Who doesn’t love coming home to the tantalizing aroma of a home-cooked meal?
Imagine walking through your door to the rich scent of tomatoes, fragrant basil, and tender chicken – all thanks to your trusty slow cooker!
Did you know that 86% of American households own a slow cooker? It’s no wonder, with dishes like our tomato basil chicken making dinner time a breeze.
Let’s dive into this game-changing recipe that’ll have your taste buds dancing and your evenings stress-free!
Flavor Variations and Customization Options
One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is! Here are some delicious variations to try:
- Mediterranean Twist: Add 1/2 cup of pitted Kalamata olives and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese before serving.
- Spicy Kick: Double the red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño for extra heat.
- Creamy Delight: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk in the last 30 minutes of cooking for a richer sauce.
- Veggie Boost: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
- Keto-Friendly: Use cherry tomatoes instead of canned and add extra olive oil for a higher fat content.
Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas
This tomato basil chicken is a star on its own, but here are some ideas to make it a complete meal:
- Serve over whole wheat pasta, zucchini noodles, or cauliflower rice.
- Pair with a crisp green salad and crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- For wine lovers, a light-bodied Pinot Noir or a crisp Pinot Grigio complements the dish beautifully.
- Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an Instagram-worthy presentation.
Leftovers? No problem! This dish reheats wonderfully. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutritional Benefits of Tomato Basil Chicken
Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients:
- Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle health and satiety.
- Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to heart health and cancer prevention.
- Basil contains vitamins K, A, and C, as well as manganese and iron.
- This low-carb meal fits well into keto and paleo diets.
- The olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats.
Troubleshooting Common Slow Cooker Issues
Even the most experienced cooks can run into issues. Here are some quick fixes:
- Dry chicken? Make sure you’re not overcooking. Check for doneness at the earlier end of the cooking time range.
- Too much liquid? Remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.
- Bland flavor? Don’t be shy with seasonings. Slow cookers can mute flavors, so taste and adjust before serving.
- Greasy sauce? Let the dish cool slightly and skim off excess fat with a spoon.
Remember, every slow cooker is different. Get to know yours and adjust cooking times accordingly.
There you have it – your ticket to a stress-free, delicious dinner that’ll impress family and friends alike!
Our slow cooker tomato basil chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a lifesaver for busy days and a flavor explosion for your palate.
Remember, the beauty of slow cooking lies in its flexibility, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own.
Whether you’re a slow cooker novice or a crockpot connoisseur, this dish is bound to become a staple in your home.
Happy cooking, and bon appétit!
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work great in this recipe and often stay more tender during long cooking times.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Definitely! Use the sauté function for the initial steps, then cook on high pressure for 12 minutes with a 10-minute natural release.
How can I thicken the sauce?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs)
- 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
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts. Season them generously with salt and pepper.
- 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). This step is optional but adds a ton of flavor!
- Transfer the seared chicken to your slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Add this to the slow cooker.
- Pour the crushed tomatoes over the chicken and onion mixture. Add the dried oregano and red pepper flakes if using.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh basil leaves.