As the sun sets, I often crave a warm, comforting meal. It's a way to welcome home after a long day. My easy chicken pasta in crockpot recipe is just what I need. It's creamy, satisfying, and lets me spend time with loved ones.

If you’re a fan of Chinese Chicken Fingers and other chicken dishes, you can’t miss this one. This slow cooker chicken pasta recipe is simple. Just layer the ingredients and set the timer. In six hours, a delicious meal is ready, with minimal cleanup. It's perfect for busy families, offering ease in our cooking routines.

Why Choose Chicken Pasta in Crockpot?

Preparing meals can feel overwhelming, especially on busy weeknights. Choosing chicken pasta in crockpot makes things easier. It brings tasty flavors and is budget-friendly for families and individuals.

Convenience for Busy Weeknights: Using a crockpot saves precious time. Toss the ingredients in the morning, and come home to a meal that’s ready to serve.
Flavorful and Creamy Dishes: Cooking in a crockpot enhances the flavors, creating a creamy, satisfying sauce that pairs perfectly with tender chicken and pasta.
Cost-Effective Meal Option: Budget-conscious? No problem! Affordable chicken and pantry staples combine to create a dish that feels indulgent without breaking the bank.

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Pasta in a Slow Cooker

Making a tasty crockpot chicken pasta starts with the right ingredients. It's great that you can add both must-haves and optional extras. This way, you can make an easy crockpot chicken pasta that everyone will love.

Essential Ingredients for the Recipe

First, here are the key ingredients for my creamy chicken pasta:

2 pounds of chicken (breasts or thighs)
12 ounces of pasta (penne or fusilli work well)
1 cup of heavy cream
1 cup of chicken broth
1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients to Enhance Flavor

To make my dish even better, I add some optional ingredients:

1 tablespoon of minced garlic
1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley
1 cup of diced vegetables (like bell peppers or spinach)
Red pepper flakes for a bit of heat

Choosing the Best Chicken Cut

Choosing the right chicken cut is important for flavor and tenderness. Here's how I pick:

Chicken Breasts: Lean and easy to shred, but can dry out if overcooked.
Chicken Thighs: Rich flavor and tender texture, but higher fat content.

Each chicken cut has its own benefits. This lets me tailor the dish to my taste. The mix of ingredients makes a creamy chicken pasta in a slow cooker that everyone will enjoy.

Instructions to Make Chicken Pasta in Crockpot

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Prepare the Base: Place chicken in the crockpot. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Add Liquid: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours (or high for 3-4 hours).
Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the crockpot.
Add Pasta and Cheese: Stir in pasta, shredded cheese, and any additional vegetables. Cook for another 20-30 minutes until the pasta is tender.
Finish and Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese. Serve hot.

Notes

Use chicken thighs for a richer flavor or chicken breasts for a leaner option.
To ensure pasta cooks evenly, add it later in the process.
For extra creaminess, stir in a dollop of cream cheese before serving.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 420
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 460mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g

This recipe is not only tasty but also budget-friendly. It lets me make a great meal for my family without spending a lot. With simple ingredients, I can make a dish that everyone loves. It's become a favorite in our home.

I really think you should try my chicken pasta in crockpot. It's perfect for busy lives and offers the comfort we all want. Give it a try, share it with me at Tales Of A Kitchen, and it might become a favorite at your dinner table too!

FAQs

Q: What is the best chicken cut to use for slow cooker chicken pasta?

A: I suggest using chicken thighs for my creamy chicken pasta crockpot recipe. They stay tender and juicy. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are also good if you want something leaner.

Q: Can I use other types of pasta in this easy crockpot chicken pasta recipe?

A: Yes, you can! I usually use penne or rotini, but try shells or fusilli too. Just remember, cooking times might change, so check if it's done.

Q: How can I make my slow cooker chicken pasta more flavorful?

A: To make my crockpot chicken pasta taste better, add garlic, onions, or bell peppers at the start. Sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving for a nice touch.

Q: Is it possible to freeze leftovers from my chicken pasta in crockpot?

A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Cool it down first, then put it in an airtight container. It'll keep in the freezer for about 3 months. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop when you're ready.

Q: How long does it take to cook this creamy chicken pasta in the slow cooker?

A: My easy crockpot chicken pasta cooks for about 6 hours on low. For a quicker option, cook it on high for 3 to 4 hours. Always check the chicken is cooked before serving.

Q: Can I add vegetables to my slow cooker chicken pasta recipe?

A: Yes, you can! I often add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. Add them in the last hour to keep them tender and vibrant. It makes the meal healthier too!

Easy Chicken Pasta in Crockpot Ready in 6 Hours

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 4 reviews

Author: TalesOfaKitchen
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Appetizers, Snacks and Sides
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

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Description

Whip up my simple chicken pasta in crockpot recipe at Tales Of A Kitchen for a creamy, flavorful meal that's perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners!