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Creamy Crockpot Chicken Pesto Pasta

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A creamy, comforting crockpot chicken pesto pasta recipe that is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken and pasta soak up a rich pesto cream sauce for a cozy meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 12 oz uncooked pasta (penne or rotini recommended)
  • 1/3 cup store-bought pesto (about 80 ml)
  • 2 cups chicken broth (480 ml)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened (115 g)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 g)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and pat dry the chicken breasts. Mince the garlic cloves and set aside.
  2. In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with chicken broth until smooth.
  3. Place chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Sprinkle minced garlic evenly over the chicken.
  4. Pour uncooked pasta over the chicken without stirring.
  5. Slowly pour the cream cheese and broth mixture over the pasta and chicken. Follow with heavy cream and pesto, distributing evenly.
  6. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
  7. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours. Avoid lifting the lid frequently.
  8. After about 3.5 hours, check that the chicken flakes easily and pasta is tender but not mushy.
  9. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top and gently stir everything together until creamy and combined.
  10. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Notes

Softening the cream cheese before mixing prevents lumps. Use uncooked pasta for best texture. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain even heat. If sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of broth or cream; if too runny, leave lid off on warm for 15 minutes to reduce.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot chicken pesto pasta, creamy chicken pasta, slow cooker pasta, comfort food, easy dinner, pesto pasta recipe

Find it online: https://jodierecipes.com/creamy-crockpot-chicken-pesto-pasta-recipe-easy-comfort-meal-ideas/