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Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Tender chicken breasts slow-cooked in a rich, creamy tomato and basil sauce. Perfect for a simple yet flavorful weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 410

Ingredients
  

Chicken and Sauce Base
  • 2.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts About 4 medium breasts
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes Undrained
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 ounce packet dry Italian dressing mix
  • 4 cloves garlic Minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
Creamy Finish
  • 8 ounces cream cheese Cubed, full fat recommended
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream Or half-and-half
  • 0.25 cup fresh basil leaves Roughly chopped, for garnish/stirring in at the end

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Place the chicken breasts on the bottom of a large slow cooker (6-quart size recommended).
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, Italian dressing mix, minced garlic, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pour the tomato mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreddable.
  5. Carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and place them on a cutting board. Shred the chicken using two forks or leave them whole, depending on preference.
  6. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Reduce the heat to 'Warm' if necessary. Add the cubed cream cheese and heavy cream to the sauce.
  7. Stir gently until the cream cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and fully incorporated. This may take 10-15 minutes.
  8. Stir in half of the fresh basil just before serving. Garnish with the remaining fresh basil. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread.

Notes

For an extra layer of flavor, lightly sear the chicken breasts on both sides in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. This recipe pairs exceptionally well with penne pasta or creamy polenta.
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