This creamy tomato basil chicken is a dream for busy days! Just throw everything in your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you relax.
The rich tomato sauce makes the chicken super juicy. I love serving it over pasta—a quick dinner that feels like a hug in a bowl! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish. You can substitute thighs for a richer flavor, or use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Just add it in the last hour to heat through without drying out.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes add great texture. If you don’t have canned ones, fresh tomatoes diced or crushed can work too. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly since fresh may soften quicker.
Tomato Soup: This gives a creamy base. If you’re avoiding processed foods, you can blend cooked fresh tomatoes with a bit of stock to mimic soup. Another option is using crushed tomatoes with a little added cream for a similar effect!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter alternative, try half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. However, the richness of heavy cream is hard to beat if you’re looking for the classic creamy texture.
Parmesan Cheese: While grated Parmesan enhances flavor, any hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) can work well too. Just remember, it adds saltiness!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Creaminess in the Sauce?
To get the perfect creamy texture, pay attention to the mixing step. After you add the heavy cream and cheese, ensure you stir the mixture well before pouring it over the chicken. This helps prevent any clumps and ensures a smooth sauce!
- Mix the sauce ingredients in a bowl until combined. This step is crucial for creaminess.
- Cooking on low heat for 4-6 hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken tender.
- Stirring the sauce before serving ensures it’s nicely blended and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste as the flavors develop during cooking.
With these tips, you’ll have a deliciously creamy sauce that’s perfect for draping over your choice of pasta or rice—enjoy!
Easy Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10 oz) can condensed tomato soup
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon dried basil (or 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil and extra Parmesan, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and then let your slow cooker do the work for about 4 to 6 hours. Perfect for a busy day when you want a hearty meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure to spread them out evenly so they are covered beautifully by the sauce!
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes (with all their juices), tomato soup, heavy cream, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, dried basil, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is mixed well and creamy.
3. Combine and Cook:
Pour that delicious tomato cream sauce over your chicken in the slow cooker, making sure the chicken is fully covered. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours. This is where the magic happens—let those flavors meld and the chicken become tender!
4. Final Touches:
When the cooking time is up, carefully open the slow cooker (watch out for steam!). Give the sauce a good stir to combine everything again, and taste it. Feel free to add a little more salt or pepper if needed.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy tomato basil chicken hot, topped with fresh chopped basil and a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese. It pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or some crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce. Enjoy your comforting meal!
This easy slow cooker dish will definitely become a favorite in your recipe arsenal! Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just be sure to increase the cooking time by about 1-2 hours, as frozen chicken takes longer to cook through. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or milk mixed with a tablespoon of starch (like cornstarch or flour) to thicken it. For a dairy-free version, coconut milk or almond milk can work, but the flavor will differ slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. Just add them during the last hour of cooking to keep their texture intact.
