Slow Cooker Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes & Basil

Slow Cooker Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes & Basil is a light, flavorful, and effortlessly elegant dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Juicy chicken simmers slowly with sweet cherry tomatoes, garlic, and herbs until tender, then gets finished with fresh basil for a burst of summery brightness. It’s an easy, wholesome meal that tastes like sunshine in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh, clean flavors with minimal prep
• Uses simple, healthy ingredients
• A great way to use up fresh basil and cherry tomatoes
• Perfect served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread
• Naturally gluten-free and low in carbs

Ingredients

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

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Cherry tomatoes (halved if large)
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Olive oil
• Chicken broth or white wine
• Balsamic vinegar (optional, for depth)
• Salt and pepper
• Dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• Fresh basil leaves
• Optional: red pepper flakes, grated Parmesan, or baby spinach

Directions

this recipe

1. Place chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker and season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano or Italian seasoning.
2. Add halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil over the top.
3. Pour in chicken broth or white wine. Add a splash of balsamic vinegar if using.
4. Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or on high for 2.5–3.5 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
5. Before serving, shred or slice the chicken and stir gently into the tomato mixture.
6. Stir in fresh basil leaves just before serving, allowing them to wilt slightly.
7. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or alongside roasted vegetables. Garnish with Parmesan if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5–6 hours on low or 2.5–3.5 hours on high
Total time: About 5–6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)

Variations

• Add baby spinach in the last 30 minutes for extra greens
• Use bone-in chicken for even more flavor
• Stir in cooked orzo or farro just before serving for a heartier meal
• Add capers or olives for a briny Mediterranean twist
• Swap chicken for white fish (cook time will vary—add fish only in the last hour)

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep the chicken moist.

FAQs

Can I use grape tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Yes, they are very similar in flavor and texture and work just as well.

Is it better to use chicken breasts or thighs?

Both work, but thighs tend to stay more tender in the slow cooker.

Can I use dried basil?

Fresh basil adds the most flavor, but dried basil can be used in the cooking process if fresh isn’t available.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, it’s naturally dairy-free—just skip the optional Parmesan topping.

What can I serve this with?

It pairs well with pasta, rice, couscous, polenta, or a slice of crusty bread.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes, or mash some of the tomatoes to create a thicker consistency.

Can I prep this the night before?

Yes, assemble everything in the slow cooker insert and refrigerate. In the morning, just place the insert in the cooker and start.

What kind of wine is best for this recipe?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works well. You can also use broth instead.

Is this good for meal prep?

Yes, it stores and reheats beautifully and can be repurposed in wraps, salads, or pasta dishes.

Can I add cheese to this dish?

Yes, goat cheese or mozzarella pearls make a creamy, tangy addition.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes & Basil is a fresh, healthy, and satisfying meal that couldn’t be easier to make. With juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and tender chicken, it captures the essence of summer in every bite—no matter the season. Whether served over grains or with a side of bread, it’s a simple slow cooker win you’ll want to make again and again.

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