Crockpot Chicken Pasta is a warm and tasty dish that combines tender chicken, pasta, and a creamy sauce, all cooked together to perfection. It’s like a big hug on your plate!
This recipe is a lifesaver on busy days. Just toss everything in the crockpot, set it, and forget it! I love that it makes dinner feel like a special treat without any fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect because they cook up tender and juicy. If you’re short on time, try using rotisserie chicken instead for a quicker option.
Pasta: Penne works great, but you can swap it for other shapes like fusilli or shells. Just keep in mind that cooking times may slightly vary depending on the pasta type.
Chicken Broth: If you’re looking for a lighter option, low-sodium chicken broth is a good choice. You can also use vegetable broth if you want a vegetarian version—just omit the chicken or use plant-based meat!
Cheese: Shredded mozzarella adds creaminess, while Parmesan gives a nice sharp flavor. If you want to mix it up, try using cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different taste.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter dish, half-and-half works well. You can even use coconut milk for a dairy-free version, but keep in mind it may alter the flavor slightly.
How Do You Ensure Your Pasta is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking the pasta in the crockpot requires some care to avoid mushiness. Here’s how to do it right:
- After shredding the chicken, add the uncooked pasta to the remaining broth. Stir it in gently.
- Set your crockpot to high and let the pasta cook for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Check for doneness when the time is up. The pasta should be tender but still hold its shape.
- If it appears too dry, add a splash of more chicken broth or water to keep things creamy.
With these tips, you should have a delightful crockpot chicken pasta that everyone will enjoy! Happy cooking!
Crockpot Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken Base:
- 1.5 to 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For the Pasta and Sauce:
- 12 oz penne pasta (uncooked)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: red pepper flakes for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crockpot Chicken Pasta requires about 15 minutes of prep time. After that, you’ll let it cook for approximately 4 to 5 hours on low (or 30 to 40 minutes on high for the pasta). Total time including prep and cooking is about 5 hours and 15 minutes, but most of it is hands-off, making it perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken. This will infuse great flavor into the meat.
2. Add the Broth:
Pour the chicken broth over the seasoned chicken, ensuring it’s well covered. Cover the crockpot with a lid and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
3. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is done, carefully remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Set the shredded chicken aside for later.
4. Cook the Pasta:
Add the uncooked penne pasta directly into the crockpot with the remaining broth. Stir it gently to combine. Set the crockpot to high and cook the pasta for about 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Check for tenderness and adjust cooking time if needed.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream (or half-and-half), shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese into the crockpot. Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
6. Combine Everything:
Add the shredded chicken back into the crockpot and mix well to ensure everything is nicely combined. Warm the dish for an additional 10 minutes on low, allowing the flavors to meld.
7. Serve and Garnish:
When ready to eat, serve the Crockpot Chicken Pasta hot. Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
Enjoy your creamy, comforting Crockpot Chicken Pasta! It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to cook it on high for about an hour longer than the recommended time to ensure it’s fully cooked. No need to thaw beforehand; the crockpot will handle that for you!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half is a great substitute. For a dairy-free version, coconut milk works well, but it may impart a slight coconut flavor to the dish.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with your favorite plant-based protein, like chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead. You can also add in your favorite veggies for extra flavor and texture!
