If you’ve been searching for a comforting, flavor-packed dinner that requires minimal effort, you are going to love this Slow-Cooker Italian Chicken Recipe. It combines tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato sauce infused with garlic, Italian herbs, and fresh basil, all cooked low and slow to develop those deep, mouthwatering flavors. Whether you’re new to slow cooker meals or a seasoned pro, this dish is a perfect weeknight solution that feels like a warm hug after a busy day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Slow-Cooker Italian Chicken Recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are, but each one plays a vital role in layering flavor, adding texture, and brightening the dish. From aromatic garlic to vibrant fresh basil, these essentials transform simple chicken into a hearty, satisfying meal.
- 4-6 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Choose thighs for extra juiciness or breasts for leaner meat; both work wonderfully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for searing): Adds a golden crust and extra depth when browning the chicken before slow cooking.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with rich, aromatic flavor that lifts every bite.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes: The base of our sauce, offering tangy sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor and thickens the sauce to a luscious consistency.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that brings that unmistakable Italian flair.
- 1 medium red onion, sliced: Adds sweetness and a bit of bite as it cooks down tender.
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional): For a pop of color and subtle sweetness, but it’s perfectly fine to skip if you prefer.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring everything together.
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped: Stirred in at the end for fresh herbal brightness and a lovely pop of green.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, for topping (optional): A savory finishing touch that adds a little indulgence.
How to Make Slow-Cooker Italian Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken (Optional But Worth It)
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet and giving the chicken thighs or breasts a quick sear for 2 to 3 minutes per side. This isn’t mandatory, but browning the meat adds a beautiful flavor and color that enriches the final dish.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Place the browned (or raw) chicken in the slow cooker. Sprinkle the minced garlic, sliced onion, and diced bell pepper over the top. Then, add the Italian seasoning, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to bring all those flavors to life.
Step 3: Let the Slow Cooker Work Its Magic
Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 6 to 7 hours, or high for 3 to 4 hours. During this time, the chicken becomes incredibly tender and infused with all those savory ingredients, making it super easy to shred.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken and Combine
Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it and use two forks to shred it. Return the shredded chicken to the sauce and stir everything together so the meat soaks up all those delicious juices.
Step 5: Add Fresh Basil and Final Seasoning
Stir in the chopped fresh basil for a bright herbal note that lifts the whole dish. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. This final step transforms the sauce from good to unforgettable.
How to Serve Slow-Cooker Italian Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top is like the cherry on an Italian-inspired sundae, adding a salty richness that pairs perfectly with the fresh basil. You can also add a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or some crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
Side Dishes
This Slow-Cooker Italian Chicken Recipe is incredibly versatile when it comes to sides. Serve it over your favorite pasta, creamy polenta, or even a bed of fluffy rice to soak up all that tomato goodness. For a lighter option, pair it with steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking outside the box is half the fun. Try stuffing the shredded chicken into warm sandwich rolls with provolone and sautéed greens or use it as a hearty topping for a baked potato. It even makes a delicious filling for stuffed peppers or a savory flatbread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Slow-Cooker Italian Chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen even more, making the next meal just as satisfying.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Portion the chicken and sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken breasts or thighs will work fine. Just watch the cooking time closely, as boneless cuts may cook a bit faster and can dry out if overcooked.
Is it necessary to sear the chicken before slow cooking?
Searing is optional but highly recommended because it adds depth of flavor and color. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and still end up with a delicious dish.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot by using the sauté function for browning and then pressure cooking for about 15 minutes. Just be sure to use natural release for the best texture.
What can I substitute for Italian seasoning?
If you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand, you can mix dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary in equal parts to create a similar flavor profile.
How do I make this dish more spicy?
Feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes when layering the ingredients or sprinkle some on top at serving. Fresh diced jalapeños also make a nice spicy addition!
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re feeding family or whipping up something special just for yourself, this Slow-Cooker Italian Chicken Recipe is a total game changer. It’s simple enough to throw together on a busy morning and rewarding enough to feel like a special meal by dinnertime. Dive in and make it your new favorite comfort food—trust me, your slow cooker will thank you!
Print
Slow-Cooker Italian Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes to 7 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Slow-Cooker Italian Chicken is a flavorful and comforting dish featuring tender, shredded chicken cooked in a rich tomato sauce infused with Italian herbs, garlic, and fresh basil. Perfect for an easy weeknight meal, this recipe uses a slow cooker to develop deep flavors with minimal effort and can be served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4–6 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for searing)
Vegetables & Seasonings
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium red onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
Tomato Sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Finishing Touches
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Optional Searing: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust. This helps to enhance the flavor but can be skipped if short on time.
- Prepare Slow Cooker: Place the chicken pieces in the slow cooker. Add minced garlic, sliced red onion, diced bell pepper (if using), Italian seasoning, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste on top of the chicken. Season everything with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker with the lid. Cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender enough to shred easily with a fork.
- Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken pieces from the slow cooker and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker and stir well to mix with the tomato sauce.
- Add Basil and Serve: Stir freshly chopped basil into the chicken and sauce mixture. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread, and optionally top with grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
Notes
- Searing the chicken is optional but recommended for enhanced flavor and color.
- Bone-in chicken adds more flavor but can be substituted with boneless if preferred.
- The recipe is versatile; bell pepper can be omitted or substituted with other vegetables such as mushrooms or zucchini.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.
