Description
Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breast is the perfect dish for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal. With tender chicken breasts slow-cooked in a rich and creamy tomato sauce, this dish is bursting with flavors of fresh basil, garlic, and a hint of tangy tomato. Whether you’re serving it over pasta, rice, or with a side of bread to soak up the creamy sauce, this dish is a comforting and satisfying meal that requires minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Gather these ingredients to make your Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breast:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken and Sauce:
- Sear the Chicken (Optional): In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts on both sides for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped if you prefer a simpler method.
- Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: In the slow cooker, combine the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, heavy cream, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
- Add the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts into the slow cooker, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.
Finish the Dish:
- Shred the Chicken: After 6 hours, remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces or leave the breasts whole if you prefer.
- Add Fresh Basil and Parmesan: Stir in the fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce. If you like a tangy note, add a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar at this point. Mix well.
- Return Chicken to Sauce: Place the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker and stir to combine with the sauce. Let it sit for an additional 10-15 minutes to heat through and absorb the flavors.
Serve:
- Serve and Garnish: Spoon the creamy tomato basil chicken over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 400-450 kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 40g