Slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts is a dish made with chicken breasts cooked in a slow cooker with tomato sauce, basil, and other seasonings. It is a simple and flavorful dish that can be prepared with minimal effort.
There are many benefits to cooking chicken breasts in a slow cooker. First, the slow cooker allows the chicken to cook slowly and evenly, resulting in tender and juicy meat. Second, the tomato sauce and basil add flavor and moisture to the chicken. Third, the slow cooker makes it easy to cook a large batch of chicken breasts, which is perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd.
Here are some of the main topics that will be covered in this article:
- The ingredients you need to make slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts
- The steps involved in making slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts
- Tips for making the best slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts
- Variations on the slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts recipe
Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken Breasts
Slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts is a dish that is easy to make and packed with flavor. It is a great option for a weeknight meal or for meal prepping. Here are five key aspects of slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts:
- Simple ingredients: This dish is made with just a few simple ingredients, including chicken breasts, tomato sauce, basil, garlic, and olive oil.
- Easy to make: Simply add all of the ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Flavorful: The combination of tomato sauce, basil, and garlic creates a delicious and flavorful dish.
- Versatile: Slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts can be served with a variety of sides, such as pasta, rice, or potatoes.
- Healthy: This dish is a good source of protein and vegetables.
Slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a great option for a weeknight meal or for meal prepping. The next time you are looking for an easy and delicious meal, give slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts a try.
Simple ingredients
The simple ingredients used in slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts are one of the things that make this dish so appealing. Chicken breasts are a lean and healthy source of protein, and they cook evenly in a slow cooker. Tomato sauce adds flavor and moisture to the chicken, and basil and garlic add a delicious herbaceous flavor. Olive oil helps to keep the chicken moist and prevents it from sticking to the slow cooker.
The combination of these simple ingredients creates a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a weeknight meal or for meal prepping. Slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts is also a great option for those who are new to cooking, as it is easy to make and requires minimal effort.
Here are some examples of how the simple ingredients in slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts come together to create a delicious and flavorful dish:
- The acidity of the tomato sauce helps to tenderize the chicken breasts, resulting in a juicy and flavorful dish.
- The basil and garlic add a delicious herbaceous flavor to the chicken and tomato sauce.
- The olive oil helps to keep the chicken moist and prevents it from sticking to the slow cooker.
Overall, the simple ingredients used in slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts are essential to the flavor and texture of the dish. By using a few simple and affordable ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion.
Easy to make
The ease of making slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts is one of its key advantages. This dish requires minimal effort and can be prepared in just a few simple steps. Here are some of the reasons why slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts is so easy to make:
- Few ingredients: This dish requires only a few simple ingredients, which are likely to be found in most kitchens. These ingredients include chicken breasts, tomato sauce, basil, garlic, and olive oil.
- Minimal preparation: The preparation for slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts is minimal. Simply add all of the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Hands-off cooking: Once you have added all of the ingredients to the slow cooker, you can simply walk away and let the slow cooker do its job. This is a great option for busy weeknights or for those who want to spend less time in the kitchen.
Overall, the ease of making slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts is one of the things that makes this dish so popular. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a delicious and flavorful meal that is perfect for any occasion.
Flavorful
The combination of tomato sauce, basil, and garlic is a classic flavor combination that is used in a variety of dishes, including slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts. This combination of flavors is flavorful and versatile, and it can be used to create a variety of dishes that are both delicious and easy to make.
- Sweetness: Tomato sauce is naturally sweet, and this sweetness is balanced by the acidity of the tomatoes. This sweetness helps to create a flavorful and well-rounded dish.
- Acidity: The acidity of the tomatoes in the tomato sauce helps to brighten the flavor of the dish and to prevent it from becoming too sweet. The acidity also helps to tenderize the chicken breasts, resulting in a juicy and flavorful dish.
- Herbaceousness: Basil is a fragrant herb that adds a delicious herbaceous flavor to the dish. Basil is also a good source of antioxidants, which can help to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
- Garlic: Garlic is a pungent herb that adds a savory flavor to the dish. Garlic is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese.
The combination of these flavors creates a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. Slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides, such as pasta, rice, or potatoes. This dish is also a good source of protein and vegetables, making it a healthy and satisfying meal.
Versatile
The versatility of slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts is one of its key advantages. This dish can be served with a variety of sides, making it a great option for a variety of meals. Here are some of the reasons why the versatility of slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts is important:
- Variety: Slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts can be served with a variety of sides, which allows you to create a different meal each time you make it. This is a great way to keep your meals interesting and to prevent boredom.
- Flexibility: The versatility of slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts makes it a great option for a variety of occasions. It can be served as a casual weeknight meal, or it can be dressed up for a more formal occasion.
- Meal prepping: Slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts is a great option for meal prepping. You can cook a large batch of chicken breasts on the weekend, and then reheat them throughout the week and serve them with different sides.
Overall, the versatility of slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts is one of the things that makes this dish so popular. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and flavorful meal that is perfect for any occasion.
Here are some examples of how the versatility of slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts can be used to create a variety of meals:
- Weeknight meal: Serve slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts with a side of pasta and a green salad for a quick and easy weeknight meal.
- Formal occasion: Serve slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts with a side of roasted potatoes and asparagus for a more formal occasion.
- Meal prepping: Cook a large batch of slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts on the weekend, and then reheat them throughout the week and serve them with different sides, such as rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes.
The versatility of slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts is only limited by your imagination. With a little creativity, you can create a variety of delicious and flavorful meals that are perfect for any occasion.
Healthy
Slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts is a healthy dish that is a good source of protein and vegetables. The chicken breasts provide lean protein, and the tomato sauce and basil provide vitamins and minerals. This dish is also low in fat and calories, making it a good choice for those who are watching their weight.
The protein in slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts is essential for building and repairing tissues. It also helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied after eating. The vegetables in this dish provide vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health. Tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that helps to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Basil is a good source of vitamin A, which is important for vision and immune function.
Slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts is a healthy and delicious dish that is easy to make. It is a good source of protein and vegetables, and it is low in fat and calories. This dish is a great option for a weeknight meal or for meal prepping.
FAQs for “slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts”
This section addresses frequently asked questions about slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts, providing clear and informative answers to common concerns or misconceptions.
Question 1: What is the best way to choose chicken breasts for this recipe?
Answer: When selecting chicken breasts for slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts, it’s important to look for breasts that are of even thickness and have no signs of bruising or discoloration. It’s also important to choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts to ensure even cooking and a tender texture.
Question 2: Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Answer: While chicken breasts are the traditional choice for this recipe, you can substitute other types of meat, such as pork chops or beef stew meat. However, it’s important to note that the cooking time may need to be adjusted depending on the type of meat used.
Question 3: How can I make this recipe in a different type of slow cooker?
Answer: Slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts can be made in any type of slow cooker, including crock-pots, oval slow cookers, and programmable slow cookers. However, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific slow cooker model to ensure proper cooking.
Question 4: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Answer: Yes, you can add other vegetables to this recipe to increase its nutritional value and flavor. Some popular additions include sliced bell peppers, diced onions, and chopped carrots. You can also add a handful of frozen peas or corn during the last hour of cooking.
Question 5: How can I thicken the sauce in this recipe?
Answer: If you find that the sauce in your slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts is too thin, you can thicken it by adding a cornstarch slurry. To make a cornstarch slurry, combine equal parts cornstarch and water in a small bowl and stir until smooth. Then, add the slurry to the slow cooker and cook on high for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
Question 6: What are some good side dishes to serve with slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts?
Answer: Slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts pair well with a variety of side dishes, including mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, and roasted vegetables. You can also serve this dish with a side salad or a crusty bread roll.
In summary, slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts is a versatile and flavorful dish that can be customized to your liking. By following these FAQs, you can ensure that your slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts turns out perfectly every time.
Please proceed to the next section for more information on slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts.
Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken Breasts Tips
Slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a weeknight meal or for meal prepping. Here are five tips to help you make the most of this dish:
Tip 1: Use high-quality ingredients. The quality of your ingredients will greatly impact the flavor of your dish. Look for chicken breasts that are fresh and free of any bruising or discoloration. Use a good quality tomato sauce that is made with real tomatoes and herbs. Fresh basil will give your dish the best flavor, but dried basil can be used in a pinch.
Tip 2: Brown the chicken breasts before adding them to the slow cooker. Browning the chicken breasts helps to develop flavor and give the dish a more complex taste. To brown the chicken breasts, heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown.
Tip 3: Add vegetables to the slow cooker. Adding vegetables to the slow cooker will increase the nutritional value of the dish and make it more filling. Some good vegetables to add to slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts include carrots, celery, onions, and potatoes.
Tip 4: Cook the chicken breasts on low for 6-8 hours. Cooking the chicken breasts on low for 6-8 hours will help to make them tender and juicy. If you are short on time, you can cook the chicken breasts on high for 3-4 hours, but they will not be as tender.
Tip 5: Serve the chicken breasts with your favorite sides. Slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts can be served with a variety of sides, such as pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve the chicken breasts with a side salad or a crusty bread roll.
By following these tips, you can make a delicious and flavorful slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts that your family and friends will love.
Please proceed to the next section for more information on slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts.
Conclusion
Slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts is a versatile and flavorful dish that is perfect for a weeknight meal or for meal prepping. It is easy to make, and the simple ingredients combine to create a delicious and satisfying dish. The combination of tomato sauce, basil, and garlic creates a flavorful sauce that pairs well with the tender chicken breasts. This dish can be served with a variety of sides, making it a great option for any occasion.
In addition to being delicious and versatile, slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts is also a healthy dish. The chicken breasts provide lean protein, and the tomato sauce and basil provide vitamins and minerals. This dish is also low in fat and calories, making it a good choice for those who are watching their weight. Overall, slow cooker tomato basil chicken breasts is a delicious, healthy, and versatile dish that is perfect for any occasion.