This Crockpot Chicken Pasta is a cozy dish that’s super easy to make! Just toss chicken, pasta, and your favorite sauce into the slow cooker and let it do the hard work.
The best part? Your kitchen will smell amazing while it cooks! I love serving it with a sprinkle of cheese on top. It feels like a warm hug in a bowl! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe, but thighs also work great for a richer flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try using chickpeas or tofu instead!
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds so much flavor, but vegetable broth is a good substitute if you want to keep it vegetarian. Homemade stock can also enhance the taste if you have some on hand.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. If you’re dairy-free, opt for coconut cream or a nut-based cream alternative for a rich texture.
Pasta: Penne is great, but feel free to swap it with other pasta types like elbow macaroni or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose, since some shapes take longer to cook.
How Do I Cook Pasta in a Slow Cooker Without It Getting Mushy?
Cooking pasta in a slow cooker can be tricky, but here are some handy tips to ensure perfect results:
- Add the pasta in the last 30-45 minutes of cooking. This prevents it from overcooking.
- Stir it well after adding, and check it occasionally. If it starts to soak up too much liquid, you might need to add a splash of broth or water.
- Cook on high heat after adding the pasta to help it cook faster and evenly.
By keeping an eye on the pasta and adjusting the liquid as needed, you can achieve that creamy, al dente texture. Happy cooking!
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 (8-ounce) package penne pasta (uncooked)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delectable Crockpot Chicken Pasta takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare. You’ll need to let it cook for 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. After everything is combined, just let it simmer until the pasta is cooked and it’s ready to serve! Perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Base:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts right at the bottom of your crockpot. This layer will soak up all the flavor as it cooks.
2. Season with Flavor:
Next, pour the chicken broth over the chicken. Then, sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper evenly over everything. This mixture will create a tasty base for your pasta dish!
3. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot and let it cook. Choose to set it on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is fork-tender and fully cooked.
4. Shred the Chicken:
When your chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. It should pull apart easily!
5. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time to add the shredded chicken back into the crockpot. Add the uncooked penne pasta along with the heavy cream. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed.
6. Cook the Pasta:
Cover the crockpot again and let it cook on high for about 30-45 minutes. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. You want it to be tender and surrounded by a creamy sauce!
7. Finishing Touches:
Once the pasta is done, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until it’s melted and blended throughout.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the creamy, delicious pasta into bowls. Garnish each serving with fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a beautiful touch. Enjoy your comforting meal!
This Crockpot Chicken Pasta is not just easy to make, it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table with its creamy goodness and flavorful blend. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! However, it’s best to cook it on high heat for about 3-4 hours instead of low to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature. Always check the chicken is fully cooked before shredding.
What If I Don’t Have Penne Pasta?
No problem! You can substitute penne with other pasta types like rotini, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different shapes may require slight adjustments.
Can I Make This Dish Creamy Without Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter option. For a dairy-free version, try using coconut cream or a plant-based cream that suits your taste.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little extra broth if it seems dry. Enjoy your meal again!
