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Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
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Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender, juicy chicken with a rich, velvety tomato cream sauce brightened by fresh basil. This easy, hands-off recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, providing a delicious balance of tangy tomatoes, creamy sauce, and aromatic herbs with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (fresh or thawed)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season evenly with salt, pepper, and a touch of Italian seasoning to infuse the meat with flavor.
  2. Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Evenly spoon the diced tomatoes and minced garlic over the chicken, ensuring it is coated with the tomato mixture.
  3. Cook on Low: Set your slow cooker to low heat and cook for 4 to 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
  4. Stir in Cream and Basil: About 30 minutes before serving, gently stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil leaves. This timing preserves the creaminess and fresh aroma of the basil.
  5. Final Touches: Stir the sauce gently to combine all the flavors. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed, then let the slow cooker cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to slightly thicken the sauce and develop a creamy finish.

Notes

  • Use fresh basil and quality tomatoes for the best flavor and aroma.
  • Add cream late in the cooking process to prevent curdling and maintain a smooth sauce texture.
  • Use chicken breasts of even thickness to ensure uniform cooking and tenderness.
  • Cook on low heat for best texture and flavor without drying out the chicken.
  • Stir gently to keep the chicken whole and preserve the creamy consistency of the sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker chicken, creamy tomato basil chicken, easy chicken dinner, comfort food, slow cooker recipes, one-pot chicken meals

Find it online: https://jamescookes.com/slow-cooker-creamy-tomato-basil-chicken/