Crockpot Chicken Pasta is an easy and tasty meal that cooks on its own! Simply toss in chicken, pasta, sauce, and your favorite veggies, then let the slow cooker do the magic.
It’s perfect for busy days when you want a warm and filling dish without much fuss. I love to come home and smell this delicious dinner waiting for me, it’s like a warm hug! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their tenderness. If you’re looking for alternatives, boneless, skinless thighs work too! They add a richer flavor.
Chicken Broth: For a lighter dish, use low-sodium chicken broth. Alternatively, vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option, or even water if you’re in a pinch.
Alfredo Sauce: A jarred sauce is super convenient, but if you prefer homemade, that’s great! Use cream, butter, and Parmesan. Store-bought sauces vary in flavor, so pick one you love!
Pasta: While penne is a classic, feel free to swap with fusilli or farfalle. Just remember to adjust the cooking time as needed, especially for larger shapes!
Red Pepper Flakes: These offer a little kick! If you’re not a fan of heat, leave them out. Alternatively, a pinch of smoked paprika adds flavor without heat.
How Do I Get the Chicken Just Right?
Getting the chicken perfect in a crockpot requires some timing. Start with fresh or thawed chicken for best results. Cook it on low for about 4 hours; longer can make it dry.
- Check if the chicken is cooked by ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Shred gently—using two forks works best. This keeps it tender and allows the flavors to meld nicely when you stir it back in.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Pasta in the Crockpot?
Cooking the pasta right in the sauce with the chicken makes it super flavorful! Just remember:
- Add the pasta during the last 30-40 minutes of cooking.
- Stir it occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure it cooks evenly!
- If the sauce thickens too much, you can add a splash of extra broth or water.
Enjoy your delicious Crockpot Chicken Pasta! It’s a cozy meal that brings everyone together.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 (16 oz) jar Alfredo sauce (or homemade)
- 8 oz penne pasta (uncooked)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for mild heat)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 4 hours of slow cooking on low for the chicken, plus an additional 30-40 minutes on high once the pasta is added. Overall, give yourself around 4 hours and 40 minutes to make this comforting dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken
Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. This is the base of your dish, so make sure they’re all in a single layer for even cooking.
2. Add the Broth and Spices
Next, pour in the chicken broth. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice. Stir gently to mix the seasonings.
3. Cook the Chicken
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for about 4 hours, or until the chicken is tender enough to easily shred. The aroma will fill your kitchen!
4. Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot using tongs. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces, then return it to the crockpot so it can soak up all those delicious flavors.
5. Mix in the Alfredo Sauce
Add the jar of Alfredo sauce to your chicken and stir it well until everything is nicely combined. This will make the pasta creamy and tasty!
6. Add the Pasta
Add the uncooked penne pasta to the crockpot, stirring it in well so all the pasta gets coated with the sauce. Don’t worry about cooking the pasta separately; it will cook right in the sauce!
7. Cook the Pasta
Cover the crockpot again and switch it to high heat. Cook for an additional 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to make sure the pasta doesn’t stick. Keep an eye on it to see when the pasta is tender!
8. Stir in Parmesan
Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts and becomes creamy. This cheese will take the dish to the next level!
9. Taste and Adjust
Give your dish a taste. If you’d like, add more salt or pepper to adjust the flavor to your liking. It’s all about making it perfect for you!
10. Garnish and Serve
Serve your warm Crockpot Chicken Pasta in bowls or on plates, garnishing each serving with fresh chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Enjoy this delicious comfort food!
With these easy steps, your creamy, comforting Crockpot Chicken Pasta will be ready to devour. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts; just be sure to increase the cooking time by about 1-2 hours on low until they are fully cooked through and tender. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in your favorite vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli during the last 30-40 minutes of cooking to keep them vibrant and tender.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it gets too thick.
Can I Substitute the Alfredo Sauce?
Yes! If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can use a homemade version with cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese, or swap it for a tomato-based sauce. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if using a different type of sauce.
