Slow Cooker Chicken Pasta Dish: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Busy Weeknights

Slow Cooker Chicken Pasta Dish is a delightful meal that brings comfort and convenience to your dinner table. As someone who loves to experiment with flavors, I find that this recipe not only satisfies my cravings but also allows me to enjoy the rich history of Italian cuisine. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a medley of aromatic herbs creates a symphony of taste and texture that is hard to resist.

People adore this dish for its simplicity and the way it fills the home with an inviting aroma as it simmers away in the slow cooker. The beauty of the Slow Cooker Chicken Pasta Dish lies in its versatility; you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply looking for a quick weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress. Join me as we dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will make your taste buds dance!

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini work well)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Chicken

1. Start by rinsing the chicken breasts under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture and ensures that the seasoning sticks well. 2. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. This will be our seasoning blend for the chicken. 3. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken breasts, making sure to coat them evenly. This step is crucial as it infuses the chicken with flavor while it cooks.

Setting Up the Slow Cooker

4. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Make sure they are spread out evenly to allow for even cooking. 5. Pour the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices) over the chicken. The acidity from the tomatoes will help to tenderize the chicken as it cooks. 6. Next, add the tomato sauce and chicken broth. Stir gently to combine the ingredients without disturbing the chicken too much. 7. If you’re using spinach, you can add it now or wait until the end. I like to add it at the end to keep it fresh and vibrant.

Cooking the Chicken

8. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. I usually opt for the low setting as it allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and flavorful. 9. About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, check the chicken. If it’s cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F), you can proceed to the next step. If not, let it continue cooking.

Preparing the Pasta

10. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. It should fall apart easily if it’s cooked properly. 11. Return the shredded chicken back to the slow cooker, stirring it into the sauce to combine. 12. Now, it’s time to cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. 13. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside. You can toss it with a little olive oil to prevent it from sticking together.

Combining Everything

14. In the slow cooker, add the heavy cream to the chicken and sauce mixture. Stir well to combine. The cream will add a rich, velvety texture to the dish. 15. Gently fold in the cooked pasta, making sure it’s well coated with the sauce. If you’re using spinach, now is the time to add it. Stir until the spinach wilts slightly. 16. Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and give it a gentle stir. The cheese will melt into the sauce, adding even more flavor.

Serving the Dish

17. Once everything is combined, let the dish sit in the slow cooker for an additional 10-15 minutes on the warm setting. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. 18. When you’re ready to serve, scoop the chicken pasta into bowls. I love to garnish mine with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor. 19. Enjoy your delicious slow cooker chicken pasta dish! It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead.

Storage Tips

20. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much. 21

Conclusion:

In summary, this Slow Cooker Chicken Pasta Dish is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to simplify their dinner routine without sacrificing flavor. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, savory sauce creates a comforting meal that is sure to please the whole family. Plus, the convenience of the slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this dish with a fresh side salad or some garlic bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, or even swapping out the chicken for shrimp or sausage for a different twist. I encourage you to give this Slow Cooker Chicken Pasta Dish a try and make it your own! Once you’ve tasted the delightful flavors and enjoyed the ease of preparation, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, variations, or any tips you discover along the way. Happy cooking!

Print