Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simplicity: With just two main ingredients—chicken and pesto—this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare.
- Versatility: The cooked chicken can be served in various ways, such as over pasta, alongside vegetables, or in sandwiches.
- Health Benefits: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish aligns with low-carb and keto-friendly diets.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1 ½ inches thick)
- Pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Add Pesto: Pour the pesto sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low heat for 5-6 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the chicken whole or shredded, paired with your choice of sides.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 5-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
Variations
- Cheesy Pesto Chicken: Add shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese during the last 15 minutes of cooking for a creamy texture.
- Pesto Chicken Pasta: After cooking, shred the chicken and mix it with cooked pasta for a hearty meal.
- Vegetable Medley: Incorporate vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers into the slow cooker for added nutrients and flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
FAQs
What type of pesto is best for this recipe?
Both store-bought and homemade pesto work well. Ensure the pesto is of good quality for optimal flavor.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used and may result in a juicier texture.
Do I need to add extra liquid to the slow cooker?
No additional liquid is necessary; the chicken and pesto provide sufficient moisture.
How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I cook this on high heat to reduce cooking time?
Yes, cooking on high for 2-3 hours is effective, but low heat for 5-6 hours may yield more tender results.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Absolutely, it stores well and can be used in various dishes throughout the week.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Ensure the pesto used does not contain cheese, or make a dairy-free pesto at home.
What sides pair well with pesto chicken?
Consider serving with pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Can I add potatoes to the slow cooker with the chicken?
Yes, adding small potatoes can create a more filling meal.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Cooking on low heat and ensuring the slow cooker lid remains closed during cooking helps retain moisture.
Conclusion
Crockpot Pesto Chicken is a versatile and straightforward recipe that delivers rich flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re a busy professional or a home cook seeking an easy meal, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
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Crockpot Pesto Chicken
- Total Time: 5-6 hours
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crockpot Pesto Chicken is a flavorful and effortless slow-cooked dish featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in rich basil pesto. Perfect for busy weeknights, this low-carb and keto-friendly recipe requires minimal prep and delivers maximum taste. Serve it over pasta, with roasted vegetables, or in sandwiches for a versatile meal option.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ inches thick)
- 1 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- Add Pesto: Pour the pesto sauce over the chicken, ensuring an even coating.
- Slow Cook:
- Cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Serve: Enjoy the chicken whole or shredded, paired with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Use homemade pesto for fresher flavors.
- For a creamier texture, add shredded mozzarella or parmesan in the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
