Step-by-Step Instructions
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Layer the Base: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
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Add the Sauce: Pour the marinara or crushed tomatoes over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-covered.
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Slow Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 4–6 hours (or High for 2–3 hours) until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
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Make it Creamy: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream. This will turn the sauce into the beautiful orange-pink color seen in the photo.
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The Cheesy Finish: Top the chicken with the shredded mozzarella. Cover the slow cooker for another 5–10 minutes until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly.
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Garnish: Just before serving, top with a generous handful of fresh basil leaves and a crack of fresh black pepper.
FAQ & Tips
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Can I use chicken thighs? Yes! Thighs are even more forgiving in the slow cooker and will result in an even juicier texture.
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Is my sauce too thin? If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can stir in 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
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Fresh vs. Dried Basil: Always use fresh basil for the topping. Dried basil can be added to the sauce during cooking, but it won’t provide the same bright flavor as a garnish.
Storage Tips
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Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken as it cools.
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Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce back to its original consistency.
Variations
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The Spicy Version: Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a “Penne alla Vecchia Bettola” inspired heat.
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Veggie Boost: Stir in a few handfuls of fresh baby spinach at the same time you add the cream for added nutrients.
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Low-Carb: Serve this as is with a side of roasted zucchini or over cauliflower rice to keep the meal keto-friendly.
How to Serve
This chicken is best served over a bed of Al dente pasta (like penne or fettuccine) or alongside a slice of Slow Cooker Cheddar Garlic Bread to soak up every drop of the tomato basil sauce. For a lighter option, it pairs beautifully with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon and olive oil.
