From time to time, I like to make classic tomato-based dishes, but this creamy version in the crockpot is something special and satisfying. It’s rich, flavorful, and incredibly tender, with a sauce that clings perfectly to each piece of chicken.  If you are looking for a cozy, flavorful dinner that practically cooks itself, the Crockpot Creamy Tomato Chicken is exactly what you need. 

This recipe brings together tender chicken, rich tomato sauce, and a touch of cream, creating a dish that is hearty, comforting, and full of flavor. The slow cooker does all the work, making it perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.What I love most is how easy it is to prepare—just add the ingredients and let the crockpot work its magic while I focus on other things in my day.

I have tried many chicken recipes over the years, but this one stands out because I use simple pantry ingredients, and it comes together in under 15 minutes of prep. Always, I make sure to add a little extra Parmesan at the end for creaminess and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color. It makes dinner feel special without extra effort.

You can serve this creamy tomato chicken over fluffy rice, some buttered pasta, or even mashed potatoes. Also, it pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a crisp green salad, or warm crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.

Its Perfect For:

• Weeknight dinners when you need something fast and comforting
• Meal prep because it keeps well and reheats beautifully
• Family gatherings where everyone loves creamy, cheesy flavors
• Busy days when you want a hands-off cooking method
• Cozy winter evenings for a warm and hearty meal

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Crockpot or slow cooker (4-6 quart works best)
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Medium mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small skillet (optional, for sautéing onions and garlic)
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Serving dish or plates for presentation

How to Make Crockpot Creamy Tomato Chicken

Step 1

Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Lightly season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This will help the chicken absorb the flavors of the sauce while keeping it juicy.

Step 2

Sauté aromatics (optional, for extra flavor): In a small skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden. This step adds depth to the sauce but can be skipped if you’re short on time.

Step 3

Combine in crockpot: Place the chicken in the bottom of your crockpot. Pour diced tomatoes and tomato sauce over the chicken. Add the sautéed onions and garlic (or raw if skipping sautéing), dried basil, and oregano. Stir gently to combine the flavors without disturbing the chicken too much.

Step 4

Cook slowly: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through. The slow cooking allows the tomatoes to break down into a rich, flavorful sauce that coats the chicken perfectly.

Step 5

Add creaminess: About 15-20 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese (if using). Mix gently to create a creamy, velvety sauce. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6

Serve: Carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot and place on a serving dish. Pour the creamy tomato sauce over the top, and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for color and freshness. Serve hot with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or a warm crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.

Tips for Crockpot Creamy Tomato Chicken

• Use chicken thighs or breasts – Thighs stay tender and juicy, while breasts are leaner. Either works; just adjust cooking time for larger pieces.
• Don’t skip the cream – Adding heavy cream at the end makes the sauce silky. Stir gently to avoid curdling.
• Season well early – Salt, pepper, paprika, and herbs at the start enhance flavor. The slow cooker allows seasoning to penetrate.
• Sauté aromatics if you can – Cooking onions and garlic briefly before adding them deepens the sauce. It’s optional but makes a difference.
• Avoid overfilling the crockpot – Leave some space so heat circulates evenly, ensuring the chicken cooks perfectly.
• Check the chicken before serving – It should be tender and fully cooked. Thicker pieces may need extra 10–15 minutes.
• Add cheese at the end – Parmesan melts into the sauce beautifully without losing its flavor. Sprinkle extra on top for garnish.

Optional Ingredients

• Red pepper flakes for a little heat
• Sun-dried tomatoes for extra richness
• Mushrooms for an earthy flavor
• Spinach or kale for added greens
• Mozzarella for extra cheesy goodness
• White wine in the sauce for a subtle tang

How to Serve Crockpot Creamy Tomato Chicken

I love to serve this chicken hot right from the crockpot, spooning the creamy tomato sauce generously over each piece. The sauce is rich, velvety, and perfectly coats the chicken, making every bite flavorful. I usually sprinkle a little fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness—it makes the dish feel elegant even on a regular weeknight.

I also enjoy serving it over a bed of pasta or rice. The starch absorbs all the sauce, making each bite creamy and satisfying. Sometimes I prepare mashed potatoes as a base, and the combination of soft, buttery potatoes and the flavorful sauce is absolutely irresistible. For a lighter option, quinoa or couscous works beautifully too.

Finally, I like to round out the meal with some vegetables. Roasted broccoli, green beans, or a crisp salad balances the richness of the sauce. Occasionally, I’ll add a side of garlic bread or warm crusty rolls—perfect for soaking up every last drop of that creamy tomato goodness. The presentation and the extra touches make this meal feel special and comforting at the same time.

Is Crockpot Creamy Tomato Chicken Healthy?

This dish is surprisingly balanced. Chicken provides lean protein, tomatoes are rich in vitamins, and a small amount of cream adds indulgence without being overly heavy. Using chicken breasts makes it leaner, while thighs keep it juicy and satisfying.

You can adjust the cream to reduce calories, or add extra vegetables to increase fiber and nutrients. Overall, it’s a hearty, home-cooked meal that feels indulgent but can be part of a healthy diet with small adjustments.

Variations and Substitutions

• Creamy Pesto Chicken – Replace the tomato sauce with a mixture of pesto and cream. Adds fresh, herby flavor, perfect with pasta.
• Crockpot Italian Chicken – Add Italian seasoning, mushrooms, and bell peppers. Serve over spaghetti for an Italian twist.
• Spicy Tomato Chicken – Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce. Perfect if you like a little heat without changing the creamy texture.
• Cheesy Chicken Bake – Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan before serving. Bakes nicely in the oven for a bubbly finish.
• Chicken with Vegetables – Add zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers during the last hour. Makes it more colorful and nutritious.
• Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan – Top with marinara and mozzarella. Serve with pasta for a classic Italian dish.
• Mediterranean Style – Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and capers. Serve with couscous for a Mediterranean twist.
• Low-Carb Version – Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Keeps it creamy but reduces carbs for a light meal.

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure the sauce is fully cooled before sealing to maintain freshness. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months, just defrost in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce smooth. You can also microwave individual portions, covering loosely to prevent splatter, and stirring halfway for even heating. Add a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Creamy Tomato Chicken

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but increase cooking time by 30–45 minutes on low. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Frozen chicken may release extra water, so taste and adjust the sauce seasonings before serving.

Can I skip the cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be less silky. For a lighter version, use milk, half-and-half, or yogurt at the end. Adding some cheese can restore creaminess even if you skip cream entirely.

Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely, but don’t overfill the crockpot—it can affect cooking time and texture. You may need to stir gently and add a few extra minutes to ensure everything cooks evenly.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes, assemble all ingredients in the crockpot insert and refrigerate overnight. Cook the next day on low or high, adjusting time as needed. This makes it perfect for busy weekdays or family dinners.

Crockpot Creamy Tomato Chicken Recipe

Recipe by Maria MeyerCourse: Main CourseCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

4

hours

Make dinner effortless with this Crockpot Creamy Tomato Chicken recipe! Tender chicken cooked in a rich, creamy tomato sauce, perfect for weeknights, family meals, or cozy dinners.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

• 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)

• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions

• Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Lightly season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This will help the chicken absorb the flavors of the sauce while keeping it juicy.
• Sauté aromatics (optional, for extra flavor): In a small skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden. This step adds depth to the sauce but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
• Combine in crockpot: Place the chicken in the bottom of your crockpot. Pour diced tomatoes and tomato sauce over the chicken. Add the sautéed onions and garlic (or raw if skipping sautéing), dried basil, and oregano. Stir gently to combine the flavors without disturbing the chicken too much.
• Cook slowly: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through. The slow cooking allows the tomatoes to break down into a rich, flavorful sauce that coats the chicken perfectly.
• Add creaminess: About 15-20 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese (if using). Mix gently to create a creamy, velvety sauce. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
• Serve: Carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot and place on a serving dish. Pour the creamy tomato sauce over the top, and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for color and freshness. Serve hot with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or a warm crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.