When you need a hearty, flavorful dinner that practically cooks itself, Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is your answer. This Italian-inspired dish features tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato-basil sauce with creamy, cheesy goodness. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals.

This recipe is a lifesaver: toss the ingredients in your slow cooker in the morning, and by dinner, your home will be filled with the mouthwatering aroma of a homemade Italian feast. Serve it over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.

💖 Why You’ll Love This Dish

Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work—just set it and forget it.
Family-Friendly: The creamy tomato-basil sauce pleases even picky eaters.
Versatile Serving: Pairs beautifully with pasta, mashed potatoes, or zucchini noodles.
Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers taste even better the next day.

🛒 Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
2 tbsp olive oil

🥣 Instructions

Prep the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned. (This step is optional but adds flavor.)
Assemble in Slow Cooker: Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Add crushed tomatoes, garlic, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Add Cream and Basil: About 20 minutes before serving, stir in heavy cream and chopped basil. Let it heat through and thicken slightly.
Serve: Plate chicken, spoon creamy tomato basil sauce on top, and garnish with extra basil and Parmesan. Serve with pasta, rice, or bread.

💡 Tips for Perfect Results

Searing Optional: Searing locks in flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
Fresh Basil is Key: Fresh basil brings a bright, aromatic flavor that dried basil can’t match.
Adjust Thickness: If the sauce is too thin, leave the slow cooker uncovered for the last 15 minutes to thicken.

🍝 Serving Suggestions

Over Pasta: Use fettuccine or penne for a classic Italian-style dinner.
With Rice: Fluffy white rice or brown rice soaks up the creamy sauce perfectly.
Low-Carb Option: Serve with zucchini noodles or roasted vegetables.
With Bread: Pair with warm focaccia or garlic bread to mop up every bit of sauce.