This Crockpot Chicken Pasta is super easy to make! Just toss some chicken, pasta, and your favorite sauce into the slow cooker, and let it do the work for you. Yum!
The best part? It’s all one pot, so cleanup is a breeze! I love serving it with a sprinkle of cheese on top. Don’t forget the garlic bread—it’s a must! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. You can use thighs if you prefer more flavor or even a mix of both. If you’re vegetarian, consider using chickpeas or a meat alternative.
Pasta: Penne works well because its shape holds sauces nicely. If you don’t have penne, try rotini or fusilli for a fun twist! Gluten-free pasta can also be used if needed.
Creamy Sauce: Alfredo sauce adds a rich flavor, but feel free to use marinara for a lighter option. If you’re looking for dairy-free, there are several vegan sauces available that taste amazing!
Cheese: Cheddar cheese gives creaminess, and you can swap it for mozzarella or a dairy-free cheese. Grated Parmesan on top adds a nice touch but can be left out if you’re avoiding dairy.
How Do You Get Perfectly Shredded Chicken from a Crockpot?
The trick to getting perfectly shredded chicken is cooking it long enough for it to become tender. Once done, use two forks to pull it apart. Here’s how:
- Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Use two forks and pull apart the chicken in opposite directions.
- If it’s not shredding easily, it may need a bit more cook time.
Remember to return the shredded chicken back to the pot to soak up all those delicious sauces!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Pasta in a Crockpot?
Cooking pasta directly in the crockpot is simple if done right. Here’s how:
- Add uncooked pasta to the crockpot with enough liquid—about 1 to 2 cups extra broth or sauce.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Check for doneness at the 30-minute mark, adding more liquid if needed.
This method keeps the pasta perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor from the sauce!
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 16 oz penne pasta (uncooked)
- 1 (16 oz) jar creamy pasta sauce or Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take approximately 10 minutes to prepare, plus cooking time of about 4 to 6 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high in the crockpot. After everything is cooked and combined, you’ll need another 30 to 45 minutes on high to finish the pasta. Relax and let the crockpot do the work while you enjoy the aromas from your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot. Season them evenly with garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This will ensure the chicken is flavorful as it cooks.
2. Adding the Sauce:
Next, pour the jar of your favorite creamy pasta sauce (or Alfredo sauce) and the chicken broth over the seasoned chicken. This mixture will create a yummy base for the pasta later on.
3. Cooking the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot and cook on the low setting for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know the chicken is done when it’s cooked through and easy to shred with a fork!
4. Shredding the Chicken:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Don’t worry if it looks a little messy; that’s part of the charm!
5. Combining Ingredients:
Now, return the shredded chicken to the crockpot. Add the uncooked penne pasta, cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Stir everything together gently, ensuring the pasta is well coated in the sauce.
6. Cooking the Pasta:
Cover the crockpot again and cook on high for an additional 30 to 45 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid any sticking, and check the pasta for doneness. It should be tender and cooked through.
7. Serving:
Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, scoop the creamy chicken pasta into bowls. For a beautiful finish, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, and grated Parmesan cheese.
8. Enjoy!
Dig in while it’s warm! This comforting meal is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite of your homemade Crockpot Chicken Pasta!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just ensure the chicken is fully thawed before cooking. If you start with frozen chicken, it will need more cooking time. Make sure to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
What Can I Substitute for the Alfredo Sauce?
If you don’t have Alfredo sauce on hand, you can use marinara sauce or a homemade creamy sauce made with cream and Parmesan cheese. A dairy-free cream sauce works well too if you’re looking for a plant-based option!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it moist.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can toss in veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking. Just make sure they are cut into smaller pieces so they cook evenly!
