Slow Cooker Chicken Pasta: Comfort in a Bowl!

Thank you so much for stopping by today! As I sit here sipping my morning coffee, I can’t help but feel incredibly grateful for the opportunity to share another heartwarming recipe with all of you. It’s you, my wonderful readers, who inspire me to keep exploring and sharing the comfort that food can bring into our lives. Today, I’m thrilled to introduce a recipe that epitomizes comfort and ease: Slow Cooker Chicken Pasta.

This dish is a perfect example of set-it-and-forget-it cooking, ideal for those busy days when you want a delicious meal waiting for you at home. I promised you versatile, and here’s proof! With minimal prep and the magic of a slow cooker, you can transform simple ingredients into a comforting dinner that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

For this hearty dish, you’ll need:

• Chicken breasts: 2 large, boneless and skinless
• Salt and pepper: To taste
• Italian seasoning: 2 teaspoons, for that herby touch
• Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon, for a hint of warmth
• Chicken broth: 1 cup, as the cooking liquid
• Cream cheese: 4 oz, cut into pieces, for creaminess
• Sundried tomatoes: ½ cup, chopped
• Spinach: 2 cups, fresh
• Penne pasta: 8 oz, uncooked
• Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, grated, for serving

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Pasta

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Place them at the bottom of your slow cooker.
2. Add liquids and cook: Pour the chicken broth over the chicken. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours.
3. Add cream cheese and tomatoes: Once the chicken is cooked and tender, add the cream cheese and sundried tomatoes. Stir until the cream cheese is well incorporated.
4. Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
5. Cook the pasta: About 30 minutes before serving, add the uncooked pasta and fresh spinach to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine. Continue cooking until the pasta is tender.
6. Final touches: Serve hot, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese.

Helpful Tips

• Avoid overcooking the pasta: To keep the pasta from becoming mushy, add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Thicken the sauce if needed: If the sauce is too thin after cooking, you can thicken it by adding a mixture of cornstarch and water.

Substitutions/Variations

• Meat alternatives: Swap chicken for turkey breasts or even chunks of pork for a different flavor.
• Vegan adaptation: Use plant-based cream cheese and chickpeas instead of chicken for a vegan version.
• Cheese options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella or a smoked gouda for a different taste profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but increase the initial cooking time by an hour if cooking on low.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave, adding a little water or broth to loosen the sauce if necessary.

More Relevant Recipes

If you loved this slow cooker recipe, check out these too:

• Candied Jalapenos (Sweet & Spicy) Recipe
• Marry Me Chicken

Thank you again for joining me in this culinary adventure! I hope this Slow Cooker Chicken Pasta brings as much warmth and satisfaction to your table as it does to mine. Remember, cooking is not just about feeding the body but also comforting the soul. Dive in, and let’s make something delicious together!

Print