Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
Savor the rich and comforting flavors of this Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta, a simple yet indulgent meal perfect for busy days! Tender chicken slow-cooked to perfection is combined with a creamy pesto sauce and tossed with hearty pasta for a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
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
Instructions
- 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.