Creamy Pesto Slow Cooker Chicken Pasta (One-Pot Family Favorite)

JUMP TO RECIPE

Imagine this: You’ve had a long day. Maybe it’s been non-stop meetings, errands, or chasing after the kids. As evening creeps in, the last thing you want to do is start a complicated dinner from scratch. That’s where this Pesto Slow Cooker Chicken Pasta becomes your kitchen hero.

With just a few minutes of prep in the morning (yes, literally under 10), your slow cooker takes over. By dinnertime, you’re rewarded with a rich, creamy, flavor-packed pasta dish the whole family will love. This recipe isn’t just about ease—it’s about comfort, connection, and reclaiming your evenings without sacrificing taste.

---

Why You’ll Love This Pesto Slow Cooker Chicken Pasta

If you’ve ever searched for a meal that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare, this one ticks all the boxes. Here’s why it deserves a permanent spot in your rotation:

• ✅ Effortless: Toss it all into the slow cooker—no need to stand over a stove.
• ✅ Flavorful: Creamy pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, melty cheeses… it’s rich and indulgent.
• ✅ Versatile: Use your favorite pasta, adjust the spice level, or sneak in extra veggies.
• ✅ Family-Friendly: Picky eaters? No problem. This is a dish everyone will devour.
• ✅ Meal-Prep Friendly: Makes generous servings and stores well for leftovers.

---

Ingredients You’ll Need for Pesto Slow Cooker Chicken Pasta

Before diving into the steps, let’s make sure you have everything ready. This recipe uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients that you might already have in your pantry or fridge.

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts	2 pounds (diced)
Kosher salt	1 teaspoon
Black pepper	½ teaspoon
Jarred pesto	1 jar (6.7 oz)
Sun-dried tomatoes	1 cup (chopped)
Chicken broth	4 cups (960 g)
Pasta (your choice)	16 ounces
Heavy cream	1 cup (238 g)
Cream cheese	8 ounces (diced)
Shredded mozzarella cheese	3 cups (339 g)
Grated parmesan cheese	½ cup (25 g)
Fresh basil	For garnish

Optional Add-ins

• Fresh spinach
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Roasted red peppers
• Artichoke hearts
• Mushrooms

You’re free to mix and match based on what you have or what your family loves.

---

Step-by-Step: How to Make Pesto Chicken Pasta in a Slow Cooker

You don’t need to be a seasoned home chef to pull this off. Just follow these straightforward steps and let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting.

Step 1: Load the Slow Cooker

Start by adding your diced chicken breasts to the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. Sprinkle in the salt and pepper, then pour over the pesto and chicken broth. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and give it all a good stir. This forms your flavor base—rich, savory, and full of depth.

Step 2: Slow Cook the Chicken

Set your slow cooker to high for 1 hour or low for 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temp of 165°F. The goal here isn’t just to cook it through—it’s to infuse every piece with pesto and tomato goodness.

Step 3: Add the Creamy Ingredients

Once your chicken is fully cooked, it’s time to make this dish ultra-decadent. Stir in:

• Heavy cream
• Cubed cream cheese
• Shredded mozzarella
• Grated parmesan

Stir thoroughly to break down the cream cheese and blend the cheeses evenly. Your kitchen will start smelling amazing at this point.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Now add your uncooked pasta of choice directly into the slow cooker. Make sure it’s fully submerged in the creamy liquid. Cover and cook for another 25 to 30 minutes until the pasta is tender and infused with all that cheesy pesto flavor.

Pro Tip: Stir halfway through the pasta cook time to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once your pasta is perfectly cooked and the sauce is thick and creamy, top it off with freshly chopped basil. It adds a pop of color and fresh aroma that elevates the dish.

Serve warm, and enjoy the “mmm” sounds around your dinner table.

---

Choosing the Best Pasta for This Dish

While this recipe is flexible, certain pasta shapes really soak up the creamy pesto sauce better. Consider these options:

Top Choices

• Penne
• Rotini
• Fusilli
• Shells

Avoid very thin or delicate pasta like angel hair, as it can overcook and become mushy in a slow cooker environment.  Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

---

Tips for Perfecting Pesto Chicken Pasta Every Time

Want to make sure this recipe turns out flawless every time? Keep these tips in mind:

• Use quality pesto: A good jar of basil pesto can make or break the flavor.
• Don’t skip the cream cheese: It’s key to getting that thick, luscious texture.
• Fully submerge the pasta: This ensures even cooking and avoids crunchy bites.
• Stir the cheese in stages: Helps avoid clumping and ensures even melting.

---

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

One of the best things about this dish? It makes a lot—and leftovers are just as good (maybe even better!).

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Portion into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Gently reheat on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.

---

Easy Variations to Suit Any Taste

Looking to tweak this recipe for dietary needs or flavor preferences? Here are some creative ways to make it your own:

Low-Carb Option

Swap traditional pasta for:

• Zucchini noodles (zoodles)
• Shirataki noodles
• Cooked spaghetti squash (stir in at the end)

Vegetarian Twist

Replace chicken with:

• Sautéed mushrooms
• Chickpeas
• Cauliflower florets

Spicy Pesto Pasta

Crave heat? Add:

• Red pepper flakes
• Jalapeño slices
• Spicy pesto varieties

---

Pairing Suggestions: Making It a Full Meal

Want to round out your plate? Pair this pasta with:

Sides

• Garlic bread
• Caesar salad
• Roasted vegetables (zucchini, carrots, asparagus)

Drinks

• White wine: A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
• Sparkling water with lemon for a lighter touch

---

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

Here’s a rough nutritional overview per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 685 kcal
• Protein: High (from chicken and cheese)
• Carbs: Moderate (pasta)
• Fats: Rich (cream and cheeses)

Note: These values may vary depending on your specific ingredients.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen chicken in this pesto slow cooker chicken pasta?

You can—but it’s best to thaw it first. This ensures even cooking and food safety.

Do I have to use cream cheese?

No, but it really adds to the richness. If you’re looking for a substitute, try mascarpone or full-fat Greek yogurt.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, but be cautious. Some gluten-free pastas cook faster and might become mushy. Check early and often.

What pesto brand works best?

Look for refrigerated pesto or one with minimal preservatives for the freshest taste. Brands like Buitoni or Barilla Premium are great options.

---

Conclusion: Comfort Food That Practically Cooks Itself

Let’s face it—life gets busy. And you deserve a meal that delivers warmth, flavor, and satisfaction without making you feel like a short-order cook. This Pesto Slow Cooker Chicken Pasta is that meal. It’s comforting, creamy, and packed with bold, savory flavors. And the best part? You did it all with barely any effort.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe has your back. So the next time you need something easy and crave-worthy, let your slow cooker handle dinner—and take the credit.

---

Call to Action: Let’s Get Cooking!

Ready to make this dish your new weeknight hero? Grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and give this Pesto Slow Cooker Chicken Pasta a go. Don’t forget to bookmark this recipe, share it with a friend, or leave a comment with your own creative twist. Happy cooking!

Print