Name: Crockpot Pesto Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-490153H40M40S
Total time: PT-490153H40M40S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 lbs skinless, boneless chicken breasts; 2 tbsp Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme); 1 cup pesto (homemade or store-bought, gluten-free if needed); Sea salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 4 tbsp pesto; 1 Roma tomato, chopped (or cherry tomatoes); 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for dairy-free option)

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Introduction

Crockpot Pesto Chicken is a simple, flavorful dish perfect for busy days. Tender chicken breasts are slow-cooked with Italian seasoning and rich pesto, resulting in a mouthwatering meal that’s effortless to prepare.

A white speckled plate holds a serving of white rice on the upper right side with a few small red diced pieces mixed in, alongside a single chicken breast on the left side. The chicken is seasoned with herbs, showing a light brown and greenish texture, topped with bright red diced tomatoes and a light sprinkle of white grated cheese. Fresh green basil leaves are placed around the chicken and rice on the plate. The scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 lbs skinless, boneless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs)
2 tbsp Italian seasoning (or mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
1 cup pesto (homemade or store-bought, basil or arugula pesto)
Sea salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
For serving:
- 4 tbsp pesto
- 1 Roma tomato, chopped (or cherry tomatoes)
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan (or nutritional yeast for dairy-free)

Instructions

Step 1: Place the chicken breasts into the crockpot. Season both sides with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Spread the pesto evenly over the chicken, covering all pieces completely.
Step 3: Cook on low heat for 4-5 hours. After 2 hours, check the chicken’s moisture. If it seems dry, add a splash of vegetable broth. Continue checking hourly to prevent overdrying.
Step 4: Once fully cooked, spread additional pesto (about 1 tbsp per chicken breast) over the top. You may also use your favorite sauce here.
Step 5: Just before serving, top the chicken with chopped tomato and grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips & Variations

For a dairy-free option, replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor.
Using chicken thighs instead of breasts will yield a juicier result.
If you don’t have Italian seasoning, a blend of dried oregano, basil, and thyme works perfectly.
Serve with pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad to complete the meal.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid drying out the chicken. You can also freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

How to Serve

The image shows two pieces of cooked chicken breast on a white plate with a white marbled surface underneath. Each chicken piece has a light golden color with herbs and spices visible on the surface, giving a textured, slightly rough look. On top of the chicken are small, bright red diced tomatoes scattered evenly, adding a fresh contrast. A green herb leaf lies under one piece of chicken, and there are light sprinkles of white grated cheese scattered across the chicken and tomatoes. The chicken on the left is being lifted by a metal utensil, highlighting the tender texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw them completely before placing in the crockpot to ensure even cooking and avoid food safety issues.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free pesto and seasonings, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.