The aroma of Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Pasta wafts through the air, teasing your senses with hints of basil, garlic, and melted cheese. Each bite promises a creamy, savory explosion that dances on your palate and makes you wonder why you haven’t made this dish sooner. savory garlic tomato chicken with mozzarella Imagine coming home after a long day to find dinner ready, bubbling away in your slow cooker, waiting to envelop you in its warm embrace.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Pasta
- How to Make Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Pasta
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs:
- What is Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Pasta?
- How do I make Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Pasta?
- Can I customize the ingredients in this recipe?
- Is Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Pasta suitable for leftovers?
- Conclusion for Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Pasta:
- 📖 Recipe Card
This recipe isn’t just about convenience; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. Picture laughter shared over plates piled high with cheesy pasta goodness, as stories unfold and everyone fights for the last piece. Whether it’s a cozy family night or a gathering with friends, this dish sets the scene for connection and joy. Get ready to experience an unforgettable flavor adventure that will leave everyone clamoring for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The slow cooker does all the hard work while you kick back and relax.
- Enjoy a flavor-packed meal that’s rich in cheesy goodness and aromatic herbs.
- The vibrant colors of the dish make it a feast for both the eyes and stomach.
- Perfect for busy weeknights yet fancy enough for entertaining guests!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Pasta
For more inspiration, check out this Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but feel free to adjust based on your crowd size.
- Pesto Sauce: Store-bought or homemade, this sauce adds tons of flavor without much effort.
- Fresh Mozzarella Cheese: Opt for soft mozzarella balls that ooze when melted; it’s pure bliss!
- Pasta: Choose any pasta shape you love; penne or fusilli works great for holding onto that creamy sauce.
- Chicken Broth: This keeps everything moist and adds depth to the flavors.
- Fresh Basil: A handful of fresh basil leaves brings brightness and freshness to the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Pasta
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken
Start by placing your boneless skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth to keep them juicy as they cook.
Step 2: Add the Pesto
Spoon pesto sauce generously over the chicken. It’s like giving them a spa treatment — they’ll emerge tender and flavorful!
Step 3: Cook Low and Slow
Cover the slow cooker and set it on low heat for about six hours or until the chicken is cooked through and shreds easily with a fork.
Step 4: Cook Your Pasta
About half an hour before serving, boil water in a pot and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain it well!
Step 5: Combine Everything
Once done cooking, shred the chicken right in the slow cooker using two forks. Stir in cooked pasta until every noodle gets coated in that luscious pesto.
Step 6: Add Cheese
Finally, sprinkle fresh mozzarella over the top of your creation. Let it melt into gooey perfection before garnishing with fresh basil leaves.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy every cheesy bite of this incredible Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Pasta!
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then toss in your pasta while the sauce simmers in the slow cooker. This sequence ensures everything cooks evenly, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that will make your taste buds dance.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or beef, or throw in some roasted vegetables for extra nutrition. Experiment with different pestos, such as sun-dried tomato or spinach, to keep things exciting each time you whip up this dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth to keep the pasta moist and prevent it from drying out in the microwave.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly without being dry.
- Always taste your sauce before serving; adjust seasoning as needed for maximum flavor.
- Don’t skip searing the chicken; this step adds depth and richness to your dish.
Nothing beats the joy of serving this Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Pasta at family gatherings; watching everyone dig in while praising my cooking skills felt like winning a culinary Oscar!
FAQs:
What is Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Pasta?
Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Pasta is a delicious and convenient dish that combines tender chicken, creamy mozzarella, and flavorful pesto sauce. This recipe is designed for busy individuals who want to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. creamy chicken cordon bleu The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a comforting dish that pairs perfectly with pasta. It’s an ideal choice for family dinners or meal prep.
How do I make Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Pasta?
To make Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Pasta, start with boneless chicken breasts or thighs and coat them with your favorite pesto. Place them in the slow cooker with diced tomatoes and broth. Cook on low for several hours until the chicken is tender. Near the end of cooking time, add cooked pasta and mozzarella cheese to the slow cooker, stirring until melted and combined. Serve it warm for a delightful meal.
Can I customize the ingredients in this recipe?
Yes! One of the great things about Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Pasta is its versatility. You can easily substitute chicken for turkey or beef based on your preference. Additionally, feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition. Adjust the amount of pesto according to your taste; you can use homemade or store-bought varieties. For more inspiration, check out this One Pot Cajun Beef Pasta recipe.
Is Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Pasta suitable for leftovers?
Absolutely! This dish makes excellent leftovers that can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture. Enjoy it on its own or reheat over some fresh pasta for a quick lunch or dinner option during the week.
Conclusion for Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Pasta:
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, rich pesto, and gooey mozzarella creates a satisfying meal everyone will love. Greek sheet pan chicken With simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, this recipe fits into any busy lifestyle while delivering comfort food at its best. Enjoy this delightful pasta dish as part of your weekly meal rotation!
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Pasta is a comforting and delicious dish that combines tender chicken, creamy mozzarella, and vibrant pesto, all cooked slowly to enhance the flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe requires minimal prep time and delivers a hearty meal that everyone will love. Just throw the ingredients in your slow cooker and come home to a warm, cheesy delight that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese (cubed)
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker and pour chicken broth over them.
- Spoon pesto sauce generously over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
- About 30 minutes before serving, cook pasta in boiling water until al dente; drain well.
- Shred the cooked chicken in the slow cooker and stir in the cooked pasta until coated with pesto.
- Sprinkle mozzarella over the top, cover, and allow to melt before garnishing with fresh basil leaves.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
