Tired of complicated dinners that leave you stuck in the kitchen all evening? Craving a delicious, healthy, and satisfying meal without the fuss? Then you've come to the right place! This recipe for Chicken Pasta Crockpot is the ultimate answer for busy weeknights. It's a simple, flavorful dish that requires minimal effort and delivers maximum taste. Get ready to enjoy a homemade meal that tastes like it took hours, but only takes minutes to prepare.
Ingredients:
This recipe easily feeds 4-6 people, depending on appetites!
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 (16 ounce) package pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 (24 ounce) jar of your favorite pasta sauce (marinara, Alfredo, pesto – get creative!)
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (optional, for extra sauce)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Place the chopped onion and minced garlic in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Add the cubed chicken breasts on top of the onions and garlic.
- Pour the jar of pasta sauce and the can of diced tomatoes (undrained) over the chicken.
- Stir in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. If you like a saucier dish, add the chicken broth.
Cooking Time:
- 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. If using dried pasta, you'll want to use the low setting for a longer cook time. If you prefer using pre-cooked pasta, add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking time on low, or 15 on high, to heat it through and combine with the sauce.
Finishing Touches:
- Once the chicken is cooked and the pasta is tender, give everything a good stir. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips for the Best Chicken Pasta Crockpot:
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Choose your favorite pasta: This recipe works well with various pasta shapes. Experiment to find your favorite!
- Add vegetables: Boost the nutritional value and flavor by adding vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach during the last hour of cooking.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a creamier sauce.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta: Add the zest and juice of one lemon, along with fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary.
- Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta: Use a creamy tomato soup base instead of marinara sauce.
- Buffalo Chicken Pasta: Stir in some buffalo wing sauce for a spicy kick!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
This easy Chicken Pasta Crockpot recipe is a perfect example of delicious and healthy food recipes that are also quick dinner ideas. It's a great option for homemade cooking that everyone will enjoy! Enjoy this simple and satisfying meal!