Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that doesn't require hours in the kitchen? Then this Chicken Pasta Crock Pot recipe is your answer! This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a comforting and flavorful dish with minimal effort. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best – simple, satisfying, and perfect for the whole family. Get ready to enjoy a quick dinner idea that's packed with flavor!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 (16 ounce) package pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 (24 ounce) jar pasta sauce (your favorite flavor)
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Combine ingredients: In your slow cooker, combine the chicken, pasta sauce, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
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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. Stir halfway through cooking for even heating and to prevent sticking.
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Check for doneness: The chicken should be cooked through and easily shreddable with a fork. The pasta should be al dente. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth to thin it out.
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Serve: Once cooked, stir in the Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves, if desired. This delicious and healthy meal is ready to enjoy!
Tips and Tricks for the Best Crock Pot Chicken Pasta:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Overcooked pasta can become mushy. If you're using a different type of pasta, you may need to adjust the cooking time. Always check for doneness before serving.
- Use your favorite pasta sauce: Feel free to experiment with different pasta sauce flavors to find your perfect combination. Spicy marinara, creamy Alfredo, or even a pesto sauce would work beautifully.
- Add vegetables: Boost the nutritional value and flavor by adding other vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. Add these alongside the other ingredients.
- Shred the chicken: For an even more tender texture, shred the cooked chicken before serving.
Variations:
- Creamy Chicken Pasta: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Cheesy Chicken Pasta: Add a cup of your favorite shredded cheese during the last hour of cooking for extra cheesiness.
- Spicy Chicken Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a recipe yielding 6 servings and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
This easy chicken pasta crock pot recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. It’s a simple yet delicious dish that everyone in the family will love. Enjoy!