Are you craving a warm, comforting meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This crockpot chicken and pasta recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a delicious, healthy, and satisfying dish that requires minimal effort. Say goodbye to complicated cooking and hello to a simple, homemade meal the whole family will love. This recipe is packed with flavor and perfect for those seeking easy recipes, quick dinner ideas, or simply delicious dishes for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Crockpot: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker.
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Add the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the diced tomatoes (undrained), cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
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Cook the Chicken: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
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Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
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Add the Pasta: Stir in the uncooked pasta. If your pasta is particularly long, you can break it in half before adding to prevent it from getting tangled in the crockpot. Ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the sauce.
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Continue Cooking: Continue cooking on low for another 30-45 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Serve: Serve immediately, topped with shredded Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Veggie boost: Include chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, or zucchini along with the chicken. Add them during the initial cooking phase.
- Creamy variation: Use heavy cream instead of some of the chicken broth for an extra creamy sauce.
- Cheese please: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or provolone.
- Leftovers: This dish makes excellent leftovers! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 (depending on pasta type and added cheese)
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This crockpot chicken and pasta recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals that are both delicious and easy to prepare. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner, offering a simple solution for homemade cooking without sacrificing taste or nutrition. It’s also a great option for those seeking the best recipes for a quick and satisfying meal. Enjoy!