Slow Cooker Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes & Basil

This Slow Cooker Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes & Basil is a light, flavorful, and satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken breasts, sweet cherry tomatoes, and the aromatic freshness of basil. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a laid-back weekend meal, this recipe is incredibly simple to prepare—just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Requires minimal prep time and effort
• Packed with fresh, summery flavors
• Perfectly tender chicken every time
• Great for meal prep or leftovers
• Naturally gluten-free and low carb
• Versatile – serve with rice, pasta, or crusty bread
• Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing
• A healthy, wholesome dinner option
• Budget-friendly with accessible ingredients
• Ideal for both summer and cozy seasons

ingredients

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

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Cherry tomatoes
• Fresh basil leaves
• Garlic cloves
• Olive oil
• Balsamic vinegar
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Chicken broth or white wine (optional for extra flavor)

directions

1. Add the chicken breasts to the slow cooker in a single layer.
2. Scatter the cherry tomatoes and garlic over the top.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 2.5–3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
6. During the last 30 minutes, stir in fresh basil and let it infuse the dish.
7. Shred or slice the chicken if desired. Serve with the tomatoes and juices spooned over the top.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5–6 hours on low or 2.5–3 hours on high
Total Time: Approximately 6 hours

Variations

• Add mozzarella or parmesan for a cheesy twist
• Use boneless chicken thighs for a juicier result
• Swap cherry tomatoes with grape tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes
• Add spinach or kale in the last 10 minutes for extra greens
• Include mushrooms or zucchini for more veggie power
• Serve over polenta, couscous, or quinoa instead of pasta or rice
• Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave in 1-minute intervals until warmed through, or reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat. For freezing, allow the dish to cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is tender enough to shred easily with a fork.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking and food safety. If using directly from frozen, ensure your slow cooker reaches a safe temperature quickly.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil adds the best flavor, but you can use 1 teaspoon of dried basil in a pinch. Add it at the beginning of cooking.

What should I serve this dish with?

It pairs well with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, cook on high for 2.5–3 hours if you’re short on time, but low and slow will yield more tender chicken.

How can I make this dish creamier?

Stir in a splash of cream or a spoonful of cream cheese at the end for a richer texture.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely. Bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini all work well in this recipe.

Does this recipe work with chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless, skinless thighs are a great substitute and may even be more flavorful and juicy.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Yes, use one 14.5-ounce can of diced tomatoes, preferably fire-roasted for added flavor.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes & Basil is a no-fuss, full-flavor dish that fits effortlessly into your routine. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family dinner or a wholesome meal prep option, this recipe delivers delicious results every time. Give it a try and let the slow cooker work its magic!

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