Ready in: 6 hours · Serves: 6 · Technique: Slow Cooking · Storage: Refrigerate for up to 4 days; freeze for up to 3 months.
Quick Answer
Slow Cooker Pesto Ranch Chicken is a delicious, hassle-free dish made by layering chicken with pesto and ranch seasoning, cooked low and slow for tender, flavorful results.
With the vibrant energy of New York City buzzing around me, I find that there's nothing quite like the comfort of a wholesome meal waiting for me after a long day. The upcoming holidays always have me exploring recipes that are easy to whip up and absolutely delicious. One such gem I've discovered is this Slow Cooker Pesto Ranch Chicken. It's the perfect dish for Thanksgiving gatherings or cozy Christmas dinners, making it a staple on my seasonal menu.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for busy days and holiday gatherings, this dish is easy to prepare in a slow cooker.
- The combination of pesto and ranch creates a deliciously rich flavor that's sure to impress your guests.
- Leftovers are versatile and can be used in sandwiches, salads, or served over rice.
- This meal is not only comforting but also healthy, packed with protein and fresh herbs.
- Minimal cleanup required-just one pot to wash!
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to create a flavorful Slow Cooker Pesto Ranch Chicken:
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of prepared pesto
- 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
How to Make Slow Cooker Pesto Ranch Chicken (Step-by-Step)
Get ready to enjoy a delightful meal by following these easy steps:
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper. Be cautious with the salt, as the ranch seasoning mix and chicken broth will contribute plenty of flavor.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
In your slow cooker, arrange the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom. Then, spread the pesto evenly over the chicken for a vibrant green layer.
Step 3: Add Ranch Seasoning and Broth
Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over the chicken, then pour in the chicken broth. You should hear a pleasant slosh as everything combines.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let it cook for about 5-6 hours, or until the chicken is thoroughly tender and easily shreds with a fork. The wonderful aroma will fill your kitchen!
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the slow cooker. Mix it with the pesto and ranch sauce until well combined.
Step 6: Serve
Enjoy your chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside roasted vegetables. For a festive touch, sprinkle some fresh basil on top before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping Seasoning: Don't forget to season the chicken before adding other ingredients; the initial layers of flavor are key.
- Overcooking: Monitor the cooking time closely. Cooking for too long can lead to dry chicken. Aim for that tender melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Using Low-Quality Pesto: The quality of pesto makes a big difference in flavor. Avoid using store-bought versions that lack freshness and depth.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For a richer flavor, feel free to add a splash of white wine to the broth.
- If you're preparing this for a holiday gathering, double the recipe! It's easy to make for a crowd and leftovers are just as delicious.
- Serve with a crusty baguette to soak up the tasty sauce-trust me, you won't regret it!
Variations
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier texture.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes to the slow cooker for an extra flavor punch.
- Mix in spinach or kale during the last hour of cooking for added nutrients.
- Substitute homemade pesto for a fresher flavor.
How to Serve
- Serve over a bed of fluffy rice.
- Pair with roasted vegetables for a colorful plate.
- Use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
- Top with fresh basil for a festive touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Marinate the chicken in pesto for a few hours or overnight for enhanced flavor.
- Storage: Keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
- Freezing: Can be frozen for up to 3 months; ensure it cools completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
During testing, I discovered that marinating the chicken with the pesto overnight enhances its flavor significantly. This dish offers incredible versatility as it can be used in sandwiches or salads, creating something new each time I make it.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 6 servings · Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~350 calories · 30g protein · 5g carbs · 20g fat
Recipe by:
Tender Slow Cooker Pesto Ranch Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker and spread the pesto evenly over the chicken.
- Sprinkle ranch seasoning mix over the chicken and pour in the chicken broth.
- Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours, until chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred the chicken in the slow cooker and mix with the pesto and ranch sauce.
- Serve over rice or alongside roasted vegetables, garnished with fresh basil.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to extend the cooking time by an hour or so to ensure they cook thoroughly.
2. Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just turn on the slow cooker in the morning for a delicious meal ready by dinner time.
3. What can I serve with Slow Cooker Pesto Ranch Chicken?
This dish pairs well with fluffy rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables. A crusty baguette is also a great choice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
4. Is there a way to adjust the spice level of the dish?
While the ranch seasoning provides a mild flavor, you can add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you prefer a little heat in your meal.
5. How can I store leftovers from this recipe?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; just ensure it cools completely before freezing.
