Slow-Cooker Pesto Chicken and Mozzarella Dip Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To add an extra layer of flavor, consider rubbing the toasted ciabatta slices with a fresh garlic clove before serving. This infuses a subtle, aromatic punch that cuts through the richness of the cheese and pesto.

If you prefer a bit of heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can be added to the mixture before cooking, which complements the sweetness of the sun-dried tomatoes and the earthiness of the basil.

If you find that your dip is becoming too thick as it sits on the warm setting, you can stir in a tablespoon of warm milk or heavy cream to loosen the consistency.

This helps maintain the perfect dipping texture throughout the duration of your party. Always serve with a sturdy serving spoon to ensure guests can easily scoop up the chicken and cheese mixture without breaking the crusty bread.

Variations

• Spicy Pesto Dip: Incorporate a tablespoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the cheese mixture before cooking for a vibrant, spicy kick that balances the creamy dairy.
• Spinach and Pesto Dip: Stir in one cup of fresh baby spinach during the final thirty minutes of cooking to add color and a mild earthy flavor that complements the basil perfectly.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheat

Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until hot and creamy.

If you have leftovers, allow the dip to cool for no more than two hours before transferring it to an airtight container. Place the container in the refrigerator immediately. The dip will keep for up to three days. When you are ready to enjoy it again, reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until it is hot and creamy once more.

You can prepare the layers in the slow cooker insert up to four hours in advance. Keep the insert covered in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook.

Simply remove the insert from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for thirty minutes before turning the slow cooker on to the low setting. This makes it incredibly easy to start the cooking process just before your guests arrive.

Serving ideas

This dip is best served as the centerpiece of a casual spread, accompanied by a variety of dippers. While toasted garlic ciabatta is the traditional choice, you can also offer pita chips, sliced bell peppers, or crunchy celery sticks for a variety of textures. The warmth of the dip contrasts beautifully with the crispness of the bread, creating a satisfying experience for everyone.

For a larger gathering, consider setting up a dedicated dip station where the slow cooker is placed on a heat-safe trivet. This allows guests to serve themselves easily throughout the event.

Ensure there is a fresh supply of toasted bread nearby, as this dip is popular and tends to disappear quickly. Keep a small stack of napkins nearby for an effortless and mess-free serving experience.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow-Cooker Pesto Chicken and Mozzarella Dip

Prep 10 minCook 1 h 30 minRest 5 minTotal 1 h 45 minServes 8

Ingredients

• 3 cups shredded chicken
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups shredded whole-milk mozzarella
• 1 cup grated Asiago cheese
• 3/4 cup fresh basil pesto
• 3/4 cup julienned sun-dried tomatoes
• 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
• toasted garlic ciabatta slices, for serving

Instructions

1. Place the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, whole-milk mozzarella, grated Asiago, basil pesto, and julienned sun-dried tomatoes into the ceramic slow cooker insert. Ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed to facilitate uniform melting during the cooking process.
2. Cover the slow cooker and set it to the LOW heat setting. Cook for 90 minutes. Halfway through, you may stir the mixture gently if desired, though leaving it alone allows the pesto oil to marble beautifully through the melting cheese. Monitor the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) to confirm safe consumption.
3. Once the dip is bubbling and fully combined, turn the slow cooker to the warm setting. Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the surface. Serve immediately directly from the warm ceramic insert alongside the toasted garlic ciabatta slices for dipping.

Contains: milk, tree nuts, gluten

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

18 g

Carbohydrates

6 g

Fat

25 g

Fiber

1 g

Sugar

3 g

Sodium

450 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.