Lu-Ann Simon June 4, 2026

This post may contain affiliate links, please see our Disclosure for details.

Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Name: Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 4 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 can diced tomatoes with Italian herbs (14oz or 398ml); 1 cup marinara sauce; 3 cloves garlic, finely minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon dried basil; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs); 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil; Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Recipes Lova Cookbook

Love This Recipe? You'll Love the Next 100.

Get 100 cozy family recipes with beautiful full-color photos, simple ingredients, and easy step-by-step instructions.

✓ 100 Easy Family Recipes
✓ Beautiful Full-Color Photos
✓ Simple Step-by-Step Instructions
✓ Instant PDF Download

Get the Cookbook →

Only $19.99 • Instant PDF Download

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is the perfect dish for cozy nights in. The aromas of simmering tomatoes and fresh basil wafting through the kitchen create an inviting atmosphere that invites everyone to the table. It’s the kind of meal that warms your soul, perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. Plus, it’s simple to make, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen.

What Makes This Special

There are so many reasons to fall in love with Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken. Here’s what makes this dish a must-try:

Rich, creamy sauce that envelops tender chicken.
Fresh basil adds a delightful burst of flavor.
Perfect for meal prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Great for leftovers, perfect for lunch the next day.

Gather These Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking, it’s essential to gather your ingredients. Each element plays a vital role in building the delicious flavors of this dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 can diced tomatoes with Italian herbs (14oz or 398ml)
1 cup marinara sauce
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons cornstarch
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs)
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil
Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Feel free to use store-bought marinara or make your own for an extra touch of homemade flavor.

Step by Step

Cooking Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Here’s how to bring this dish together:

Prepare the Sauce: In your slow cooker, add the diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, garlic, salt, Italian seasoning, basil, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
Mix the Cream: In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and cornstarch until smooth. Once mixed, pour this mixture into the slow cooker, stirring to combine.
Add Chicken: Place the chicken breasts into the slow cooker, pressing them down into the sauce so they are well coated.
Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Cook for 3 to 4 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
Finish with Fresh Herbs: Once the cooking time is up, stir in the fresh basil. Taste the sauce and adjust any seasonings if necessary.
Serve: Ladle the creamy chicken onto plates and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Prep ~ 10 minutes, Cook ~ 3 to 4 hours, Total ~ 3 to 4 hours, Servings ~ 4, Kcal ~ 400 (approximate).

Plan Ahead

If you’re looking to make your week easier, consider preparing some elements in advance. You can chop the garlic and measure out the spices a day or two prior. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken can also be seasoned in advance and marinated in the sauce for added flavor. Just assemble everything in the slow cooker in the morning, and by dinner, you’ll have a delectable meal waiting for you.

How to Store Leftovers

After enjoying your Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken, you may have some leftovers. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them even longer, consider freezing the dish for up to 2 months. When reheating, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of cream to retain its creamy texture. The freshness cue? Look for the rich aroma of tomatoes and basil that will fill your kitchen.

Perfect Pairings

When serving Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken, consider these delightful pairings:

Crusty bread for dipping in the creamy sauce.
A light salad with vinaigrette to add some crunch.
Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
A side of pasta to absorb the delicious sauce.
Fluffy rice or quinoa to complement the dish.

Flavor Twists and Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some fun ideas:

Swap out the heavy cream for a lighter option like coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Add spinach or kale to the sauce for extra nutrition.
Mix in some sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper, richer flavor.
Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier texture.
Experiment with different herbs, such as oregano or thyme, to change the flavor profile.

Cook’s Notes and Secrets

To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken, consider these helpful tips:

Ensure chicken breasts are arranged in a single layer for even cooking.
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 165 degrees F in the thickest part of the chicken.
Let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking before serving to thicken the sauce slightly.
Stirring occasionally during the cooking process will help distribute the flavors evenly.

Your Questions Answered

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just be aware that cooking time may increase.
Is there a vegetarian option?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or chickpeas.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients, but make sure your slow cooker has enough capacity to hold everything.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
You can make your own mix with equal parts dried basil, oregano, and thyme if needed.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a comforting, easy-to-make recipe that brings the warmth of home-cooked meals to your table. It’s a dish that is not only delicious but perfect for busy lifestyles. Why not try it soon? You’ll be glad you did! For another delightful slow cooker option, check out this Chicken Pot Pie recipe or explore a filling slow cooker chicken burrito bowl for a change of pace!

Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Author: anastasia-rice
Total Time: 240 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free

Print Recipe

Description

A comforting, creamy dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato sauce with fresh basil, perfect for cozy nights and busy weeknights.

Instructions

Prepare the Sauce: In your slow cooker, add the diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, garlic, salt, Italian seasoning, basil, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
Mix the Cream: In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and cornstarch until smooth. Once mixed, pour this mixture into the slow cooker, stirring to combine.
Add Chicken: Place the chicken breasts into the slow cooker, pressing them down into the sauce so they are well coated.
Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Cook for 180 to 240 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
Finish with Fresh Herbs: Once the cooking time is up, stir in the fresh basil. Taste the sauce and adjust any seasonings if necessary.
Serve: Ladle the creamy chicken onto plates and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.