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Crockpot Italian Chicken Recipe

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4.1 from 6 reviews

This Crockpot Italian Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts or thighs slow-cooked in a rich and flavorful tomato-balsamic sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and onions. Topped with melted mozzarella and fresh basil, it makes a comforting and effortless meal perfect for busy weeknights.

  • Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

Tomato-Balsamic Sauce

  • 1 can diced tomatoes (14 ounces)
  • ½ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 small red onion, diced

Toppings

  • Shredded mozzarella cheese for serving
  • Thinly sliced fresh basil for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil in the bottom of a 4-quart or larger slow cooker to prevent sticking and add flavor.
  2. Season the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs on top of the olive oil in the slow cooker. Sprinkle evenly with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to season the meat thoroughly.
  3. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, bay leaf, dried basil, and diced red onion. Stir well to evenly mix the flavorful components.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Pour the tomato-balsamic mixture over the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and cook on low heat. For chicken breasts, cook approximately 1½ to 2½ hours; for thighs, cook 4 to 5 hours. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 155°F and no longer be pink. The temperature will continue to rise during resting without overcooking.
  5. Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes while keeping the slow cooker on to maintain the warmth of the sauce.
  6. Serve: Uncover the chicken, then use a slotted spoon to generously ladle the tomato-balsamic sauce over it. Top each serving with shredded mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of freshly sliced basil. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting flavors.

Notes

  • Adjust cooking times based on your slow cooker’s heat settings and size.
  • Chicken is safe to eat at 165°F; the recipe uses 155°F with resting to prevent dryness.
  • Use chicken thighs for richer flavor and breasts for leaner meat.
  • Fresh basil and mozzarella cheese add freshness and creaminess—feel free to adjust quantities to taste.
  • Leftover sauce can be saved and reheated for another meal.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://dishiary.com/crockpot-italian-chicken-recipe/