Description
This Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken is a flavorful and hearty dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich tomato sauce infused with fresh basil, garlic, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for an easy, set-it-and-forget-it meal that delivers vibrant Italian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs)
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
Seasonings and Oil
- 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 freshly ground black pepper for enhanced flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and quickly sear the chicken breasts on both sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step adds depth of flavor but is optional.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Place the seared chicken breasts into your slow cooker as the base of the dish.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, sauté the diced onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes. Then, add this fragrant mixture to the slow cooker on top of the chicken.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour the crushed tomatoes over the chicken and onion mixture. Sprinkle in the dried oregano and red pepper flakes if desired, distributing seasoning evenly.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is fully cooked and tender when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Add Fresh Basil: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh chopped basil leaves to infuse fresh herbal aroma and finish the sauce.
Notes
- Searing the chicken is optional but recommended for deeper flavor.
- Red pepper flakes can be omitted or adjusted to taste depending on spice preference.
- This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.
