Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breast

You know that feeling when you come home after a long day, and all you want is a comforting, delicious meal waiting for you? That’s where my Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breast comes into play. This dish is like a warm hug in a bowl, rich and creamy with just the right amount of brightness from the fresh basil. I stumbled upon this recipe on a lazy Sunday afternoon and it quickly became a staple in our home—it’s one of those meals that feels fancy but is deceptively easy to put together.

Picture this: tender chicken breasts gently simmered in a dreamy, creamy tomato sauce, bursting with the aromatic goodness of fresh basil and garlic. And the best part? You pop it in the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day. Trust me, the kitchen will smell heavenly!

What makes this recipe special

Why should you make this dish tonight? For starters, it’s all about convenience. Cooking in a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it taste like you’ve been slaving away for hours. The creamy sauce is rich yet balanced, with a hint of tomato that bursts with flavor, bringing everything alive on your palate. Plus, it’s packed with protein and fresh ingredients. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, special occasions, or even meal prepping for the week. No judgment here—you deserve to treat yourself!

Gather these ingredients

Before you get cooking, let’s gather what you’ll need:

• 4 Chicken Breasts: Juicy and tender, these are the stars of the show. You can go skinless and boneless for simplicity, but if you want more flavor, bone-in works too!
• 1 Can (14.5 oz) Diced Tomatoes with Juice: This is the base of our sauce, bringing a tangy sweetness. Opt for a good quality brand—it makes a difference!
• 1 Cup Heavy Cream or Cream Cheese: Here’s where you decide how decadent you want it. Heavy cream gives it a luscious finish, while cream cheese provides a delightful tang if you’re feeling adventurous.
• 1 Cup Fresh Basil Leaves, Chopped: The freshness! Basil adds a fragrant note that makes everything pop. Feel free to use dried basil in a pinch, but fresh is always best.
• 2 Cloves Garlic, Minced: Garlic is the flavor enhancer that brings everything together. Mince it finely for maximum impact!
• Salt and Pepper to Taste: Never underestimate the power of seasoning to elevate your dish.
• Olive Oil (Optional): A drizzle can enhance the texture if you’re feeling fancy, but it’s not required.

Preparing Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breast

Ready to dive in? Here’s how you’ll make this dreamy dish:

1. Start with your slow cooker: place the chicken breasts at the bottom, making sure they’re settled nicely.
2. Pour in the can of diced tomatoes along with their juice. This is where the magic begins—a flavorful sauce that’s going to envelop that chicken.
3. Add the heavy cream or cream cheese. If using cream cheese, make sure you break it up a bit to help it blend with the tomatoes.
4. Sprinkle the minced garlic and chopped basil right over the top. Ah, that fragrant aroma is going to send you straight to heaven!
5. Season it generously with salt and pepper. Remember, you can always adjust later, but starting seasoned is key.
6. Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. No peeking! Let it do its thing!
7. Once done, shred the chicken right in the pot, stirring it into that glorious sauce. It’s time to mix flavors and textures!

Best way to enjoy it

Your dish is now ready to shine! I love serving the creamy tomato basil chicken over a bed of fluffy pasta or rice. It’s the perfect companion to soak up that rich sauce. And don’t forget some crusty bread for dipping—because who could resist? If you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of extra basil on top gives it a pop of color and freshness.

Storage and reheating tips

Oh, and if you have leftovers—lucky you! This dish keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze it for up to a month. Just make sure it cools down before tossing it in the freezer. When reheating, either microwave it gently or warm it up in a saucepan, adding a splash of cream for extra creaminess if it needs it!

Helpful cooking tips

Here are some pro tips for success: Don’t rush the cooking process—allowing those flavors to meld for the full duration is crucial for depth. If you’re feeling creative, you can add in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition. You can also switch up the basil for fresh parsley or cilantro if you’re in the mood for something different!

Creative Twists

Want to mix it up? Try these variations: If you love a little heat, toss in some red pepper flakes for a kick. For a Mediterranean twist, add olives and sun-dried tomatoes. You could even substitute the basil with a scoop of pesto just before serving for a wild flavor explosion!

Ingredients

• 4 Chicken Breasts
• 1 Can (14.5 oz) Diced Tomatoes with Juice
• 1 Cup Heavy Cream or Cream Cheese
• 1 Cup Fresh Basil Leaves, Chopped
• 2 Cloves Garlic, Minced
• Salt and Pepper to Taste
• Olive Oil (Optional)

Directions to follow

1. Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
2. Add diced tomatoes with juice.
3. Pour in heavy cream or cream cheese.
4. Add minced garlic and chopped basil.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
7. Shred the chicken and stir into the sauce.

Your questions answered

• Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes! Just add an hour to your cooking time if they’re still frozen.
• What if I don’t have heavy cream? No worries! Cream cheese will give you that same luscious texture. Just blend it well.
• Can I add vegetables to this dish? Definitely! Sliced bell peppers or zucchini would be great additions!
• Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free? Yes! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a creamy consistency without dairy.
• What’s the best way to serve this dish? Over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for dipping. All options are delicious!

So there you have it! Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breast is not just a meal; it’s a warm, hearty experience that brings people together. I hope you’ll give it a try, embrace your creativity in the kitchen, and perhaps share your own spin in the comments below. Let’s keep cooking and making memories together!

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