Description
This Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken is a comforting, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich tomato sauce infused with fresh basil, garlic, and herbs. Perfect for an easy, hands-off meal, this recipe combines the convenience of slow cooking with bold, fresh flavors for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs)
Sauce
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves (roughly chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts and season them generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Sear the Chicken (Optional): Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Quickly sear the chicken breasts on both sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side, to lock in juices and add depth to the flavor.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Place the seared chicken breasts into your slow cooker, ensuring they are spread in an even layer.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, cook the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This will soften and mellow the flavors before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Pour the crushed tomatoes over the chicken and onions in the slow cooker. Sprinkle in the dried oregano and red pepper flakes if using. Season further with salt and pepper as desired.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is tender.
- Add Fresh Basil: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh basil leaves to infuse the sauce with fresh herb flavor without losing its vibrancy.
Notes
- Searing the chicken before slow cooking is optional but enhances flavor and color.
- Adjust red pepper flakes quantity to control the spiciness.
- Use fresh basil for the best flavor, adding it late preserves its brightness.
- This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- Leftovers store well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
