Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

This creamy tomato basil chicken transforms humble ingredients into a luxurious comfort meal with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work while you go about your day, returning home to tantalizing aromas and a dinner that tastes like it took hours of hands-on preparation.

I discovered this recipe during a particularly hectic season when my family needed nourishing meals but I had precious little time to cook. Now it appears on our table at least twice a month because everyone cleans their plate without complaint.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: provides the protein foundation choose organic if possible for best flavor
• Crushed tomatoes: creates the rich base look for San Marzano variety for natural sweetness
• Heavy cream: transforms the sauce into something luxurious substitute coconut cream for dairy free option
• Medium onion and garlic: builds aromatic foundation fresh is non negotiable here
• Dried basil and oregano: infuses with Italian flavors throughout the slow cooking process
• Fresh basil for garnish: adds bright color and fragrant finish worth the splurge

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients:

Chop your onion into small uniform pieces and mince garlic finely. Having everything ready before you begin makes assembly seamless and ensures even cooking throughout.

Layer the Base:

Place chicken breasts in a single layer across the bottom of your slow cooker. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. This initial seasoning is crucial as it permeates the meat during the long cooking process.

Create the Aromatic Layer:

Distribute the diced onions and minced garlic evenly over the chicken. These aromatic vegetables will cook down and infuse the entire dish with savory depth. Make sure they cover the chicken completely to ensure even flavor distribution.

Add the Tomato Foundation:

Pour the entire can of crushed tomatoes over the aromatics and chicken. Use a spatula to spread evenly if necessary. The tomatoes will break down during cooking creating a silky texture and rich flavor profile.

Season Thoughtfully:

Sprinkle dried herbs evenly across the surface. Rub them gently between your palms before adding to release their essential oils and maximize flavor. Make sure they integrate with the tomato layer rather than sitting on top.

Slow Cook to Perfection:

Cover and set your slow cooker to the appropriate time based on your schedule. The longer cooking time on low heat yields more tender results but both methods produce delicious outcomes. Resist the urge to lift the lid during cooking as this releases accumulated heat and moisture.

Finish with Cream:

Once chicken is fall apart tender stir in the cream completely incorporating it through the sauce. Allow it to simmer uncovered which concentrates flavors and creates the perfect consistency neither too watery nor too thick.

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The crushed tomatoes are truly the heart of this dish. I discovered that using fire roasted varieties adds an unexpected smoky dimension that elevates the entire recipe. My mother in law actually requested this for her birthday dinner last year which is the ultimate compliment from someone who rarely eats anything she hasn't cooked herself.

Make It Dairy Free

This recipe adapts beautifully for those avoiding dairy. Simply substitute the heavy cream with full fat coconut milk or coconut cream. The natural sweetness of coconut complements the acidity of the tomatoes creating a balanced flavor profile that some guests actually prefer to the original. Just ensure you use unsweetened coconut cream without additives for the best consistency and flavor results.

Serving Suggestions

While pasta is the traditional pairing for this saucy chicken dish consider alternatives for variety. Creamy polenta creates an incredible base that soaks up the sauce beautifully. For a lighter option zucchini noodles provide texture without heaviness. My personal favorite way to serve this is over buttery cauliflower mash with plenty of fresh basil and a light dusting of parmesan cheese on top.

Storage Tips

This dish keeps exceptionally well in the refrigerator for up to four days making it perfect for meal prep. Store in glass containers rather than plastic to prevent staining and retain freshness. When reheating add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce as it thickens considerably when chilled. For freezing portion into individual servings and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating on the stovetop.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use fresh basil instead of dried?

Yes, you can substitute dried basil with fresh basil. Use approximately 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh basil for each teaspoon of dried basil.

→ Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, you can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream to make this dish dairy-free without compromising on flavor.

→ What can I serve alongside this dish?

This dish pairs wonderfully with cooked pasta, rice, or a side of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover creamy tomato basil chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. They will remain tender during slow cooking and add a richer flavor to the dish.