Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Recipe

It’s extremely simple and requires minimal prep — just stir ingredients together and let the slow cooker do the work.
The creamy tomato and basil sauce is flavorful, cozy, and pairs well with many sides like pasta, rice, veggies, or bread.
The chicken comes out tender and juicy, and the sauce has a lovely texture — creamy but with the brightness of herbs and tomato.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 can diced tomatoes with Italian herbs (14 oz / 398 ml)
1 cup marinara sauce
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon dried basil
¼ teaspoon pepper
½ 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)

Directions

Add the diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, minced garlic, salt, Italian seasoning, dried basil, and pepper to a 4‑ to 6‑quart slow cooker. Stir to combine.
In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and cornstarch until smooth. Add this mixture to the slow cooker and stir.
Add the chicken breasts to the sauce, pressing them down so they’re covered.
Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165 °F (75 °C).
Once done, stir in the fresh chopped basil. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: ~5 minutes
Cook time: 3 to 4 hours (slow cooker, low setting)
Total time: ~3 hours 5 minutes

Variations

You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts — they’ll remain juicy and may even turn out more tender.
If you don’t like chunks of tomato, substitute the diced tomatoes with an extra cup of marinara sauce for a smoother sauce.
For a dairy-free or lighter version, coconut milk or light cream can be used in place of heavy cream, though the flavor and texture will vary.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of balsamic vinegar for an extra flavor boost.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2–3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stove over medium-low heat or microwave in intervals. If the sauce thickens, add a splash of cream, broth, or water to loosen it.

FAQs

How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer — the thickest part of the chicken should read 165 °F (75 °C).

Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless breasts?

Yes, but bone-in pieces may require a longer cooking time and might slightly alter the texture of the sauce.

Can I skip the cream or cornstarch for a lighter version?

Yes, but the sauce will be much thinner and less creamy without the cornstarch and cream.

What if I don’t have fresh basil?

You can stick with the dried basil in the sauce, or use a small amount of pesto as a substitute for fresh basil.

Is it okay to use half-and-half or regular milk instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or milk may curdle in the slow cooker due to the acidity of the tomatoes. Heavy cream is more stable and preferred.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can be added during the last hour of cooking.

What should I serve this with?

Serve it over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or alongside crusty bread and a fresh salad.

Can I make this in an oven instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, bake everything in a covered casserole dish at 350 °F (180 °C) for 25–35 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.

How do I make the sauce thicker if it’s too watery?

Mix a little extra cornstarch with cold water or cream and stir it in, then simmer until thickened.

Can I use this recipe for meal prep?

Absolutely — it stores well and reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prepping a few days ahead.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a delicious, fuss-free meal perfect for any night of the week. With tender chicken smothered in a smooth, herby tomato-cream sauce, it’s as comforting as it is convenient. Whether you’re cooking for the family or prepping ahead, this recipe delivers dependable flavor with minimal effort.

Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken