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Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes

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Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes

Description

Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes is a simple yet elegant dinner that delivers incredible flavour with very little effort. Tender chicken slowly cooks in a rich blend of balsamic vinegar, garlic, herbs, and seasonings while juicy cherry tomatoes soften and release their natural sweetness into the sauce. As the chicken becomes perfectly tender, it absorbs the savoury, slightly tangy balsamic glaze, creating a meal that’s both comforting and restaurant-quality. The tomatoes burst during cooking, adding freshness and creating a silky sauce that coats every bite of chicken beautifully. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, family dinners, or entertaining guests because the slow cooker does all the work while you go about your day. Serve it over mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, creamy polenta, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Finish with an extra drizzle of balsamic glaze and fresh basil for a beautiful presentation and even more flavour. The leftovers are just as delicious the next day, making this recipe ideal for lunches and easy reheated dinners. If you’re looking for a wholesome, flavour-packed chicken recipe that’s both easy and impressive, this Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes is sure to become a regular favourite in your home.

Ingredients For the Chicken

  • 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (plus extra for drizzling)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Optional Garnish

  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Chopped parsley
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Extra balsamic glaze

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil.
  2. Place the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.
  3. Scatter the chopped onion and minced garlic evenly over the chicken.
  4. Add the cherry tomatoes around and over the chicken.
  5. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, balsamic glaze, olive oil, Italian seasoning, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  6. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the chicken and tomatoes.
  7. Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
  8. Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks, then return it to the slow cooker.
  9. Stir everything together so the shredded chicken is coated in the rich balsamic sauce and softened tomatoes.
  10. Let the chicken cook for another 10–15 minutes on LOW to absorb even more flavour.
  11. Drizzle additional balsamic glaze over the top before serving.
  12. Garnish with fresh basil, parsley, or Parmesan cheese and serve warm.

Tips

  • Chicken thighs can be substituted for extra juicy, tender meat.
  • Use high-quality balsamic vinegar for the richest flavour.
  • Add sliced mushrooms or baby spinach during the last 30 minutes for extra vegetables.
  • Shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker to soak up every bit of sauce.
  • Serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or toasted bread to enjoy the delicious sauce.
  • Add crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a little heat.

Notes

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze cooled portions for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
  • Fresh basil should always be added just before serving for the best flavour.
  • The sauce naturally thickens as it cools.

Q&A

Can I use frozen chicken?
For best results and food safety, thaw the chicken completely before placing it in the slow cooker.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble everything in the slow cooker insert the night before, refrigerate, and begin cooking the next day.

What should I serve with this chicken?
Mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, rice, creamy polenta, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or steamed green beans all pair beautifully.

Can I make the sauce thicker?
Yes. Remove the lid during the last 20 minutes of cooking or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) until the sauce reaches your preferred consistency.

Servings

  • Serves: 6

Nutrition (Approx. Per Serving)

  • Calories: 310
  • Protein: 38g
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fat: 13g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.5g
  • Fibre: 1g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 560mg

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