If you’re searching for a hearty, comforting dinner recipe that’s simple to make and bursting with flavor, look no further! This creamy crockpot chicken pasta is the perfect combination of tender chicken, velvety sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta.
Made in a slow cooker, it’s a low-effort, high-reward dish that the whole family will love. Plus, I’ve included plenty of tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!
Ingredients
Before diving into the recipe, gather these simple ingredients:
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta and Finishing Touches:
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta (uncooked)
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Crockpot
Start by lightly greasing your crockpot to prevent sticking. Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
2. Mix the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, heavy cream, cream of chicken soup, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
3. Cook the Chicken
Set your crockpot to low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours. The chicken should be tender and cooked through.
4. Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to combine.
5. Add the Pasta
Add the uncooked pasta to the crockpot, stirring well to coat it with the sauce. Cover and cook on high for another 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the pasta cooks evenly.
6. Add the Cheese
When the pasta is tender, stir in the shredded Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Let the cheese melt into the sauce, creating a creamy, cheesy texture.
7. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious creamy crockpot chicken pasta!
Extra Tips for Success
- Use the Right Pasta: Opt for pasta shapes like penne or rotini, which hold the creamy sauce well. Avoid thin pasta like spaghetti, as it might overcook.
- Don’t Skip Stirring: Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent clumping or uneven cooking.
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth. If it’s too thin, let the crockpot cook uncovered for a few minutes to thicken.
- Boost the Flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat or mix in cooked bacon bits for extra richness.
- Make it Veggie-Friendly: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe is a true winner because it combines the convenience of slow cooking with the rich flavors of a creamy pasta dish. The slow cooker ensures the chicken stays tender and juicy while the sauce thickens to perfection. And the best part? You don’t have to babysit the stove—just set it and let it cook!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time by an hour to ensure the chicken cooks through properly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Parmesan and mozzarella are classic choices, but you can also use cheddar or Gruyère for a unique twist.
Can I skip the cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer, you can replace it with an additional 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch for a similar consistency.
Is it okay to use pre-cooked pasta?
It’s best to cook the pasta in the crockpot so it absorbs the flavors of the sauce. Pre-cooked pasta might turn mushy.
Conclusion
There you have it—the ultimate recipe for creamy crockpot chicken pasta! It’s comfort food at its finest, packed with rich, cheesy flavors and tender chicken. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy.
Don’t forget to share your experience and any tweaks you made to the recipe. Happy cooking!
Welcome to Azaad Bites! I’m the creator and heart behind this site, a passionate foodie with a love for all things delicious. Cooking has been my creative outlet and joy for years, and I’m here to share my favorite recipes, cooking tips, and food discoveries with you. From comforting classics to bold new flavors, I believe that every dish tells a story, and I can’t wait to share mine with you. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, I hope to inspire you to explore the world of food and drink with a dash of curiosity and a lot of flavor.