Slow Cooker Pesto Chicken
This Slow Cooker Pesto Chicken is an easy, flavorful meal made with tender chicken breasts slow-cooked in a rich basil pesto sauce with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and juicy cherry tomatoes. Finished with fresh mozzarella and basil, this creamy, herb-packed dish is perfect served over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or with roasted vegetables. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s an ideal recipe for busy weeknights and meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy dump-and-go slow cooker recipe
Tender, juicy chicken every time
Rich basil pesto flavor
High in protein
Great for meal prep
Family-friendly
Naturally gluten-free (served without pasta)
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4–5 hours on Low or 2–3 hours on High
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
For the Chicken
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
¾ cup basil pesto
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon salt (adjust depending on the saltiness of your pesto)
Add Near the End
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or fresh mozzarella pearls)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Optional Garnishes
Extra Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves
Toasted pine nuts
Crushed red pepper flakes
Lemon wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or a little olive oil.
Place the chicken in a single layer.
Step 2: Add the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together:
Basil pesto
Chicken broth
Garlic
Italian seasoning
Onion powder
Black pepper
Salt
Pour the mixture evenly over the chicken.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover and cook:
Low: 4–5 hours
High: 2–3 hours
Cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is fork-tender.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
About 15 minutes before serving, add:
Cherry tomatoes
Parmesan cheese
Mozzarella cheese
Cover again and cook until the cheese has melted and the tomatoes are slightly softened.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh basil and garnish with:
Extra Parmesan
Toasted pine nuts
Crushed red pepper flakes
Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Serving Suggestions
Serve over:
- Pasta (penne, fettuccine, or linguine)
- Orzo
- White or brown rice
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Creamy polenta
- Zucchini noodles
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed broccoli
- Cauliflower rice
- Crusty bread
Delicious Variations
Creamy Pesto Chicken
Stir in ½ cup softened cream cheese or ½ cup heavy cream during the last 20 minutes of cooking.
Spinach Pesto Chicken
Add 2 cups fresh baby spinach during the last 10 minutes until wilted.
Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Chicken
Mix in ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes for extra Mediterranean flavor.
Mushroom Pesto Chicken
Add 8 ounces sliced mushrooms during the last hour of cooking.
Pesto Chicken & White Beans
Stir in 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed, during the final 30 minutes for extra protein and fiber.
Notes & Tips
Recipe Notes
Chicken thighs stay extra juicy and are less likely to overcook.
Use refrigerated basil pesto for the freshest flavor.
Add delicate ingredients like tomatoes and mozzarella near the end so they maintain their texture.
Expert Tips
Avoid overcooking chicken breasts, as they can become dry.
If the sauce is thinner than you’d like, remove the lid during the last 15–20 minutes of cooking to allow it to reduce slightly.
For a richer sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of mascarpone cheese before serving.
Leftovers are delicious shredded and used in sandwiches, wraps, or pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken?
For food safety, it’s best to thaw chicken completely before placing it in the slow cooker.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Freeze cooled chicken and sauce in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What pesto works best?
Traditional basil pesto works beautifully, but spinach pesto, arugula pesto, or kale pesto are also excellent options.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 390
Protein: 42g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 120mg
Sodium: 510mg
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Pesto Chicken is a simple yet elegant meal that delivers bold Italian-inspired flavors with minimal effort. Tender chicken, fragrant basil pesto, melted mozzarella, Parmesan, and sweet cherry tomatoes come together in a rich, savory dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or entertaining guests.