Are you craving a delicious, comforting meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further than this Chicken Crockpot Pasta recipe! This hearty dish is perfect for busy weeknights, effortless entertaining, or simply satisfying a craving for a flavorful, homemade meal. Forget complicated instructions and long cooking times; this recipe uses the magic of your slow cooker to deliver tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta in one convenient pot. It's a true champion among quick dinner ideas and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (16 ounce) package pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape works well)
- 1 (24 ounce) jar pasta sauce (your favorite kind – marinara, Alfredo, etc.)
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
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Prep the Ingredients: Begin by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Set aside. Rinse the pasta briefly under cold water; you don't need to cook it beforehand.
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Layer the Crockpot: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Top with the chopped onion, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
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Add the Sauce and Liquids: Pour the pasta sauce, diced tomatoes (undrained), and chicken broth over the chicken and seasonings. Gently stir to combine.
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Add the Pasta: Add the uncooked pasta to the slow cooker. Stir gently to ensure the pasta is mostly submerged in the sauce.
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Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the pasta is tender. The cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker. Check for doneness by ensuring the chicken is no longer pink and the pasta is cooked al dente.
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Shred and Serve: Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks. Stir everything together to combine the chicken and pasta. If desired, stir in the mozzarella cheese during the last 15 minutes of cooking time for a cheesy finish. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Crockpot Pasta:
- Don't overcook the pasta: The cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker and the type of pasta you use. Start checking for doneness around the minimum cooking time to prevent mushy pasta.
- Use your favorite pasta sauce: Feel free to experiment with different pasta sauces to customize the flavor to your liking. Creamy Alfredo sauce or a spicy arrabbiata are delicious alternatives.
- Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach during the last hour of cooking.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve this hearty dish with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary.
- Spicy Chicken Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Chicken Pasta: Stir in a cup of heavy cream or cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 (depending on ingredients and serving size)
- Protein: Around 30-40g
- Fat: Around 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Around 40-50g
This easy recipe for Chicken Crockpot Pasta is a simple yet satisfying weeknight dinner option that is perfect for busy families. Enjoy this delicious and healthy meal! It's one of the best recipes for a flavorful, homemade dinner. This easy and healthy meal is sure to become a family favorite. These simple food recipes are perfect for homemade cooking.