In the heart of comfort food, there lies a simple, yet utterly satisfying dish that promises warmth and flavor in every bite: Slow Cooker Chicken Pasta. This dish is the epitome of home-cooked goodness, combining tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a recipe that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum taste, making it ideal for busy weekdays, cozy weekends, or any time you crave a hearty meal. The slow cooker does most of the work for you, infusing every ingredient with deep, savory flavors that only time can bestow. So, let’s embark on a culinary journey that guarantees to please your palate and warm your soul with this comforting classic.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 lb uncooked pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions & How to Prepare
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Pour the chicken broth over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-covered.
- Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours.
- After cooking, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Set aside.
- In the slow cooker, add the heavy cream and uncooked pasta, stirring well to combine.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, mixing it into the sauce and pasta.
- Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes or until the pasta is tender.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 3.5 to 6.5 hours (depending on the setting)
- Total time: Approximately 4 to 7 hours
Servings
- Serves 4 to 6
FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but add 1 to 2 hours to the low setting cook time to ensure it cooks through.
- Can I add vegetables to this recipe? Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers in the last hour of cooking can boost the nutritional value and flavor.
- What type of pasta works best? Penne and fettuccine are great as they hold the sauce well, but you can use any pasta you prefer.
- Can I cook this on high instead of low? Yes, if you’re short on time, cook on high for half the duration recommended for low.
- How can I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a little broth or cream if needed.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, a comfort that whispers of home and heartiness with every spoonful. This recipe is a testament to the magic of slow cooking, where patience yields tender chicken and pasta, bathed in a creamy, flavorful sauce that’s both comforting and indulgent. It’s a dish that caters to all, from the culinary novice to the seasoned chef, proving that delicious doesn’t have to be complicated. So next time you’re in need of a comforting meal, remember that great flavors are just a slow cooker away. Gather your ingredients, set the timer, and let the slow cooker work its magic, filling your home with the inviting aroma of what’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ultimate Comfort in a Bowl: Slow Cooker Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 2HRS40min
Description
Crockpot Chicken Pasta is a rich and zesty chicken and pasta dish made in a slow cooker, letting it do all the work! It is a comforting and satisfying meal with a creamy, Italian-inspired twist.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 lb uncooked pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Pour the chicken broth over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-covered.
- Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours.
- After cooking, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Set aside.
- In the slow cooker, add the heavy cream and uncooked pasta, stirring well to combine.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, mixing it into the sauce and pasta.
- Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes or until the pasta is tender.
- Prep Time: 10MINUTES
- Cook Time: 2HOURS30min
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 115mg