This Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken Breasts dish is all about comfort and flavor! Juicy chicken, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil come together to create a delightful meal.
Cooking in a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it. I love coming home to that mouthwatering smell! Serve it over rice or pasta, and you’ve got dinner sorted with ease!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they become tender in the slow cooker. You can substitute them with thighs for a richer flavor or use tofu for a vegetarian option.
Crushed Tomatoes: The crushed tomatoes bring a luscious texture to the sauce. If fresh tomatoes are in season, feel free to chop up about 4-5 medium-sized ones instead. Canned diced tomatoes also work but might need extra seasoning.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, or for a dairy-free choice, coconut milk is a good alternative.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil gives a bright flavor to the dish. If you can’t find it, dried basil can work too, but use just 1-2 teaspoons as it’s more concentrated.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds depth to the sauce. Pecorino Romano is a good substitute if you’re looking for a stronger taste. Nutritional yeast can replace cheese for a vegan version.
How Do You Make Sure the Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
Cooking chicken in a slow cooker is simple, but you want to ensure it stays juicy. The key is to not overcook it. Follow these steps:
- Place the chicken breasts flat in the slow cooker; they should have some space around them for heat circulation.
- Cover the chicken completely with your sauce mixture, which infuses moisture and flavor.
- Set the slow cooker on low and let it gently simmer. Check around the 4-hour mark. If the chicken shreds easily, it’s done!
- Avoid opening the lid too frequently, as this releases heat and increases cooking time.
In my experience, letting the chicken cook low and slow gives the best results. Trust the process, and you’ll have a tender chicken bursting with flavor!
Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken Breasts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb spaghetti or pasta of choice
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking pasta)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes for prep, with a cooking time of 4-6 hours in the slow cooker. You’ll also need about 20-30 minutes to cook the pasta just before serving. So, set aside a total of around 4-7 hours depending on your slow cooker’s cooking time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Lay them flat so they cook evenly.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix together the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. This will create a creamy, flavorful sauce. Once mixed, pour this delicious sauce over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
3. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set it to low and cook for 4-6 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is fully cooked and tender. It should shred easily with a fork.
4. Cook the Pasta:
About 20-30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain it and toss it with olive oil to keep it from sticking together.
5. Combine and Serve:
When the chicken is done, carefully shred it right inside the slow cooker using two forks. Stir the shredded chicken into the creamy sauce until well combined. Serve this mixture over a generous helping of cooked spaghetti.
6. Garnish:
Top each serving with extra chopped basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you like. This adds a nice touch and enhances the flavor!
Enjoy your flavorful slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts on a bed of pasta!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure to cook them for an additional hour in the slow cooker. Ensure they are properly thawed if you’d prefer to reduce the cooking time. If using frozen, the dish may take longer to reach the safe temperature. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter (1 cup of milk mixed with 2 tablespoons of melted butter for a rich texture). For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream or a nut-based cream, but be aware that taste may vary slightly.
How to Store Leftover Tomato Basil Chicken?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth to maintain moisture if needed. Be sure to stir and heat until it’s thoroughly warmed through.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking for a nutritious boost. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and toss them in with the chicken and sauce. This will enhance the flavor and nutrition of your meal!
