This Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a family dinner. The tender chicken breasts are smothered in a rich, creamy tomato sauce, creating a delicious blend of flavors that everyone will enjoy.
The slow cooker does all the work for you, making this recipe a no-fuss meal that’s perfect for busy nights. The fresh basil garnish adds a burst of color and freshness, elevating the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness. Whether served with rice, pasta, or vegetables, this dish will be a hit at your dinner table.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Directions:
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
- Transfer the chicken breasts to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, heavy cream, basil, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Pour the tomato mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 4-5 hours | Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
If you’re in search of a delicious, simple, and comforting dinner, look no further than the Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breast. This recipe is ideal for busy weekdays, offering an easy-to-make meal that’s full of rich flavors, healthy ingredients, and a hearty, satisfying taste. With just a few basic ingredients and the magic of your slow cooker, you can prepare this delectable dish that will quickly become a family favorite.
Why This Recipe is a Game-Changer
The beauty of this slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken recipe lies in its simplicity and the convenience it provides. Using the slow cooker, all you need to do is prepare the ingredients, set it up, and let the machine work its magic. The chicken breast, when slow-cooked, turns incredibly tender and juicy, soaking up all the flavors from the creamy tomato sauce. The basil adds a fresh, aromatic note that brightens the dish and complements the richness of the cream and tomatoes perfectly.
This recipe is not only a time-saver but also a versatile dish that can be paired with a wide range of sides. From pasta and rice to vegetables or mashed potatoes, you have the freedom to serve it however you like, ensuring that it fits seamlessly into your meal plan. Whether you’re planning for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this dish is as simple as it gets.
The Health Benefits of This Dish
Besides being tasty and comforting, this Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breast recipe also offers several health benefits, particularly if you use lean chicken breasts and keep an eye on your portion sizes.
- Protein-Rich: Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function. It is low in fat but packed with nutrients that are vital for maintaining a healthy diet.
- Tomatoes for Nutrients: Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which helps combat free radicals in the body. Lycopene has been shown to support heart health and may reduce the risk of certain cancers. They also provide a good dose of vitamins A and C, both of which are essential for a healthy immune system.
- Basil for Health: Fresh basil is not only a fragrant herb that adds flavor, but it also contains anti-inflammatory properties and is a good source of vitamin K, magnesium, and calcium. It’s been linked to better digestion and overall wellness.
- Cream for a Rich Texture: The heavy cream in this recipe provides a deliciously rich texture, but you can make it lighter by substituting with half-and-half or even a dairy-free alternative if you want to make it more suitable for different dietary preferences.
- Slow Cooking for Nutrient Retention: One of the significant benefits of slow cooking is that the long, low heat helps retain nutrients, unlike some other cooking methods that may cause vitamins to be lost. The slow cooker also tenderizes the chicken, making it easier to absorb all the flavors from the ingredients.
Why This Recipe Is the Best Choice for Your Dinner Table
This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breast recipe is an all-around winner for anyone looking to make a satisfying, easy meal with minimal effort. The convenience of the slow cooker allows you to prepare a flavorful dish without needing to monitor it constantly. Simply throw the ingredients into the slow cooker, set the timer, and go about your day while the chicken simmers in a creamy, flavorful sauce.
Here are some reasons why this recipe stands out:
- Minimal Preparation: Unlike complicated recipes that require hours of preparation or advanced cooking techniques, this recipe is straightforward and simple. It’s perfect for novice cooks and those who are pressed for time. The most you’ll need to do is season the chicken, sear it for a few minutes, and let the slow cooker handle the rest.
- Affordable and Accessible Ingredients: Most of the ingredients for this dish are likely already in your pantry, making it an affordable and accessible meal to prepare. Chicken breasts, canned tomatoes, heavy cream, and basil are all common ingredients that won’t break the bank.
- Customizable: While the recipe as written is already packed with flavor, you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences. You can swap out the heavy cream for a dairy-free option, add extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms, or even spice things up with a dash of red pepper flakes for some heat. The versatility of this dish allows for endless variations depending on what you have on hand.
- Family-Friendly: This recipe is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. The creamy sauce paired with tender chicken makes it comforting and satisfying, while the subtle hint of basil and tomatoes adds depth to the flavor profile. Even picky eaters will enjoy the mild and delicious taste of this dish.
- Great for Meal Prep: Since the slow cooker does all the work, this recipe is also perfect for meal prepping. You can make a large batch and store the leftovers for future meals, saving time on busy days. This meal stays fresh in the fridge for several days and also freezes well, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal even when you’re pressed for time.
Tips for the Best Results
To get the most out of this recipe, here are a few tips to ensure the best results:
- Don’t Skip the Searing Step: While it may seem like an extra step, searing the chicken breasts before adding them to the slow cooker helps to lock in the juices and enhance the flavor. This step adds a rich, savory note to the dish that is worth the extra few minutes of effort.
- Use Fresh Basil: While dried basil can work in a pinch, fresh basil adds a vibrant, aromatic flavor that really elevates the dish. Make sure to sprinkle the fresh basil on top right before serving to give it a fresh burst of flavor.
- Control the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version of this dish, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or even try a dairy-free cream alternative like coconut milk. This will give you the same creamy texture without as much richness.
- Experiment with Sides: This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, try serving it with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad. You could also serve it with roasted vegetables for a low-carb alternative.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breast recipe is the perfect comfort food that checks all the boxes—easy to make, affordable, healthy, and incredibly flavorful. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick weeknight meal or someone who simply enjoys a delicious homemade dinner without the hassle, this recipe is for you. The rich, creamy sauce paired with tender chicken is sure to be a family favorite, and the slow cooking process makes it both convenient and hands-off.
So next time you’re looking for a fuss-free meal that doesn’t sacrifice taste, pull out your slow cooker and give this dish a try. You won’t be disappointed!