Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

If you’re searching for a comforting, family-friendly dinner that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen — but secretly takes only minutes to prepare — Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken might just become your new go-to recipe.

There’s something magical about tossing a handful of simple ingredients into a slow cooker, walking away, and returning to a rich, creamy, herby tomato sauce with tender, juicy chicken that practically melts under your fork. It’s the kind of meal that feels cozy enough for a Sunday dinner yet easy enough for the busiest weekday.

This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken recipe checks every box: minimal prep, pantry staples, bold Italian-inspired flavors, and endless serving options. Whether you spoon it over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or mop up the sauce with crusty bread, every bite delivers creamy tomato goodness infused with garlic and fresh basil.

Below, you’ll find everything you need to know — from ingredients and step-by-step instructions to expert tips, variations, serving ideas, storage advice, and more — so you can master this delicious slow cooker favorite.

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Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Let’s start with why this dish deserves a permanent place in your weekly rotation.

First, the ease factor is unbeatable. With just five minutes of prep time, you simply combine the sauce ingredients, add the chicken, and let the slow cooker do all the work. No babysitting, no stirring, no complicated steps.

Second, the flavors are rich and satisfying. The combination of tomatoes, marinara sauce, garlic, herbs, and cream creates a velvety sauce that tastes indulgent but is made with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Third, it’s versatile. This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken works beautifully with pasta, rice, low-carb options like zucchini noodles, or even tucked into sandwiches.

And finally, it’s meal-prep friendly. The leftovers taste even better the next day, making it perfect for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

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What Makes Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken So Special?

The secret to the incredible flavor of Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken lies in slow cooking.

When the chicken simmers gently for hours in the tomato cream sauce, several things happen:

• The chicken becomes ultra tender

• The garlic and herbs infuse deeply into the sauce

• The tomatoes break down and thicken naturally

• The cream adds richness without overpowering

Unlike stovetop methods that can dry out chicken or cause sauces to separate, slow cooking creates a silky, cohesive sauce and perfectly cooked meat every single time.

It’s comfort food made effortless.

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Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 3–4 hours

Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes

Servings: 4

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Ingredients

• 1 can (14 oz / 398 ml) diced tomatoes with Italian herbs, with juice

• 1 cup marinara sauce

• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs)

• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped

• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

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Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Add the sauce base

In a 4–6 quart slow cooker, combine diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, garlic, salt, Italian seasoning, dried basil, and pepper. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed.

2. Add the cream mixture

In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream and cornstarch until completely smooth. This step ensures a thick, creamy sauce later. Pour the mixture into the slow cooker and stir.

3. Add the chicken

Place the chicken breasts directly into the sauce. Press them down gently so they are mostly submerged.

4. Cook

Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

5. Finish

Stir in the fresh basil. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

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Flavor Profile of Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

One bite of this Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken and you’ll notice layers of flavor:

The tomatoes bring brightness and slight sweetness.
The garlic adds savory depth.
Italian seasoning provides warmth and herbaceous notes.
Cream creates richness and balances acidity.
Fresh basil delivers a burst of freshness at the end.

Together, they form a silky, restaurant-style sauce that clings beautifully to every bite of chicken and whatever base you serve it with.

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Serving Ideas

One of the best things about Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is how adaptable it is. Here are some delicious ways to serve it:

• Toss with pasta or fettuccine

• Spoon over white or brown rice

• Serve atop creamy mashed potatoes

• Pair with crusty bread for dipping

• Add steamed vegetables on the side

• Stuff into toasted hoagie rolls

• Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice

• Use as a filling for wraps or flatbreads

No matter how you plate it, that creamy tomato basil sauce steals the show.

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Expert Tips for Perfect Results

Use thighs for extra juiciness

Chicken thighs stay incredibly moist and flavorful during long cooking.

Don’t skip the cornstarch

This helps thicken the sauce so it’s creamy rather than watery.

Use heavy cream or evaporated milk

Regular milk can curdle in acidic tomato sauces.

Adjust seasoning at the end

Tomatoes vary in acidity, so always taste before serving.

Let it rest briefly

Allowing the dish to sit for 5 minutes thickens the sauce even more.

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Easy Variations

One of the joys of Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is how easy it is to customize.

Spicy version

Add red pepper flakes or cayenne.

Cheesy version

Stir in mozzarella or cream cheese.

Veggie-packed

Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.

Dairy-lighter

Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or evaporated milk.

Pesto twist

Stir in a spoonful of pesto if fresh basil isn’t available.

Low-carb

Serve over spaghetti squash or cauliflower mash.

Each variation keeps the base recipe intact while offering something new and exciting.

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Meal Prep & Storage

This recipe stores beautifully, making it perfect for busy households.

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Warm gently on the stove or microwave. Add a splash of cream or broth if the sauce thickens too much.

Many people say Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken tastes even better the next day because the flavors deepen overnight.

Print

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 210

• Carbohydrates: 16g

• Protein: 29g

• Fat: 3g

• Saturated Fat: 1g

• Cholesterol: 74mg

• Sodium: 1099mg

• Fiber: 2g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, cook on high for 2–2.5 hours, but low heat produces more tender results.

Can I use frozen chicken?

It’s safer to thaw first for even cooking.

Why is my sauce thin?

Remove the lid for 15–20 minutes at the end or add a little more cornstarch slurry.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use coconut cream or a dairy-free cooking cream.

What pasta works best?

Fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni hold the sauce well.

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Perfect for Every Occasion

This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken isn’t just a weeknight dinner. It’s also ideal for:

• Family meals

• Meal prep Sundays

• Potlucks

• Casual gatherings

• Busy workdays

• Comfort food cravings

Because it scales easily, you can double the recipe for a crowd without any extra effort.

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Cooking Timeline Example

Morning: Add everything to the slow cooker
Midday: House fills with amazing aroma
Dinner: Tender chicken in rich sauce ready to serve

It truly doesn’t get easier.

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Why This Recipe Works for Busy Families

Life gets hectic. Between work, errands, and activities, cooking often feels overwhelming. That’s where Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken shines.

Five minutes of prep means no stress. The slow cooker handles the rest. By dinnertime, you have a warm, comforting meal waiting for you.

No takeout needed.

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Making It Feel Restaurant-Quality

Want to elevate your Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken?

Try these finishing touches:

• Extra fresh basil

• Shaved Parmesan

• Drizzle of olive oil

• Crack of fresh black pepper

• Toasted garlic bread on the side

Small additions make it feel gourmet.

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Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Approved

The mild creamy tomato flavor makes this dish incredibly kid-friendly. It’s not spicy or complicated — just comforting and familiar.

Even picky eaters tend to love it, especially when served with pasta or cheese.

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Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a recipe that delivers big flavor with almost zero effort, Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is exactly what you need. It’s creamy, comforting, and endlessly versatile — the kind of meal that makes busy days easier and dinner more enjoyable.

With simple ingredients, minimal prep time, and reliable results, this dish proves that homemade comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you serve it over pasta, rice, or vegetables, it’s guaranteed to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.