Slow Cooker Pesto Chicken Thighs
Indulge in the effortless flavors of Slow Cooker Pesto Chicken Thighs, a comforting, hands-off dish that’s bursting with Italian-inspired goodness. Juicy, tender boneless chicken thighs are slow-cooked to perfection in a vibrant basil pesto sauce, mingling with sweet cherry tomatoes and aromatic garlic for a flavor-packed meal that couldn’t be easier to prepare. Finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and optional fresh basil leaves, this dish is as elegant as it is simple. With just 10 minutes of prep time and a low, slow simmer in your slow cooker, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. Serve it alongside pasta, rice, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress!
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Ingredients
- 6 pieces boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0 fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Directions
Step 1
Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2
Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker in an even layer. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
Step 3
Mince the garlic and add it to the chicken thighs, spreading evenly across the surface.
Step 4
Pour the basil pesto over the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Step 5
Wash and halve the cherry tomatoes, then scatter them over and around the chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
Step 6
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on the low heat setting for 4 hours or until the chicken thighs are fully cooked and tender (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Step 7
Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs carefully from the slow cooker using tongs and transfer to a serving plate.
Step 8
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the chicken while it is still warm, allowing it to melt slightly.
Step 9
Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve hot with your choice of sides such as rice, pasta, or a simple green salad.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (1036.0g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2424.9 |
| Total Fat 178.7g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 39.6g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 1.3g | |
| Cholesterol 789.2mg | 0% |
| Sodium 3443.9mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 24.2g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 6.1g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 7.8g | |
| Protein 181.4g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 42IU | 0% |
| Calcium 721.6mg | 0% |
| Iron 11.0mg | 0% |
| Potassium 2066.2mg | 0% |
Source of Calories