If you ever wished you could capture a basket of summer peaches, a handful of basil, and a heap of cozy comfort in just one pot, this is the recipe you need! My Easy Summer Slow Cooker creation is the ultimate fuss-free dinner that marries tender chicken, juicy peaches, and aromatic basil, all infused with a zippy splash of balsamic. It’s sweet, savory, and endlessly shareable — basically, summer celebration in every bite. You won’t believe how vibrant, easy, and absolutely unforgettable this dish turns out, all straight from your slow cooker.

n & Basil + More Easy Summer Slow Cooker Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s the beauty of this dish — the ingredient list is so simple, yet every element pulls its weight. These essentials build up layers of flavor, juicy textures, and summery color, making the n & Basil + More Easy Summer Slow Cooker something you’ll crave all season long.

Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs (2 pounds): Tender, juicy chicken is the foundation, and both breasts or thighs work beautifully depending on your preference for lean or richer meat.
Yellow onion (1 medium, very thinly sliced): These bring mild sweetness and depth that nestles right into the slow-cooked sauce.
Balsamic vinegar (2 tablespoons, plus more for peaches): That pop of tangy richness is what wakes up all the other flavors; don’t skip it!
Kosher salt (2 teaspoons): Essential for flavor, so your dish never tastes flat or bland.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): For a gentle warmth that hugs all the other ingredients together.
Peaches (6 medium, sliced, peeled or unpeeled): The crown jewel — juicy, summery peaches that sweeten and soften in the slow cooker.
Sugar (1 teaspoon): Just a touch, to enhance and balance those gorgeous peach flavors.
Fresh basil leaves (¼ cup, thinly sliced and tightly packed): The fragrant, garden-bright note that brings everything together with color and zip.
Butter (2 tablespoons): This luscious finishing touch melts in for just the right amount of richness.
Hot sauce (optional for serving): A little heat will set off the sweetness, if you like that kick!

How to Make Slow Cooker Summer Peach Chicken & Basil

Step 1: Layer Your Base of Summer Flavor

Start with the onions! Scatter those paper-thin slices down first into your 6-quart slow cooker. Sprinkle half a teaspoon of the kosher salt and all the garlic powder, then pour in 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar. Stir in the juicy slices from 4 of your peaches (save the rest for later). This layering is key for building a rich, almost jammy foundation that defines every bite of n & Basil + More Easy Summer Slow Cooker.

Step 2: Nestle the Chicken In

Take your chicken (either breasts or thighs, both are wonderful here) and season with 1 teaspoon of salt. Tuck those pieces right into your seasoned peach-onion mixture, making sure they’re coated and snuggled up with the fruit and onions. This will help all the flavors seep deeply into the chicken as it simmers away.

Step 3: Let Your Slow Cooker Work Its Magic

Put the lid on and set your slow cooker: low for 5 to 6 hours or high for 3 to 5 hours, depending on how soon you want dinner. While you wait, that irresistible mix of peaches, onions, and chicken will mingle, practically perfuming your kitchen. This is the true genius of n & Basil + More Easy Summer Slow Cooker recipes — hands-off, all-day flavor!

Step 4: Macerate the Remaining Peaches

While the chicken cooks, dice up the remaining two peaches and toss them into a bowl. Sprinkle with the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt, a couple teaspoons balsamic vinegar, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Give it a good stir, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. These marinated peaches will add an extra layer of bright, fresh flavor to the finished n & Basil + More Easy Summer Slow Cooker.

Step 5: Shred and Finish with Butter and Basil

When the chicken is fully cooked (it should shred easily with two forks), turn off the slow cooker and move the chicken out to a cutting board. Shred the meat, then drain off about half of the liquid from the slow cooker and discard. Return the chicken back to the pot, toss in the butter and all the marinated peaches you set aside earlier. Gently stir so the butter melts and everything is glossy and delicious, then shower with your thinly sliced fresh basil. This final assembly is what makes n & Basil + More Easy Summer Slow Cooker sing with flavor!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Summer Peach Chicken & Basil

Garnishes

A final sprinkle of basil right before serving brings the freshest aromatic note, while an extra drizzle of balsamic vinegar gives a bold, tangy gloss to each portion. If you enjoy a subtle heat, a dash or two of hot sauce does wonders. For a pop of color and a bright, herbal finish, consider a shower of additional fresh basil or even some finely sliced green onions.

Side Dishes

This n & Basil + More Easy Summer Slow Cooker meal shines with simple accompaniments — a bowl of garlic rice, crusty toasted bread, or a fresh arugula salad with cherry tomatoes will complement every bite. For an extra summery touch, try serving it with roasted fingerling potatoes or steamed green beans tossed in olive oil.

Creative Ways to Present

Pile the peachy chicken high over creamy polenta for comfort food magic, or spoon it into toasted buns for next-level summer sliders. You could even add a dollop to a warm grain bowl with farro and baby greens. For a party, serve the n & Basil + More Easy Summer Slow Cooker in lettuce cups for a light, flavor-packed appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your leftovers cool fully, then scoop the chicken and peaches into an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, your n & Basil + More Easy Summer Slow Cooker will keep beautifully for up to four days, making it perfect for meal prep or spontaneous lunches.

Freezing

For longer storage, transfer cooled portions to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. Freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl until steaming, or gently reheat a larger amount in a saucepan on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the mixture looks a little dry, add a splash of extra balsamic or a pat of butter to restore its sauciness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh?

Absolutely! If fresh peaches aren’t available, frozen (thawed and drained) peaches make a great substitute for n & Basil + More Easy Summer Slow Cooker. The flavor and texture will still be delicious, just be sure to watch the moisture level in your slow cooker.

What’s the best chicken to use for this recipe?

Both boneless skinless chicken breasts and thighs work beautifully. Thighs add a bit more richness and never dry out, but breasts will be lighter if you prefer. Pick your favorite for the perfect n & Basil + More Easy Summer Slow Cooker.

Do I need to peel the peaches?

It’s completely up to you! Peeling makes the sauce smoother, but leaving the peels adds a rustic texture, extra color, and even a nutritional boost. For n & Basil + More Easy Summer Slow Cooker, I love a mix of both.

How can I make this dish spicier?

A dash or two of your favorite hot sauce right before serving brightens up the sweet-peachy flavor and adds a saucy little kick. For extra spice, add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper while the chicken cooks.

Can I make this n & Basil + More Easy Summer Slow Cooker meal vegan?

Definitely! Substitute the chicken with drained canned chickpeas or jackfruit, and swap the butter for a plant-based version. You’ll still capture all the sunny peach and basil flavors in every delicious bite.

Final Thoughts

If you’re hunting for a dish that’s as easy as it is unforgettable, this n & Basil + More Easy Summer Slow Cooker is it! Every time I make it, I’m blown away by how the peaches, basil, and balsamic create something truly special. Give it a try — you’ll want to put it on repeat all summer long!

Slow Cooker Summer Peach Chicken & Basil

★★★★★

4.8 from 12 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes (on low) or 3 hours 15 minutes (on high)
Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Slow Cooker Summer Peach Chicken & Basil recipe is a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors, perfect for a light and fresh summer meal. The tender chicken cooks slowly with juicy peaches, onions, and aromatic basil, creating a deliciously unique dish.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, or thighs
1 medium yellow onion, very thinly sliced
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (plus more for marinating the peaches)
2 teaspoons kosher salt

For the Peaches:

6 medium peaches, sliced (peeled or unpeeled)
1 teaspoon sugar
¼ cup tightly packed basil leaves, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons butter

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Place the sliced onions in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of the salt, garlic powder, and 2 tablespoons vinegar. Stir in peach slices from 4 peaches.
Cook the Chicken: Sprinkle the chicken with 1 teaspoon salt, then nestle into the peach-onion mixture, ensuring they are covered. Cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-5 hours until chicken is cooked through.
Prepare the Peaches: Dice the remaining peaches and marinate with salt, balsamic vinegar, and sugar. Set aside.
Finish the Dish: Shred or dice the cooked chicken. Drain half the liquid from the slow cooker, then add chicken, butter, and marinated peaches. Stir to combine.