Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta

This Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that will make any dinner feel special. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this dish combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce and pasta. The slow cooker makes it incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply dump the ingredients into the crock pot and let it cook—no fuss, no mess!
• Rich Flavor Profile: Enjoy a blend of savory chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy goodness that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Versatile Meal: This dish pairs well with many types of pasta and can easily be adjusted to include your favorite vegetables.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy dinner for two, this recipe fits all scenarios beautifully.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: The creamy sauce and hearty ingredients create a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking while developing rich flavors over time.
• Cutting board and knife: Essential for safely preparing your ingredients before cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accuracy when adding spices and liquids for perfect results every time.

Ingredients

For this scrumptious Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Base

• 1 ½ lb chicken
• 2-3 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp sea salt and pepper (adjust to your preference)

For the Cream Sauce

• 1 c heavy cream
• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
• ¾ c chicken broth
• ¾ c parmesan cheese (grated)
• 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley

For the Vegetables

• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• ½ cup Italian herb sun-dried tomatoes (excess oil removed)
• 8 oz sliced mushrooms
• 3 oz baby spinach

For the Pasta

• 3/4 lb short pasta (we love penne or rotini)
• ¼ c chopped basil

How to Make Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel.
2. Place them in the bottom of a lightly oiled crock pot.
3. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, sea salt, and pepper over the chicken.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Sauce

1. Layer sliced mushrooms and sun-dried tomatoes on top of the seasoned chicken.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, softened cream cheese, and chicken broth; mix until smooth.
3. Pour this cream sauce over the chicken and other ingredients in the crock pot, ensuring everything is well covered.

Step 3: Cook on Low

1. Cover your crock pot and cook on LOW for about 3-4 hours.
2. Check on it after about 2 hours to ensure proper cooking; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 4: Shred Chicken and Add Spinach

1. Once cooked through, shred or cube the chicken as desired.
2. Stir in baby spinach and chopped fresh basil; allow them to wilt into the mixture.

Step 5: Cook Your Pasta

1. While the chicken mixture finishes up cooking, boil your chosen pasta until al dente according to package instructions.
2. Drain pasta and stir it into the crock pot mixture; combine well before serving.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta topped with extra fresh basil and parmesan!

How to Serve Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta

Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. You can enhance your meal by pairing it with various sides or garnishes that complement its rich flavors.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Basil: Sprinkle extra chopped basil on top just before serving for a burst of freshness.
• Parsley: Adds a pop of color and a mild flavor that balances the creaminess of the dish.

Add a Crunchy Element

• Toasted Pine Nuts: Scatter toasted pine nuts over the pasta for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: A sprinkle of panko breadcrumbs (toasted) can add texture and contrast to the creamy sauce.

Pair with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Breadsticks: Crisp breadsticks are great for dipping into the flavorful sauce.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta

To ensure your Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Tender Chicken: Always opt for fresh chicken breasts for the best texture and flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust seasonings like salt and pepper just before serving for optimal flavor.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Check on your dish after 2 hours to prevent overcooking, as slow cooker times may vary.
• Stir Gently: When mixing in spinach or any other ingredients, stir gently to avoid breaking apart the chicken too much.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta

Complement your meal with some tasty side dishes that balance out the rich flavors of your Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta.

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing and croutons adds freshness.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy crunch that pairs well with creamy pasta.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender provides great color and taste.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add brightness to your plate.
5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside pasta.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter option, serve spiralized zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil as a refreshing side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using a Crock Pot can be simple, but there are some common mistakes that can affect your Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta. Here are a few pitfalls to watch for:

• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always ensure your meat is well-seasoned with herbs and spices before cooking.
• Overcrowding the Crock Pot: Adding too many ingredients can prevent even cooking. Stick to the recipe’s proportions for the best results.
• Not Checking Temperature: Skipping the temperature check of the chicken may result in undercooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
• Forgetting to Stir: Not stirring occasionally can lead to uneven cooking, especially with creamy sauces. Stir gently midway through cooking for consistency.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Omitting fresh herbs like basil and parsley can diminish flavor. Always add fresh toppings just before serving for vibrant taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta:

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute with various short pasta options like fusilli or farfalle. Adjust cooking times as needed based on the pasta type.

How do I make this recipe lighter?

To lighten this dish, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese and substituting half-and-half for heavy cream. This will maintain creaminess while lowering calories.

What can I add for extra flavor?

You can enhance flavors by adding additional vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini. Experimenting with different herbs like thyme or oregano can also elevate taste.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts; however, be sure to increase the cooking time by an hour on low heat.

How do I customize my Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap out proteins like turkey or beef for variety. You can also adjust seasonings based on personal preference.

Final Thoughts

This Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that makes it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have at home, making it not only delicious but also practical. Give it a try and enjoy a hearty meal that brings everyone together!