SLOW-COOKER PESTO CHICKEN THIGHS

Steps:

• Spray slow cooker lightly with cooking spray. Sprinkle chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. Nestle chicken thighs in slow cooker in even layer; they may be arranged tightly, if necessary.
• In small bowl, stir pesto and chicken broth. Pour over chicken thighs, and spread evenly with spoon.
• Cover and cook on High heat setting 4 hours. Serve immediately using one or both of the ideas below, or cool slightly and refrigerate in an airtight container for a few days until ready to use.
• Bruschetta-Topped Chicken: In medium bowl, mix 1 1/2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes, 2 tablespoons finely diced red onion, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil leaves, 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar, salt and pepper to taste. Let stand 10 minutes for flavors to blend. Spoon over 1/2 recipe hot Slow-Cooker Pesto Chicken Thighs, and serve with rice or pasta as desired. (To use the entire recipe of chicken thighs, double these ingredient amounts.)
• Bacon Ranch Pasta and Chicken: Cook and drain 1/2 lb pasta (a short variety) as directed on package. Toss hot pasta with 1 tablespoon dry ranch dressing and seasoning mix, 1/4 cup sour cream, 1/4 cup milk, 1/2 cup shredded Italian cheese blend, 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled and 1/2 recipe Slow-Cooker Pesto Chicken Thighs, shredded. Top with a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve warm. (To use the entire recipe of chicken thighs, double these ingredient amounts.)