When I made this Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken for the first time, I immediately knew it was going to be a regular in my kitchen. The combination of tender, flavorful chicken simmered in a rich, creamy tomato and basil sauce is the comfort food I didn’t know I needed.

What I love most about it? You can set it, forget it, and come back hours later to a perfectly cooked dish. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week, this recipe never disappoints.

slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken recipe

Credit: thepeasantsdaughter

Ingredients

To create this delicious dish, you’ll need a handful of simple, flavorful ingredients that complement each other beautifully:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
(Chicken thighs add extra flavor and moisture. If using breasts, consider pounding them to even thickness.)
1 cup heavy cream
(For a smooth and rich sauce, use high-quality cream.)
14 oz canned diced tomatoes
(Choose fire-roasted tomatoes for an extra smoky depth.)
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
(Fresh tomatoes add bursts of flavor. You can substitute with more canned tomatoes if needed.)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
(This concentrates the tomato flavor.)
5 garlic cloves, minced
(Fresh garlic brings out deeper and more aromatic flavors.)
1 teaspoon dried basil or ½ cup chopped fresh basil
(Fresh basil is ideal for garnish, but dried basil works well during cooking.)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
(Blends seamlessly with the basil, creating a balanced herb flavor.)
2 tablespoons cornstarch
(Optional, but it helps thicken the sauce.)
1 teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

Note: This recipe makes 4 servings. Adjust ingredient quantities for larger groups.

Variations

Make this recipe just the way you like it! Here are some variations to consider:

Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a slightly sweet twist.
Low-Carb: Skip the cornstarch and use a thickener like xanthan gum if desired.
Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.
Extra Veggies: Throw in spinach, kale, or even bell peppers during the last hour of cooking for added nutrients.
Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the sauce for a subtle kick.

You might also enjoy trying Crockpot Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Orzo as a fun side dish to complement this meal.

Cooking Time

Here’s how long you’ll need to prepare and cook this creamy chicken dish:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 3 hours on high or 10 hours on low
Total Time: Up to 10 hours and 15 minutes

Equipment You Need

Gather these tools to make cooking and cleanup effortless:

Slow cooker: Essential for slow, consistent cooking.
Whisk: For blending the cream and cornstarch smoothly.
Cutting board and knife: To prep the chicken and cherry tomatoes.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring in ingredients.

How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken?

This recipe is simple and straightforward. Here’s how to turn your ingredients into a masterpiece:

Combine the Cream and Cornstarch

Start by whisking the heavy cream and cornstarch in your slow cooker. This combination ensures the sauce thickens to the perfect creamy consistency.

Add Tomato Ingredients and Herbs

Next, mix in the tomato paste, canned diced tomatoes (drain excess liquid), cherry tomatoes, garlic, dried basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to allow the flavors to blend evenly.

Submerge the Chicken

Place your chicken breasts or thighs into the sauce. Press them down so they’re fully covered, which ensures even cooking and flavor infusion.

Cook Low and Slow

Set your slow cooker to high for 3 hours or low for 10 hours. Resist the urge to lift the lid during cooking, as this lets heat escape and delays the process.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the chicken is tender and the sauce is rich and aromatic, it’s ready to serve. Garnish with fresh basil for a bright, herbal touch.

Credit: thereciperebel

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

Here are some little tricks I’ve discovered while making this dish multiple times:

Marinate the Chicken: If you have extra time, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and basil overnight. It takes the flavor up a notch.
Use Fresh Basil Wisely: Add fresh basil only at the end to maintain its vibrant flavor.
Don’t Skip the Whisking: Make sure cream and cornstarch are well-combined before adding to the slow cooker. It prevents lumps.
Double the Sauce: Love extra sauce for dipping bread or pouring over pasta? Double the tomato and cream mixture!
Finish with Parmesan: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan over the top for a cheesy, salty touch.

You can also enjoy similar hearty dishes like the Cajun Steak with Apricot Orange Glaze for a flavorful twist.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken?

Presentation is key when serving this hearty dish. Pair it with simple yet satisfying sides like:

Pasta: Toss the chicken and sauce with cooked spaghetti, linguine, or penne for a classic pairing.
Mashed Potatoes: Spoon the creamy sauce over fluffy mashed potatoes for pure comfort.
Rice or Risotto: Both options soak up the sauce beautifully.
Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted asparagus or a crisp garden salad for a lighter option.

Top each plate with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for a restaurant-quality finish.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a summary of the nutritional profile per serving:

Calories: 413
Protein: 29g
Carbohydrates: 21g
Fat: 25g

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is perfect for prepping and storing! Here’s how to do it:

Make Ahead: Prepare the cream and tomato mixture the night before and refrigerate. Add the chicken and start cooking in the morning.
Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. The sauce may separate slightly when reheated but will still taste delicious.
Reheating: Heat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to restore the sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

There are so many reasons this dish will become a staple in your home, but here are the highlights:

Effortless Preparation: The slow cooker does all the work while you go about your day.
Versatile Pairings: It complements everything from pasta to hearty vegetables.
Family-Friendly Flavor: The creamy tomato basil sauce is a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Easy to prep in advance for a no-stress meal.
Customizable: Works with various proteins, herbs, and add-ins to suit your preferences.

This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken recipe is a surefire way to fill your home with the aromas of comfort and your plate with deliciousness. Whether you’re hosting guests, planning a family dinner, or meal-prepping for the week, this versatile recipe has you covered. Start the slow cooker, sit back, and enjoy a meal that truly cooks itself!

For more inspiration, check out these Chicken Recipes that are equally delicious and easy to make.

Ash Tyrrell