It was a rainy Wednesday evening when I decided to whip up something comforting and heartwarming. The smell of Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken wafted through my kitchen, making it feel like a warm hug from the inside out. Picture this: juicy chicken bathed in a rich tomato sauce, punctuated by the fresh aroma of basil. Itās the kind of dish that can turn an ordinary day into an extraordinary one, perfect for cozy dinners or impressing unexpected guests.
I still remember the first time I made this dish. I had just moved into my apartment and was eager to show off my culinary skills. My friends were skeptical about my slow cooker, but the moment they tasted that delicious chicken, they were converts! Whether youāre entertaining or just want to treat yourself after a long day, this recipe promises to deliver amazing flavors and nostalgia in every bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken is incredibly easy to prepare with minimal cleanup required
- Its rich flavor profile combines tangy tomatoes and aromatic basil, creating a delightful experience for your taste buds
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing on your dinner table, ensuring that it will impress family and friends alike
- Versatile enough for any occasion, from casual family dinners to special celebrations!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken
Hereās what youāll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work perfectly; adjust as needed based on your crowd size.
- Fresh Garlic: Use firm garlic cloves for an aromatic punch; donāt skimp on this essential ingredient!
- Canned Diced Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality tomatoes to ensure rich flavor; look for those packed in juice rather than sauce.
- Fresh Basil: This herb elevates the dish; use whole leaves if possible for maximum freshness.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs enhances flavor depth; you can also use freshly chopped herbs if you have them.
For the Sauce:
- Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth allows better control over saltiness while keeping the dish moist and flavorful.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil adds richness; donāt skip this step!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken
Start by preparing your chicken breasts. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step ensures that they sear nicely when you add them to the slow cooker.
Next, slice up your fresh garlic. As you chop, let the pungent aroma tickle your sensesāitās like garlic confetti! Once sliced, toss it into your slow cooker along with the chicken.
Now we dive into sauce heaven! Pour in those canned diced tomatoes along with their juicesāthis is where the magic truly begins. The vibrant red color signifies all the flavors waiting to meld together.
Add in your fresh basil leaves next. I love tearing them by hand; it releases oils that enhance their fragrance. Just a few leaves can transform this dish into something extraordinary!
Sprinkle Italian seasoning over everything like youāre casting a savory spell! Donāt be shyāthis blend brings out all those wonderful flavors hiding within the chicken and tomatoes.
Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth followed by a drizzle of olive oil for added richness. Stir gently until everything is well combinedāthis is where patience pays off!
Cover your slow cooker and set it on low heat for about six hours or high heat for three hoursāeither way, resist peeking too often! You want those flavors to develop without interruption.
As time passes, let that mouthwatering aroma fill your home while you dream about how incredible dinner will be! After cooking time is up, check if the chicken shreds easily with two forksāthatās your cue that itās ready!
Finally, serve hot over steamed rice or pasta garnished with extra basil leaves if desired. Youāll want everyone at the table to dive right in because Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken is pure comfort food bliss!
Trust me; one bite will transport you back to those cozy evenings filled with laughter and deliciousness!
You Must Know
- This Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken is not just a meal; itās an experience that transforms your kitchen into a cozy Italian bistro
- With minimal effort, you can whip up a dish that impresses everyone at the dinner table
- The aroma alone will send taste buds dancing!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve mouthwatering results, start by searing the chicken to lock in flavor. While thatās happening, chop your tomatoes and basil. Then, toss everything into the slow cooker for hands-off magic.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or add some veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. Experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme to make this dish uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or microwave until heated through for a quick meal.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness and flavor
- Always check seasoning before serving; it makes a world of difference
- Donāt rush the slow cooking process; let those flavors mingle and develop fully
Sometimes I find myself reminiscing about that time I made this dish for a dinner party, and everyone went back for seconds. Nothing beats seeing friends enjoy your cooking while their eyes light up with delight!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken?
To make Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken, you will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, fresh tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes, garlic, fresh basil leaves, olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add onions for extra flavor. These simple ingredients combine to create a delicious meal thatās both healthy and satisfying. Feel free to customize your dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrients.
How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken?
Cooking Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken typically takes about 4-6 hours on low heat or 2-3 hours on high heat. The cooking time may vary based on the thickness of your chicken breasts and the specific model of your slow cooker. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165Ā°F (75Ā°C) before serving to guarantee it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken for later enjoyment. After cooking, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When youāre ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave until warmed through.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken?
Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken pairs wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving it over rice or pasta to soak up the flavorful sauce. A fresh side salad or steamed vegetables complements the dish nicely as well. For a heartier option, you could serve it with crusty bread or garlic bread to enjoy every bit of the savory sauce.
Conclusion for Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken:
In summary, Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken is a delightful and easy meal option that brings together fresh flavors in a convenient way. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can create a dish that is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with family and friends. This recipe not only highlights the vibrant taste of basil but also ensures that your chicken remains tender and juicy. Enjoy this comforting meal any day of the week!
Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings the warmth of Italian cuisine right to your kitchen. This recipe features tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich tomato sauce infused with fresh garlic and aromatic basil, creating an irresistible meal thatās perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With minimal prep and cleanup, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 28 oz canned diced tomatoes
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse and pat dry the chicken breasts. Place them in the slow cooker.
- Add minced garlic, diced tomatoes (with juice), torn basil, Italian seasoning, chicken broth, and olive oil to the slow cooker.
- Stir gently to combine all ingredients. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until the chicken shreds easily with two forks.
- Serve hot over rice or pasta, garnished with additional basil if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: For added flavor, sear the chicken breasts before adding them to the slow cooker. You can swap chicken for turkey or add vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for variation. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
