Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Pasta Recipe

Indulge in a vibrant fusion of tender chicken bathed in rich basil pesto, perfectly complemented by sun-dried tomatoes and a hint of spice. The penne pasta absorbs every burst of flavor, while melted mozzarella creates a luxuriously creamy finish, making this dish a comforting and unforgettable culinary experience.

I stumbled on this Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Pasta recipe and it quickly became one of my go-to meals. I start with 1.5 lbs of amazing boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into chunks and mix them with 2 cups of basil pesto sauce and 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth in the slow cooker.

I then add 12 oz of uncooked penne pasta which soaks up all those incredible flavors as it cooks. I always toss in 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese so it melts into a gooey, satisfying layer that makes every bite rich in protein and calcium.

Sometimes I like to add in 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes along with a little salt, pepper and a dash of red pepper flakes to give it a slight kick. This recipe is one of those comforting, hearty dishes that even a Corn Dog lover cant resist when using my magical slow cooker tricks.

Why I Like this Recipe

I like this recipe because it makes dinner super easy and fun. I love how the pesto mixes with the melted mozzarella to give a rich, creamy flavor that doesn’t feel too heavy. I also really like that the slow cooker does most of the work for me, so I can chill out while it cooks. And honestly, the mix of tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta always hits the spot when I need something comforting.

Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Pasta is just like a little magic happening right in my slow cooker. The chicken comes out really tender and juicy, and when the pesto and mozzarella melt together, it creates this incredible sauce that covers every piece of pasta. Its a simple recipe that turns out delicious every time, making it perfect for those days when you dont feel like spending too much time in the kitchen. The dish is comforting, easy to pull together, and always leaves me wanting more.

Ingredients

• Chicken: lean protein that builds muscle and adds hearty depth to each bite.
• Basil Pesto: fresh basil blended with olive oil, garlic, and nuts for healthy fats.
• Penne Pasta: a carbohydrate source offering energy and a firm, satisfying texture.
• Mozzarella: creamy cheese providing protein and calcium while boosting rich flavor.
• Sun Dried Tomatoes: tangy fruits loaded with vitamins and antioxidants that bring zest.
• Chicken Broth: low-sodium liquid that melds flavors and keeps the meal juicy.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
• 2 cups basil pesto sauce (store bought or homemade)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 12 oz uncooked penne pasta
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)

How to Make this

1. Start by seasoning the chicken chunks with salt, pepper and the red pepper flakes, then toss them into the slow cooker.

2. Next, pour in the basil pesto sauce and low-sodium chicken broth, and if you’re using sun-dried tomatoes, add those in too.

3. Give everything a gentle stir so the chicken is well coated in the pesto, then cover the slow cooker and set it on low for about 2 hours.

4. After 2 hours, add the uncooked penne pasta to the mixture. Make sure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid; if not, you can add just a splash more broth.

5. Switch the slow cooker to high and cook for another 30 to 40 minutes until the pasta gets tender.

6. Once the pasta is done, stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese, letting the heat melt it into a creamy, gooey sauce.

7. If you feel like it needs a bit more flavor, taste and then add more salt or pepper as needed.

8. Let the dish sit for a few minutes off the heat so all the flavors can come together nicely.

9. Serve it up hot and enjoy your magical slow cooker pesto mozzarella chicken pasta!

Equipment Needed

1. Slow cooker
2. Mixing bowl (for seasoning the chicken and tossing in all the ingredients)
3. Measuring cups (to measure out the basil pesto sauce and chicken broth)
4. Stirring spoon (something sturdy to mix the chicken, pesto, and pasta together)
5. Knife and cutting board (if you havent chopped the sun-dried tomatoes beforehand)

FAQ

Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Pasta Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• If you can’t find chicken breasts, you could use turkey breast or even firm tofu if you’re wantin a meatless version.
• Not into basil pesto? Try swapping it out with a spinach or arugula pesto mix which still gives you a tasty green flavor.
• Out of chicken broth? No worries, you can use vegetable broth or even water with a bouillon cube to add some extra flavor.
• Don’t have penne? Short pasta like fusilli or ziti works just as well and it will give you a similar hearty feel.
• If mozzarella isn’t your thing, feel free to substitute with provolone or even a mild cheddar for a different twist.

Pro Tips

1. Try browning your chicken in a pan first if you have a little extra time. It really helps to seal in the juices and gives the dish an extra flavor kick that you might not get by just slow cooking it.
2. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider making your own pesto instead of using store bought. Homemade pesto tends to have a fresher taste and can totally elevate the dish.
3. Keep an eye on the pasta when you add it in. Sometimes the noodles might need just a bit more liquid to cook evenly, so don’t be afraid to add a splash more broth if it seems too dry.
4. Before serving, let the dish sit for a few minutes after turning off the heat. This lets the mozzarella settle into the pasta and makes it taste even better.