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Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken cooked slowly in a rich tomato and basil-infused creamy sauce. Easy to prepare, it’s perfect for cozy dinners or easy weeknight meals with classic Italian flavors and the convenience of a slow cooker.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Vegetables & Herbs

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped

Canned Goods

  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes

Dairy & Oils

  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and roughly chop the fresh basil leaves to have everything ready for layering in the slow cooker.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. This deepens the flavor base before adding to the slow cooker.
  3. Layer and Cook: Place the seasoned chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the diced tomatoes and the sautéed onion and garlic over the top. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning and gently stir just to combine the ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
  4. Add Cream and Basil: About 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, stir in the heavy cream and chopped fresh basil. This allows the cream to blend without curdling and keeps the basil fresh and vibrant.
  5. Finish with Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top and let it melt into the sauce while the slow cooker remains on warm. Stir gently to combine evenly and serve hot.

Notes

  • Use chicken pieces of similar size for even cooking.
  • Add fresh basil late in the cooking process to preserve its bright flavor.
  • Substitute half-and-half for a lighter but thinner sauce.
  • Check chicken doneness at 4 hours to avoid overcooking.
  • Place heavier ingredients like chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker for consistent heat exposure.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker chicken, creamy tomato basil chicken, easy dinner, slow cooker recipes, Italian chicken, comfort food, one pot meal