Introduction to Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken

When juggling a busy professional life, dinner should be a stress-free experience, right? Enter the slow cooker, your new best friend in the kitchen. Slow cooking is a true game-changer: it allows you to combine flavorful ingredients in one pot and forget about it until dinner time. Imagine leaving your house in the morning, and returning to the warm, aromatic embrace of a delicious meal. For those short on time, but big on flavor, our Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken recipe is the perfect solution.

Why does slow cooking stand out? According to the National Chicken Council, slow cooking retains nutrients better and enhances flavor through longer cooking times. This means your chicken will be juicy and tender, bathed in rich, savory tomato goodness. Plus, with little to no hands-on time required, you can catch up on work or enjoy some downtime while your meal cooks.

So, whether you’re exhausted from a long day, or just looking for a simple yet satisfying dinner, this easy recipe will not disappoint. Ready to embrace the magic of slow cooking? Let’s dive into how to whip up this delightful dish!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken

When it comes to preparing the slow cooker tomato basil chicken, simplicity is key without sacrificing flavor. You may already have many of these ingredients in your pantry, making it even easier to whip up this delicious meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

5 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Lean and tender, chicken breasts form the heart of this dish.
1 Can Diced Tomatoes (14 oz): Opt for those packed in juice for added flavor.
1 Can Tomato Sauce (8 oz): This gives the dish a rich, comforting base.
2 teaspoon Minced Garlic: Freshly minced will elevate the dish, but jarred can save time.
2 teaspoon Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings out an authentic Italian flavor.
1 teaspoon Salt: Essential for enhancing the taste.
½ teaspoon Black Pepper: Just the right amount for a hint of spice.
1 cup Heavy Cream: Adding richness to the sauce that makes this dish a true comfort food.
1 tablespoon Corn Starch: A thickening agent to achieve the perfect consistency.
2 tablespoon Fresh Basil (finely chopped): Adds a refreshing, vibrant finish to your meal.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re on your way to a delightful culinary experience that will undoubtedly impress! Want to keep this handy? Just enter your email to receive this and other fantastic recipes straight to your inbox!

Preparing Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken

Slow cooker meals are the hallmark of convenience in the kitchen, and slow cooker tomato basil chicken is a perfect example. With minimal prep time and a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and hearty dish that will impress your friends and family. Here’s how to prepare this delightful meal step-by-step.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking process, it's essential to have all your ingredients ready. For this recipe, you’ll need:

5 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
2 teaspoons minced garlic
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped

Having everything on hand ensures a smooth cooking experience. Plus, you can find most of these ingredients at your local grocery store—just check the organic aisle for the tomatoes and sauces!

Prepare the Chicken and Sauce

Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. These will serve as the foundation of your dish. Next, add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Imagine the wonderful aroma wafting through your kitchen as these flavors meld together!

For some extra flair, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth. This creates a flavorful sauce that will have your guests coming back for seconds.

Load the Slow Cooker

Once your chicken and sauce are ready, it’s time to load everything into the slow cooker. Just pour the mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they’re well covered. Make sure the lid is snug, which will help retain moisture and flavor.

Did you know that using a slow cooker can save you a significant amount of time in meal prep? It's true! With this method, you can simply set your slow cooker and forget about it for a few hours.

Cooking Time and Settings

For the slow cooker tomato basil chicken, you have two options: cook on low for about 4-6 hours or on high for about 3 hours. Depending on your schedule, either option works well. Just remember, cooking on low allows for a more tender finish, while high will save you some time if you're in a pinch.

Finishing Touches with Cream and Basil

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, combine the cornstarch with the heavy cream in a small bowl. This will give your sauce a rich, creamy texture. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker and let it cook for those final moments. When you're ready to serve, stir in the freshly chopped basil. This adds a vibrant pop of color and flavor that really elevates the dish.

Serve your slow cooker tomato basil chicken over pasta or rice for a satisfying meal. Not only will this dish satisfy your taste buds, but it's also an easy, one-pot wonder that makes cleanup a breeze! Enjoy!

Variations on Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken

Creamy Spinach Twist

For a delightful twist on slow cooker tomato basil chicken, consider adding spinach for a nutrient boost! Simply toss in a few handfuls of fresh spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking. The spinach wilts perfectly, adding vibrant color and a rich flavor. This variation not only enhances the visual appeal but also incorporates an extra serving of veggies into your meal—talk about a win-win! You could also substitute some heavy cream with cream cheese for a thicker, creamier sauce.

Protein Substitutes: Turkey or Beef

Not in the mood for chicken? No problem! This recipe is super versatile; feel free to swap in turkey or even beef. Ground turkey blends seamlessly with the tomato and basil, creating a lighter dish, while beef yields a hearty variation. Just adjust the cooking time slightly for different proteins—ground turkey might cook a bit faster! Check out Beef Its What's for Dinner for more tips on working with beef. Enjoy experimenting!

Cooking tips for Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken

Why high and low settings matter

When making slow cooker tomato basil chicken, the cooking temperature plays a crucial role in flavor and texture. Cooking on low for 4-6 hours allows the chicken to tenderize beautifully, absorbing all the rich tomato and basil flavors. On the other hand, the high setting cooks the dish faster in about 3 hours, which is great for a quicker meal without sacrificing too much flavor.

How to avoid overcooking

To prevent overcooking, it’s best to check your slow cooker during the last hour. Chicken can become dry if left too long, especially on the high setting. For a foolproof approach, always use a meat thermometer—chicken is perfectly done at an internal temperature of 165°F. This simple tip ensures a juicy, tender dish every time!

For more slowing cooking inspiration, check out these helpful slow cooking tips.

Serving suggestions for Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken

When it comes to your slow cooker tomato basil chicken, the right side dishes can really elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic ways to serve it up!

Complementary sides: pasta, rice, or bread

You can't go wrong with classic pairings. Serve this luscious chicken over pasta for a hearty Italian flair, or nestle it on a bed of fluffy rice to soak up all the flavor. Feeling like a cozy night? Grab a loaf of crusty bread to dip into that delicious sauce.

Garnishing ideas that elevate the dish

A simple garnish can turn an everyday meal into something special! Consider topping your dish with additional fresh basil for a burst of color and flavor. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese also adds a delightful depth. For a zesty twist, drizzle a little balsamic reduction over the top just before serving—your taste buds will thank you!

Serve up your slow cooker tomato basil chicken with love and watch your friends and family savor every bite!

Time Breakdown for Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken

Preparation Time

Getting started on your slow cooker tomato basil chicken is a breeze! You’ll need about 10 minutes to gather and prep your ingredients. Just chop some basil, measure out your seasonings, and you’re almost all set.

Cooking Time

The real magic happens while you sit back and relax. Pop that slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours or high for 3 hours. Either way, your kitchen will soon smell delicious!

Total Time

From prep to plate, you’re looking at a total of around 4-6 hours and 10 minutes for the entire process. That means you can start this meal during your workday and return home to a comforting, home-cooked dinner. Easy, right?

Nutritional Facts for Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken

When you whip up this delicious slow cooker tomato basil chicken, you'll want to know what wholesome nourishment you're serving up. Here's a quick breakdown:

Calories: 273 kcal per serving, making it a satisfying yet light option.
Protein: A hearty 22g of protein from the chicken, perfect for fueling your day!
Sodium: Contains 805mg of sodium, so it’s a good idea to watch your intake if you’re monitoring your salt consumption.

This dish not only tastes great but also provides balanced nutrition, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. Check out more about the benefits of these ingredients here.

FAQs about Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken

Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts for this slow cooker tomato basil chicken. Just be aware that cooking times might need a bit of adjustment. When using frozen chicken, it’s best to cook on low for 6-8 hours to ensure everything is fully cooked and tender.

How do I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, let them cool completely and then transfer them to an airtight container. You can keep your slow cooker tomato basil chicken in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it for longer, consider freezing it for up to 3 months.

What's the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheating can be done easily on the stovetop or in the microwave. If using the stovetop, gently warm it over low heat until heated through. For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot. Enjoy that delightful flavor again!

For more recipes, check out FoodSafety.gov for tips on food storing and reheating!

Conclusion on Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken

In summary, this slow cooker tomato basil chicken recipe is a delightful, effortless meal that enhances any weeknight dinner. With minimal prep time, it's perfect for busy days. The rich flavors of tomatoes and basil will tantalize your taste buds. Enjoy servings over rice or pasta for a complete meal!