Pesto chicken, a beloved Italian-inspired dish, has gained immense popularity for its rich flavors and effortless preparation. This recipe is a modern twist on the classic, featuring the convenience of a slow cooker. Pesto, a delightful green sauce traditionally made with basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil, adds a burst of flavor to succulent chicken. The slow cooker method allows the chicken to absorb all the delightful flavors, resulting in a mouthwatering meal.
Delicious Slow Cooker Pesto Chicken Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can of chicken broth (about 1 cup or 240ml)
- 2 cups of pesto sauce
- 1 tablespoon of Italian mix seasoning
Ingredient Details:
- Chicken: Choose fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best taste and texture.
- Chicken Broth: A can of chicken broth provides a savory base for your dish. You can use homemade broth as an alternative.
- Pesto Sauce: Pesto is a vibrant sauce made from fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. You can make your own or use a quality store-bought pesto.
- Italian Mix Seasoning: This seasoning blend adds an authentic Italian flavor to the dish. It typically includes herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, and garlic.
Expert Tips:
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper before placing it in the slow cooker for enhanced flavor.
- Customize the pesto by adding extra ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or roasted red peppers for a unique twist.
- Serve the chicken with cooked pasta or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Directions:
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Pour in the can of chicken broth to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
- Add 2 cups of pesto sauce, evenly distributing it over the chicken.
- Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of Italian mix seasoning to infuse the dish with Italian flavors.
- Gently mix the ingredients in the slow cooker to ensure even coating.
- Cook on the low setting for 4-6 hours. This slow cooking time allows the chicken to become tender and absorb all the delicious pesto flavors.
Storage and Leftovers:
- Store any leftover pesto chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little extra pesto or chicken broth to refresh the flavors.
FAQs:
Q1: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe? A1: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this slow cooker recipe, you can use bone-in chicken with adjusted cooking times.
Q2: What can I serve with pesto chicken? A2: Pesto chicken pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Q3: Can I freeze pesto chicken for later? A3: Yes, you can freeze pesto chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Alternate Names:
- Slow Cooker Pesto Chicken
- Pesto-infused Crock Pot Chicken
- Italian Pesto Chicken
Enjoy this delightful slow cooker pesto chicken, and savor the flavors of Italy in the comfort of your own home. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a taste of Italian cuisine without the fuss.