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Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken

Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken
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Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered slowly in a rich tomato sauce infused with fresh basil and Italian herbs. This easy, hands-off recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, delivering juicy chicken with a bright, aromatic sauce that pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional for heat)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing until fragrant and translucent to unlock their full flavor and build a rich base for the sauce.
  2. Layer the Ingredients: Place the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour the sautéed garlic and onions over the chicken, then add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir gently to evenly distribute the ingredients around the chicken.
  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.
  4. Finish with Fresh Basil: About 10 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh basil leaves to infuse the dish with their bright, peppery flavor. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top to add an extra layer of richness.

Notes

  • Brown Chicken First: Searing the chicken breasts before slow cooking enhances flavor and texture but is optional.
  • Fresh Basil Last: Add basil at the end to preserve its vibrant color and aroma.
  • Don’t Overcook: Check the chicken for doneness to keep it juicy and avoid dryness.
  • Use Quality Tomatoes: High-quality canned tomatoes make the sauce richer and fresher tasting.
  • Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs before serving to suit your preference.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker chicken, tomato basil chicken, easy dinner, gluten free chicken recipe, slow cooker dinner

Find it online: https://juliaglam.com/slow-cooker-tomato-basil-chicken/