Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a comforting, flavorful, and effortlessly delicious one-pot meal that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, creamy sauce, and vibrant pesto. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, allowing you to let the slow cooker do the work while filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas. The creamy sauce coated over pasta with the rich, herby pesto makes every bite satisfying and indulgent.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s so simple yet incredibly flavorful. The slow cooker allows the chicken to become tender and juicy while blending perfectly with the creamy sauce and pesto. It’s a hands-off meal that delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the stress of constant cooking or stirring.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it combines the ease of slow-cooking with the richness of a creamy pasta. The combination of tender chicken, pasta, and pesto makes it satisfying and family-friendly. It’s perfect for busy nights, potlucks, or when you crave a comforting, flavorful meal.

Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Servings, and Nutrition

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 3–4 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high
Total Time: Approximately 3 hours 15 minutes – 4 hours 10 minutes

Servings: 4–6 servings
Calories: Approximately 450–500 calories per serving

Course: Main Course / Dinner / Pasta
Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

• 2 cups boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• ½ cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Cooking Directions

Place chicken, onion, garlic, chicken broth, and Italian herbs in the slow cooker. Cook until chicken is tender. Shred chicken, then add pasta, cream, and pesto. Stir in cheeses and cook until pasta is tender and creamy. Serve garnished with fresh herbs.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Spray the slow cooker with cooking spray or lightly grease it. Place chicken breasts or thighs in the slow cooker.

Step 2: Add chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, salt, black pepper, and dried Italian herbs if using. Stir gently to combine.

Step 3: Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours or on high for 2–3 hours, until chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 4: Remove chicken from the slow cooker and shred with two forks. Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker.

Step 5: Add pasta, heavy cream, and pesto sauce to the slow cooker. Stir to combine and ensure pasta is mostly submerged in liquid.

Step 6: Cover and cook on high for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and creamy.

Step 7: Stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 8: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve immediately.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve the Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley. Pair with a side of garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete Italian-inspired meal. This dish also works beautifully for family-style serving in a large bowl.

Recipe Tips

Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Stir pasta occasionally during the last cooking stage to prevent sticking. Adjust the amount of cream or broth depending on your preferred sauce consistency. Use gluten-free pasta if needed. For extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Variations in Detail

Swap chicken with cooked shrimp or turkey for a different protein. Add vegetables such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli for extra nutrition. Replace mozzarella with fontina or provolone cheese for a slightly different cheesy flavor. Use sun-dried tomato pesto or roasted red pepper pesto for a flavor twist. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or Greek yogurt for heavy cream.

Freezing and Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess. This dish is not ideal for freezing, as the pasta may become mushy after thawing.

Special Equipment Needed

• Slow cooker
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but increase the cooking time slightly and ensure it is fully thawed before shredding.

Can I make this dish without a slow cooker?
Yes, cook chicken and sauce in a saucepan and then combine with cooked pasta on the stovetop.

Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, store-bought pesto works perfectly, though homemade pesto enhances flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, store in the refrigerator and reheat in small portions for easy lunches or dinners.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta is a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy pasta, and fresh pesto in a convenient one-pot meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep, it delivers rich Italian-inspired flavors with minimal effort. This recipe is versatile, crowd-pleasing, and a must-have for anyone seeking a hearty, creamy, and delicious pasta dinner.