Crockpot chicken pasta is a comforting, creamy, and flavorful dish that requires minimal effort. The slow cooker allows the chicken to become tender while absorbing the rich flavors of the sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With a combination of juicy chicken, pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish is sure to be a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Spray the crockpot with non-stick cooking spray or lightly coat it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Season the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and season them with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
- Add the Sauce Ingredients: Pour in the cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir gently to combine.
- Slow Cook the Chicken: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and mix it with the sauce.
- Add the Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and cubed cream cheese. Allow the cheeses to melt into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.
- Cook the Pasta: While the cheese is melting, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain well.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker and stir until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce.
- Final Touches: Let the pasta sit in the crockpot for 10-15 minutes on low heat to absorb the flavors. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Chicken Pasta:
- Use a mix of cheeses for a richer flavor.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Use rotisserie chicken if you need a quicker version.
- Try different pasta shapes to change up the texture.
This crockpot chicken pasta is a delicious, creamy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is sure to impress! 🍝🔥