Description
This creamy slow cooker chicken pasta features tender shredded chicken, rich tomato sauce, and al dente pasta, making it a comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights. Easy to prepare and sure to satisfy the whole family!
Ingredients
Scale
- 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)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken breasts, ensuring even coverage.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Pour the can of diced tomatoes (with juices) over the chicken.
- Add the tomato sauce and chicken broth, stirring gently to combine.
- If using spinach, add it now or wait until the end for a fresher taste.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before cooking time is up, check the chicken for doneness (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir into the sauce.
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
- Drain the pasta and set aside, optionally tossing with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Add the heavy cream to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
- Gently fold in the cooked pasta, ensuring its well coated with the sauce. Add spinach if using.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and stir gently to combine.
- Let the dish sit in the slow cooker on warm for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Serve the chicken pasta in bowls, garnished with fresh basil if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious slow cooker chicken pasta dish!
Notes
- For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for meal prep.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes