There’s just something magical about coming home to the aroma of a slow-cooked meal, isn’t there? You walk through the door, and it feels like a warm hug from the kitchen! My favorite dish to whip up when I want a cozy, comforting dinner is this *slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken*. It’s a perfect blend of ease and rich, mouthwatering flavor. I remember the first time I made it; my family gathered around the table, and the smiles on their faces said it all. The creamy sauce paired with tender chicken and fresh basil was an instant hit! This dish has become a staple for our family dinners, and I just know it’ll find a special spot in your heart (and your belly) too!
Ingredients List
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped (trust me, fresh makes all the difference!)
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
How to Prepare Instructions
- First things first, grab your slow cooker and place the 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom. I like to arrange them in a single layer for even cooking.
- Next, add the can of diced tomatoes with their juicy goodness, along with the diced onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything nicely.
- Now, it’s time to set your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours—whichever fits your schedule best! Either way, the chicken will turn out tender and flavorful.
- About 30 minutes before it’s done cooking, stir in the heavy cream and chopped fresh basil. This is where the magic happens—trust me, the creamy sauce will make your heart sing!
- Once it’s finished, serve your delicious creation over a bed of pasta or rice to soak up all that wonderful sauce. Enjoy every creamy, comforting bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can set it and forget it while the slow cooker does all the work!
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy sauce, fresh basil, and juicy chicken creates a comforting dish that’s bursting with flavor.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and wholesome ingredients, this dish is a nutritious choice for family dinners.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over pasta, rice, or even with crusty bread to soak up that luscious sauce—your choice!
- Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a good creamy chicken dish, making it a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults alike!
Tips for Success
To make sure your *slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken* turns out perfectly every time, here are my go-to tips! First, don’t be shy about adjusting the seasoning to your taste. If you like it a bit spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes! Also, using fresh ingredients, especially the basil, really elevates the dish. If you can, grab some from your garden or a local market—they’re just bursting with flavor!
If you want a lighter version, feel free to swap the heavy cream for coconut milk; it adds a unique twist while keeping it creamy. And remember, you can toss in some veggies like spinach or bell peppers during the last hour of cooking for a pop of color and nutrition. Trust me, these little tweaks can make a big difference!
Variations
One of the best things about this *slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken* is how easy it is to make it your own! If you’re in the mood for a twist, why not add some colorful veggies? Toss in chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even a handful of baby spinach during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition and a pop of color!
Feeling adventurous? Try switching up the herbs! Instead of basil, you could use fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of thyme for a different flavor profile. And if you’re looking for a lighter option, swap the heavy cream for a creamy cashew sauce or plain Greek yogurt to keep that deliciousness but cut back on the calories. The possibilities are endless, so have fun experimenting and finding your favorite version!
Nutritional Information
Here’s some estimated nutritional information for your *slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken*. Each serving (about 1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Sugar: 3g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
Keep in mind, these values can vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes, but it gives you a great idea of what to expect. Enjoy this delicious meal guilt-free!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftovers of your *slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken* can be just as delightful as the first serving! To store, make sure to let the dish cool down a bit, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days—perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners later in the week.
When it comes time to reheat, I recommend using the stovetop for the best flavor. Just add the chicken and sauce to a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. You can also pop it in the microwave, but do it in short bursts to prevent overcooking; nobody wants dry chicken! If the sauce thickens too much, feel free to add a splash of water or extra cream to bring it back to life. Enjoy those comforting flavors all over again!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, you can! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly. If they’re frozen, it’s best to cook on high for about 4 hours to ensure they cook through.
What can I serve with this dish? This *slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken* is delicious over pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes. You could also serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Can I make this dish dairy-free? Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. It will still be creamy and delicious!
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or cream if needed.
Can I add more vegetables? Yes! Feel free to toss in any veggies you like—spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms work great. Just add them in during the last hour of cooking for the best texture!
Print
Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken for Cozy Nights
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken dish.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Add diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- Stir in heavy cream and basil during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Serve over pasta or rice.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Use fresh basil for better flavor.
- Can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken