Pesto Ranch Chicken Thighs (Print Version)

Slow-cooked chicken thighs with creamy pesto and ranch sauce, tender and full of flavor.

# What You'll Need:

→ Chicken

01 - 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (approximately 2 pounds)

→ Sauce

02 - 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
03 - 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
04 - 1/2 cup chicken broth
05 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
06 - 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

→ Optional Garnish

07 - Fresh basil leaves, chopped
08 - Extra grated Parmesan cheese

# How to Make It:

01 - Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker insert.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together the pesto, ranch seasoning, chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese until thoroughly combined and smooth.
03 - Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is covered.
04 - Cover and cook on LOW setting for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is tender throughout.
05 - For a crisped exterior, transfer the cooked chicken to a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned.
06 - Plate the chicken and spoon the remaining sauce generously over the top. Garnish with chopped fresh basil and additional grated Parmesan.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The sauce creates itself while you go about your actual life, requiring zero attention until its time to eat
  • Something magical happens when herbal pesto meets creamy ranch, creating richness that tastes way more complicated than it really is
02 -
  • I once forgot to add the chicken broth and the sauce turned into more of a thick paste than a pourable sauce, so do not skip that liquid ingredient
  • If you have time, broiling the chicken for two minutes at the end creates these incredible crispy edges that contrast beautifully with the tender meat
03 -
  • Spray your slow cooker with cooking oil first, because that cream sauce can bake onto the bottom and make cleanup feel like a punishment
  • If the sauce looks too thick after cooking, stir in another splash of broth before serving

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