Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breast

Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken delivers tender chicken breasts in a rich, creamy tomato sauce with fresh basil flavor. This dump-and-go crockpot recipe takes just 5 minutes to prep and serves a family of 4-6 perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This slow cooker chicken shines with juicy results and minimal effort. The creamy sauce clings to every bite without curdling, thanks to a simple cornstarch trick. Families rave about its comforting taste over pasta or rice.​

Aspect	Details
Prep Time	5 minutes
Cook Time	3-4 hours
Servings	4-6
Calories	~400 per serving
Cuisine	Italian-inspired American

Ingredients

Gather these pantry staples for success. Images of each help visualize portions.

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs; thighs work too)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with Italian herbs (with juice)
• 1 cup marinara sauce (choose a well-seasoned brand)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (or evaporated milk)
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Substitutions: Use chicken thighs for juicier dark meat (add 30 min cook time). Swap diced tomatoes for extra marinara if you prefer smooth sauce. Coconut cream works for dairy-free.​

![Ingredients laid out for slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken: canned tomatoes, marinara, cream, chicken breasts, garlic, and herbs on a white counter]​

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these numbered steps for foolproof results. Use a 4-6 quart slow cooker.

1. Add diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, minced garlic, salt, Italian seasoning, dried basil, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.​

![Tomato sauce and seasonings mixed in slow cooker]

2. In a small bowl, whisk heavy cream and cornstarch until smooth. Pour into the slow cooker and stir well.​

![Cream and cornstarch whisked together]

3. Nestle chicken breasts into the sauce, pressing down to submerge. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, until chicken reaches 165°F internally (check at 2.5 hours for smaller breasts).​

![Raw chicken breasts added to sauce in slow cooker]

4. Shred chicken lightly with two forks (optional for easier serving). Stir in fresh basil. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with Parmesan.​

![Finished creamy tomato basil chicken in slow cooker, garnished with basil]

Cook Time Note: Low for 3-4 hours keeps chicken tender. High needs 2-2.5 hours max; always use a meat thermometer.​

Expert Tips for Success

• Line your slow cooker with a liner for zero cleanup.
• Avoid low-fat milk or half-and-half; they curdle with tomatoes. Stick to heavy cream or evaporated milk.
• All slow cookers vary; check early to prevent dry chicken.
• Double the sauce for leftovers by adding an extra cup marinara.​

Serving Suggestions

Spoon over spaghetti, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce. Pair with a green salad or garlic bread.​

• Pasta night: Toss with penne or spaghetti.
• Rice bowl: Serve over white or brown rice.
• Low-carb: Enjoy standalone with steamed broccoli.

![Sliced chicken over pasta with creamy sauce and basil garnish]

Variations

Customize for your crew.

• Veggie boost: Add spinach or baby potatoes in step 3.
• Spicy kick: Stir in red pepper flakes with seasonings.
• Dairy-free: Use full-fat coconut cream.
• Instant Pot: Same ingredients; saute garlic first, pressure cook 10 min high, quick release, then add cream.​

Storage and Freezing

Leftovers keep 3-4 days in the fridge. Reheat gently on stovetop with a splash of cream. Freeze in airtight containers up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.​

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Approximate values based on 6 servings.

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	400
Protein	35g
Carbs	12g
Fat	22g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	6g

Frequently Asked Questions

How long to cook chicken breasts in the crockpot?
Aim for 3 hours on low until 165°F. Smaller breasts may finish at 2.5 hours.​

Can I use half-and-half or milk?
Heavy cream or evaporated milk resists curdling best. Low-fat options may separate.​

What kind of tomato pasta sauce?
Any marinara or Italian-seasoned jarred sauce works; avoid plain crushed tomatoes.​

Can I put raw chicken in the slow cooker?
Yes, that’s the beauty of dump-and-go recipes like this one.​

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