This recipe is ideal for anyone who wants a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the chicken to become incredibly tender while absorbing the savory tomato flavors. It’s versatile, budget-friendly, and pairs well with many sides like rice, pasta, or crusty bread. Plus, it uses simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
chicken thighs or chicken breasts canned crushed tomatoes tomato paste onion, chopped garlic cloves, minced olive oil dried oregano dried basil salt black pepper paprika chicken broth optional: red pepper flakes for heat fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Directions
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and lightly sauté the chopped onion and garlic until fragrant.
Place the chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add the sautéed onion and garlic on top of the chicken.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken broth.
Season with oregano, basil, salt, pepper, paprika, and optional red pepper flakes.
Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 servings Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 6–7 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high Total time: approximately 6–7 hours
Variations
You can swap chicken thighs for breasts depending on your preference. Add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition. For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a bit of cream cheese near the end of cooking. If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. You can also freeze this dish for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking and food safety.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
It is naturally dairy-free unless you add cream or cheese.
What cut of chicken works best?
Chicken thighs are more flavorful and stay juicy, but breasts work well too.
Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes, cook on high for 3–4 hours instead of 6–7 hours on low.
How do I thicken the sauce?
You can remove the lid for the last 30 minutes or stir in a cornstarch slurry.
Can I add pasta directly to the slow cooker?
It’s better to cook pasta separately and serve the chicken over it.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all your ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Can I add cheese?
Yes, parmesan or mozzarella makes a great addition when serving.
What sides go well with this dish?
Rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread are all excellent choices.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to handle the extra volume.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Tomato Chicken is a simple yet flavorful meal that fits perfectly into a busy lifestyle. With minimal prep and rich, comforting flavors, it’s a reliable go-to recipe that can be easily customized to suit your taste. Whether served over pasta or alongside fresh bread, it’s a dish the whole family will enjoy.
Slow Cooker Tomato Chicken is an easy and comforting recipe featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for busy days, this slow cooker tomato chicken delivers bold flavors with minimal effort and simple pantry ingredients.
Ingredients
4 chicken thighs or chicken breasts
1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
½ cup chicken broth
Optional: ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
Place the chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add the sautéed onion and garlic over the chicken.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken broth.
Season with oregano, basil, salt, pepper, paprika, and optional red pepper flakes.
Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
Notes
Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, but breasts work well for a leaner option.For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking.You can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.For a creamy variation, stir in cream or cream cheese near the end.
