Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful meal that’s effortless to prepare, let me introduce you to my beloved Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich, velvety sauce bursting with tomato and fresh basil notes—you’ll want to come back to it again and again. Trust me, once you try this, slow cooker nights will never be the same!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

I’ve found that using quality yet simple ingredients really makes this slow cooker recipe sing. You’ll see how the fresh and dried herbs balance the creamy tomato base beautifully. Plus, cherry tomatoes add a nice little burst of flavor and texture if you can get fresh ones!

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (or Thighs): Thighs add extra moisture and flavor if you prefer dark meat, but breasts keep it lean.
• Heavy Cream: This is the secret to that dreamy, creamy texture in the sauce.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce so it clings to the chicken perfectly.
• Tomato Paste: Adds a concentrated tomato flavor and richness.
• Canned Diced Tomatoes: The base for the sauce—full of natural acidity and sweetness.
• Cherry Tomatoes: When fresh, they burst with sweetness; canned works in a pinch but I recommend fresh.
• Garlic: Brings an aromatic punch that complements the tomato and herbs perfectly.
• Dried Basil (or Fresh): Fresh basil gives a vibrant, grassy note, but dried works well too if that’s what you have.
• Dried Thyme: Adds an earthy, warm layer of flavor.
• Sea Salt: Season well to balance the richness of the cream and tomatoes.
• Black Pepper: A little heat helps brighten the dish.

Variations

I love how this recipe lends itself to little tweaks depending on what I have at home or for dietary preferences. Feel free to experiment—you’ll find it’s forgiving and still delicious even with your own twist.

• Using Chicken Thighs: I sometimes swap breasts for thighs, especially in colder months, because they stay moist and packed with flavor after slow cooking.
• Dairy-Free Variation: Try coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version—I’ve done it and it’s surprisingly tasty with a subtle twist.
• Adding Veggies: Throw in sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for extra texture and nutrition; the sauce still steals the show.
• Spicy Kick: If you like heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for subtle warmth.

How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Whisk the Cream and Cornstarch Together

Start by adding the heavy cream and cornstarch to your slow cooker. Whisk them thoroughly right there in the pot to avoid lumps later—this simple step makes all the difference for a silky, smooth sauce.

Step 2: Add Tomato Paste, Tomatoes, Garlic & Herbs

Next up, add the tomato paste, diced canned tomatoes, halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, dried basil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything gently so the flavors start to marry even before the cooking begins. I like to use a wooden spoon here to avoid scratching the slow cooker.

Step 3: Nestle in the Chicken

Place your chicken breasts (or thighs) right into that beautiful sauce and press them down just a bit so they’re fully covered. This helps the chicken absorb all those wonderful flavors during cooking.

Step 4: Slow Cook on Low or High

Pop on the lid and set your slow cooker to HIGH for 3 hours or LOW for 10 hours. Either way, you’re in for juicy chicken and a thick, creamy tomato basil sauce that’s out of this world. I usually choose low and slow when I prep in the morning for dinner.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle freshly chopped basil on top right before serving—it’s such a simple step but amplifies that fragrant herby brightness. Sometimes, a little shaved Parmesan or a drizzle of good olive oil brings it over the top.

Side Dishes

This creamy tomato basil chicken pairs wonderfully with garlic mashed potatoes or over a bed of fluffy rice so you can soak up every last bit of that luscious sauce. Roasted vegetables or even simple steamed green beans round out the meal nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

For special dinners, I love serving this in shallow bowls topped with fresh basil leaves and a little crusty bread on the side—great for dipping! Another fun twist I’ve tried is spooning it over creamy polenta instead of potatoes or rice for a silky-textured treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and they keep well for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so it’s a win-win when you want quick meals the next day.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this recipe a couple of times without any issues—just make sure it cools down completely first. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and it should last for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a covered skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce smooth. You might want to add a splash of cream or water if it feels too thick after refrigeration.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe feels like a little hug in a bowl—comforting, flavorful, and so easy to make. When I first tried it, I was amazed at how simple ingredients transformed into something that tasted restaurant-quality. Whether you’re a busy parent, a weeknight warrior, or just craving a cozy dinner, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen too. Give it a try—I promise you won’t regret it!

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