid, and dash out the door, only to come home hours later to a kitchen smelling like a little Italian bistro (minus the chaos and broken plates). This slow cooker tomato basil chicken is my go-to for nights when I want something hearty, creamy, and just plain comforting. When the weather turns chilly or the day’s just been a lot, there’s nothing better than coming home to a bubbling pot of tomato-basil goodness.
Personal Anecdote
First, let’s talk about kitchen chaos. One night, I was elbow-deep in laundry, and the clock was ticking dangerously close to dinner meltdown hour. That’s when I remembered my trusty slow cooker tomato basil chicken. I frantically opened a can of tomatoes, splashed in some marinara, and—oops—dropped a spoon on the floor (don’t worry, I washed it). This recipe has rescued me from so many takeout temptations, especially when all I want is a homemade dinner without the drama.
Also, I’ve found that even picky eaters will devour this dish. My youngest, who usually insists on plain pasta, actually asked for seconds. There’s something about the creamy tomato sauce mingling with tender chicken breasts in the Crockpot that feels like a warm hug after a long day.
Why This Recipe is Special
So, why is this slow cooker tomato basil chicken such a dinner hero? For one, it’s a total time-saver—just dump, stir, and let the magic happen. It’s perfect for busy families or anyone who wants to spend less time cooking and more time living. Plus, it fits right in with Chicken Crockpot Recipes Easy Healthy, which means you can feel good about serving it often. If you love simple, flavorful meals, you’ll probably want to check out my Pumpkin Butter Chicken Dinner Recipes and, for another creamy favorite, Creamy Crock Pot Ranch Chicken Dinner Recipes.
Finally, this dish works for any season, but it truly shines when you want dinner to feel special without any fuss. Whether it’s a rainy fall night or a crazy Wednesday in spring, slow cooker tomato basil chicken just makes everything a little easier and a whole lot tastier.
Ingredients breakdown
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Diced tomatoes with Italian herbs and juice | 1 can (14 oz or 398 ml) |
| Marinara sauce | 1 cup |
| Garlic, finely minced | 3 cloves |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried basil | ½ teaspoon |
| Pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
| Heavy whipping cream | ½ cup |
| Cornstarch | 2 tablespoons |
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 4 (about 2 lbs) |
| Fresh basil, finely chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | For serving |
Utensils and substitutions
First, you’ll want a trusty slow cooker for this slow cooker tomato basil chicken recipe. I use a 4- to 6-quart model, which fits the chicken and sauce perfectly. A whisk is handy for mixing the cream and cornstarch, while a sharp knife makes prepping garlic and basil a breeze. If you don’t have fresh basil, dried basil works in a pinch, though the flavor is a bit different.
Sometimes, I swap out heavy cream for half-and-half to lighten things up, especially when I’m on a kick for healthy eating. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat. For those hunting for more Crockpot Chicken Tomato Recipes, check out my favorite Crockpot Ranch Beef Pasta Shells Dinner Recipes and if you love Chicken Crockpot Recipes Easy Healthy, you might also like these Chicken Enchiladas Dinner Recipes. Remember, always check your chicken with a meat thermometer to be sure it’s cooked through. It’s a simple step that brings peace of mind, especially with dump-and-go slow cooker meals.
Step-by-step method for a slow cooker tomato basil chicken
Step 1
First, combine the diced tomatoes with their juice, marinara sauce, garlic, salt, Italian seasoning, dried basil, and pepper in a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker. Stir well to mix all the flavors together.
Step 2
Next, whisk together the heavy whipping cream and cornstarch in a small bowl until smooth. Add this creamy mixture to the slow cooker, stirring gently to blend it into the tomato base.
Step 3
Then, place the chicken breasts into the slow cooker, pressing them down into the sauce so they soak up all the tasty ingredients. Cover the cooker and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Tips and tricks to make this Dinner recipe shine
Also, stirring in fresh basil right after cooking brightens the flavors and adds a lovely aroma. For a richer finish, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over each serving just before eating. This slow cooker tomato basil chicken makes a comforting dinner that’s both easy and satisfying.
Furthermore, if you’re a fan of Crockpot Chicken Tomato Recipes or Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken, this recipe fits right in your rotation. You might also enjoy other Chicken Crockpot Recipes Easy Healthy like the Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Dinner Recipes or Gnocchi Zuppa Toscana Dinner Recipes for variety and flavor. Check them out for more delicious ideas to keep your weeknight dinners fresh and exciting!
What to serve with this Dinner recipe
First, pair your slow cooker tomato basil chicken with a fresh, crisp salad or roasted vegetables to balance the rich tomato and basil flavors. Also, warm crusty bread or garlic bread complements this dish wonderfully, soaking up the delicious sauce. For a heartier meal, consider serving it over creamy polenta or pasta. If you’re looking for more comforting dinner ideas, check out our Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup Dinner Recipes and Chicken Gnocchi Soup Dinner Recipes for inspiration.
How to store and reheat
Next, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm the chicken gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave to keep it tender and juicy. Also, add a splash of broth or water if the sauce thickens too much. For longer storage, freeze the dish in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well in this slow cooker tomato basil chicken recipe. They stay juicy and add extra flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be easily reheated, making it perfect for meal prep lunches or dinners.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
Definitely. Adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms can make the meal even more nutritious and colorful.
Do I need to brown the chicken before slow cooking?
No, browning is optional. The slow cooker will tenderize the chicken, but browning can add extra depth of flavor if you have time.
What can I serve instead of bread?
Try serving your tomato basil chicken over rice, quinoa, or spiralized vegetables for a low-carb option.
Print
slow cooker tomato basil chicken
- Total Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Healthy Dump And Go Crockpot Recipes
Description
A creamy and flavorful slow cooker dish featuring chicken breasts simmered in a tomato basil sauce with Italian herbs and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
1 can diced tomatoes with Italian herbs and juice (14 oz or 398 ml)
1 cup marinara sauce
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon dried basil
¼ teaspoon pepper
½ cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons cornstarch
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs)
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
1. Combine the diced tomatoes with their juice, marinara sauce, garlic, salt, Italian seasoning, dried basil, and pepper in a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker. Stir to mix well.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and cornstarch until smooth, then add this mixture to the slow cooker.
3. Place the chicken breasts into the slow cooker, pressing them down into the sauce.
4. Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken reads 165°F.
5. Once cooked, stir in the fresh basil, then taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the chicken topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter option.
Fresh basil can be substituted with extra dried basil if unavailable.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently to avoid curdling the cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3.5 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 590 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
Thanks for spending time with me in the kitchen today! I hope this slow cooker tomato basil chicken becomes a favorite in your home as it has in mine. It’s comforting, simple, and packed with flavors that warm you from the inside out. Remember, if you want to mix things up, our Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup Dinner Recipes and Chicken Gnocchi Soup Dinner Recipes offer more delicious options to try. Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for more cozy meal ideas and inspiration. Happy cooking and see you again soon!