Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken

If you’re searching for a comforting, flavorful, and hassle-free meal, this Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken recipe will quickly become your go-to. Tender chicken slowly simmered with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a perfect blend of seasonings makes every bite a delight. This recipe is designed to make weeknight dinners simpler while delivering rich, juicy flavors that feel special without any extra work. Whether you’re a slow cooker novice or a seasoned pro, this dish offers a perfect balance of ease and taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Just layer your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and walk away to enjoy stress-free meal prep.
• Juicy, Tender Chicken: Slow cooking locks in moisture, creating perfectly tender chicken that melts in your mouth.
• Fresh, Bright Flavors: The combination of tomato and basil creates a vibrant, aromatic sauce full of depth and freshness.
• Family Friendly: This dish is simple and pleasing to many palates, making it perfect for dinner with kids or guests.
• Versatile Meal: Great served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce — customize it your way!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays a vital role in building the flavors and textures that make this Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken so irresistible. From juicy tomatoes to fragrant basil, these essentials come together with just a few pantry staples.

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The main protein, which becomes tender and juicy after slow cooking.
• Canned Crushed Tomatoes: Provides a rich and tangy base for the sauce.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Adds a sweet, peppery, and refreshing flavor not achieved with dried herbs.
• Garlic Cloves: Minced for a warm, savory foundation that complements the tomato’s acidity.
• Onion: Diced onions build savory depth and sweetness when slow-cooked.
• Olive Oil: Used to sauté the garlic and onions, enhancing their flavors before slow cooking.
• Dried Oregano and Thyme: Classic Italian herbs that elevate the sauce’s complexity.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For a subtle hint of heat if you like a little spice.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional): To sprinkle on top before serving for added umami richness.

Variations for Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, making it easy to tailor to your dietary preferences or simply switch things up to keep dinner exciting.

• Use Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for even more tender and flavorful results.
• Add Vegetables: Toss in zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to boost nutrition and texture.
• Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk toward the end for a luscious sauce.
• Spicy Twist: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne for a bolder kick.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to keep it light and keto-friendly.

How to Make Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics

Begin by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and diced onions, sautéing them until fragrant and translucent. This step unlocks their full flavor, creating a rich foundation for your sauce.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

In your slow cooker, place the chicken breasts in a single layer. Pour the sautéed garlic and onions over the chicken, then add canned crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine everything evenly around the chicken.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked. During this time, the tomatoes and herbs meld together into a savory, aromatic sauce.

Step 4: Finish with Fresh Basil

About 10 minutes before serving, stir in fresh basil leaves to infuse the dish with their signature bright, peppery notes. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken

• Brown Chicken First: Searing the chicken breasts before adding them enhances flavor and texture but isn’t mandatory.
• Fresh Basil Last: Adding basil toward the end preserves its vibrant color and aroma.
• Don’t Overcook: Check for doneness to keep the chicken juicy instead of dry.
• Use Quality Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes for a richer, fresher sauce.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs just before serving to suit your palate.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, or even a drizzle of good olive oil elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise, giving each serving a polished finish.

Side Dishes

Serve this chicken over warm pasta, creamy polenta, or fluffy rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad make wonderful, balanced accompaniments.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stuffing the tomato basil chicken into warm pita or flatbreads as a handheld meal, or use it as a topping for baked potatoes or bruschetta for an innovative twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days, allowing flavors to deepen even more.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. Store cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a covered skillet or microwave to preserve moisture. Adding a splash of water or broth helps maintain the saucy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts directly in the slow cooker, but it may add extra cooking time to ensure they cook through safely.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. All ingredients in the Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken are naturally gluten-free, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can adapt the recipe for an Instant Pot using the slow cook function or by sautéing first and then pressure cooking for about 10 minutes, followed by a natural release.

What can I substitute for fresh basil if I don’t have any?

If fresh basil isn’t available, dried basil can be used, though it’s best added at the start of cooking to develop its flavor.

How spicy is this recipe?

This recipe is mild by default, but you can increase the red pepper flakes for extra heat according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

Give this Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken a try for a no-fuss, delicious dinner that feels homemade and indulgent. It’s the kind of dish that brings warmth to your table and simplifies your evening routine. So grab your slow cooker, gather the ingredients, and prepare to enjoy a meal that’s as easy as it is unforgettable.

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