Save This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is incredibly easy and flavorful and is a go-to for busy nights when I want something cozy with minimal effort. It fills the kitchen with a fragrant Italian aroma and the chicken stays melt-in-your-mouth tender while soaking up all those rich creamy tomato flavors. This recipe comes together fast and makes everyone at the table happy.
I discovered this on a day when my to-do list was huge and my time was short. Thirty minutes later my house was filled with the scent of basil and tomatoes and everyone raved at dinner. Now we make it on repeat.
Ingredients
- Diced tomatoes with Italian herbs: brings a robust sweet base and adds chunkiness Use cans with no signs of dents for best quality
- Tomato pasta sauce: gives depth and thickens the sauce An Italian-style or marinara sauce with basil or oregano brightens the flavors
- Minced garlic: enhances the sauce with sharp savory notes Use plump fresh cloves or quality jarred garlic
- Salt: ensures the sauce is perfectly seasoned Always use a fresh batch for a clean taste
- Italian seasoning and dried basil: bring herby complexity Opt for blends with rosemary oregano and thyme
- Black pepper: adds subtle heat and brightness Fresh cracked is best for punch
- Evaporated milk or heavy cream: makes the sauce ultra creamy and smooth Both are stable under slow heat and will not curdle
- Corn starch: thickens the sauce to a luxurious consistency Make sure there are no lumps when mixing
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: absorb all the flavors and stay juicy Choose chicken that looks firm and has little to no visible fat
- Fresh basil: stirred in at the end for vibrant color and freshness Pick deep green bunches without bruises for maximum aroma
Instructions
- Combine Sauce Ingredients:
- Add diced tomatoes tomato pasta sauce minced garlic salt Italian seasoning dried basil and black pepper to your slow cooker Stir thoroughly to evenly distribute all seasonings and ensure the sauce is well mixed
- Prepare Cream Mixture:
- Whisk together evaporated milk or heavy cream with corn starch in a small bowl until the mixture becomes silky smooth This will help prevent any lumps in your final sauce
- Add Cream and Chicken:
- Pour the cream and corn starch mixture into the slow cooker Stir until fully combined Gently nestle the chicken breasts into the sauce Press them down so they are mostly covered by the liquid for even cooking
- Cook to Perfection:
- Cover and cook on low for about four hours or until the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit on a meat thermometer The timing may vary depending on your slow cooker model The chicken should be tender and easily shredded
- Add Fresh Basil and Serve:
- Just before serving stir in the finely chopped fresh basil for an herbaceous lift Serve the creamy tomato basil chicken over your choice of pasta rice or enjoy with a side salad or vegetables
Save There is something so satisfying about freshly chopped basil stirred in at the end watching it wilt into the creamy sauce. One time my daughter helped me sprinkle it in and she said it smelled like summer now it is our little ritual.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer keeping let the chicken and sauce cool to room temperature then freeze in single serve portions. To reheat thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm gently in a saucepan or microwave until steaming.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have evaporated milk heavy cream works beautifully. For a dairy free version try canned coconut milk for a slight tropical flavor twist. Boneless skinless chicken thighs can be swapped in for extra juicy results and if fresh basil is not available stir in a spoonful of basil pesto instead.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken pairs well with almost any starch whether twirled into pasta piled over fluffy white rice or served alongside roasted vegetables for a lighter option. I also love adding a simple green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette on the side.
Cultural and Historical Context
Tomato basil sauces are a classic in Italian-inspired American cooking bringing the garden flavors of summer indoors all year round. The combination of juicy tomatoes creamy sauce and fragrant herbs is rooted in Mediterranean comfort food traditions now adapted for easy modern slow cooker meals.
Seasonal Adaptations
Opt for fresh garden tomatoes and basil in the summer months In winter canned tomatoes and hearty pastas make for cozy comfort meals Stir in spinach or roasted red peppers for an extra boost of flavor and color
Success Stories
A busy friend told me this recipe was a game changer for her worknight meals her kids cleaned their plates which is a rare event in her house. My neighbor once made this for a potluck and everyone begged for the recipe.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Assemble all the sauce ingredients with raw chicken in a freezer bag. Label with the date and freeze flat. When ready to cook thaw overnight then empty into the slow cooker. Add cream and corn starch mixture just before cooking.
Save This cozy dish takes hardly any effort but delivers maximum comfort. Enjoy it all year as a reliable crowd pleaser!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and result in a richer flavor and tender texture.
- → What if I don't have fresh basil?
Substitute with basil pesto or use extra dried basil for a similar herbal note.
- → Is heavy cream necessary?
Heavy cream or evaporated milk is ideal for richness and to prevent curdling in the sauce.
- → How can I make the sauce smoother?
Replace diced tomatoes with more tomato sauce for a silkier consistency in your dish.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Pasta, rice, salad, or steamed vegetables all complement the creamy tomato basil chicken.
- → Is the dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all packaged ingredients are gluten-free and it is served with gluten-free sides.