Crockpot Chicken Pasta is a warm and tasty dish that’s super easy to make! You just throw chicken, pasta, and a few veggies into the crockpot and let it do the work for you.
This recipe is perfect for busy days when you need a nice meal without the hustle. Just set it and forget it, then enjoy creamy, flavorful pasta that feels like a hug on a plate! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a great choice for this dish as they become tender and shred easily. For a twist, you could use thighs for more flavor, or even swap in tofu if you want a vegetarian option.
Pasta: Penne pasta is perfect because it holds onto the creamy sauce well. If you don’t have penne, feel free to use rotini, fusilli, or any small pasta shape you love.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half works too. You could even use coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative; just adjust the seasoning for balance.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the dish a wonderful flavor. If you don’t have it, any hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can work, especially for a vegan option.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta is Cooked Perfectly in the Crockpot?
The pasta can be tricky in a crockpot, but with the right technique, you can achieve the perfect texture! Here’s how:
- After cooking the chicken, stir in the uncooked pasta at the end of the cooking time. This prevents it from getting mushy.
- Cook on high for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Check for the al dente texture; it should be firm but cooked through. If needed, add a splash of broth for moisture.
Following these tips will help you get creamy pasta with the right bite. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Delicious Crockpot Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 to 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 16 oz penne pasta (uncooked)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter option)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (for a mild kick)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This flavorful Crockpot Chicken Pasta takes about 15-20 minutes to prep, plus a cooking time of 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. You’ll have plenty of time to relax while it cooks to perfection!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Base:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This helps keep them moist as they cook. Next, sprinkle the finely chopped onion and minced garlic over the chicken.
2. Add the Flavorful Ingredients:
Sprinkle the paprika, dried Italian seasoning, and a good pinch of salt and pepper on top. Then, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, making sure everything is well combined. Finally, place the cream cheese cubes evenly on top.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Cover your crockpot and let it cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. You want the chicken to be cooked through and tender so it shreds easily.
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once cooked, take the chicken out of the pot and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back to the crockpot and stir everything together.
5. Add the Pasta:
Now it’s time to add the uncooked penne pasta! Stir well to combine. Cover the crockpot again and cook on high for another 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked al dente.
6. Finish Off with Cheese:
Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until it melts and blends into a creamy sauce. Check for seasoning and adjust with more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning if needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Crockpot Chicken Pasta is ready! Serve it hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and a light sprinkle of paprika or crushed red pepper flakes. Enjoy this delicious, creamy comfort food!
Happy cooking and enjoy your meal! 🍽️
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to increase the cooking time. Cook on low for about 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crockpot layers in advance and refrigerate them before cooking. Just add an extra 30 minutes to the cooking time if it’s starting from a cold state.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if it starts to dry out.
Can I Substitute the Pasta?
Yes! While penne is fantastic, you can swap it for any small pasta shape, like rotini or shells. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time; some shapes may take a bit less time to cook.