Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken
This Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken is a delicious and effortless Italian-American fusion dish that's perfect for busy weeknights.Tender chicken breasts are slow-cooked in a rich tomato sauce infused with fresh basil and aromatic herbs.
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.
Notes
Pro tip: For the best flavor, opt for San Marzano tomatoes and free-range chicken. And don't skimp on the basil - fresh is best!