crock pot chicken pasta recipe

crock pot chicken pasta recipe

The Best crock pot chicken pasta recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – Crock Pot Chicken Pasta. This dish is a staple in our household, and for good reason. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and always a hit with the kids.

I first discovered this recipe on a popular cooking blog, and I’ve since modified it to suit our tastes. The original recipe called for boneless chicken breasts, but I prefer to use bone-in chicken thighs for more flavor and moisture. The crock pot does all the work for you, so just throw everything in and let it cook all day while you’re busy with other tasks.

When I’m short on time, this recipe is a lifesaver. My kids love helping me prep the ingredients and watching the pasta cook in the crock pot. It’s a great way to get them involved in meal prep and teaching them about cooking.

We love serving this dish with a side of steamed broccoli or a green salad for a well-rounded meal. The best part? It’s ready when you are – no fuss, no muss!

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for your next family gathering, Crock Pot Chicken Pasta is an excellent choice.

Crock Pot Chicken Pasta

Crock Pot Chicken Pasta

4.5 from 1482 votes

A comforting and easy slow cooker meal featuring tender chicken and pasta in a creamy tomato sauce. This recipe requires minimal prep and delivers a hearty dinner the whole family will love.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time4 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 15 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken and Sauce

1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup chicken broth

For the Pasta and Finish

8 oz uncooked penne pasta
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
2Add the diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato sauce, diced onion, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and chicken broth.
3Stir gently to combine, making sure the chicken is mostly covered by the sauce.
4Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4 hours or on HIGH for 2.
5 hours.
5The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and shreds easily with a fork.
6About 20 minutes before the chicken is finished, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
7Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually about 10 to 12 minutes.
8Drain the pasta well and set aside.
9Remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker to a cutting board and shred it with two forks.
10Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
11Add the drained pasta to the slow cooker and stir gently to coat all the pasta with the sauce.
12Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb some of the flavors.
13Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker (5-6 quart)
Large pot for boiling pasta
Colander
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 95mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the Parmesan to 1/4 cup. You can also add a cup of fresh spinach in the last 10 minutes of cooking for extra nutrients.

Watch Video Of How Crock Pot Chicken Pasta Works

This Crock Pot Chicken Pasta recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m confident it’ll become one in yours too. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze for later use. When reheating, simply serve over cooked pasta and top with your favorite sauce – whether that’s marinara, alfredo, or pesto – makes no difference!

The leftovers will keep for up to 3 days in the fridge or can be frozen for up to 2 months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Chicken Pasta

Q1: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

A1: For this recipe, I recommend using penne or fusilli pasta. Both shapes hold onto the sauce well and are easy to cook through. If you prefer a different shape, feel free to experiment and see what works best for you.

Q2: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

A2: Yes, you can use chicken breasts if you prefer. However, keep in mind that they may not be as moist as the thighs, and the cooking time may be shorter depending on their size.

Q3: How do I store leftover Crock Pot Chicken Pasta?

A3: Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. When reheating, make sure the pasta reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

Q4: Can I add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the recipe?

A4: Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like – just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on their size and texture.

Q5: Is it safe to cook raw chicken in a crock pot?

A5: Yes, it is safe to cook raw chicken in a crock pot as long as it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Make sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

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