If you’re looking for a delightful dinner that practically cooks itself, let me introduce you to my favorite chicken pasta crockpot recipe! Seriously, this dish is a game-changer for busy weeknights or when I’m just not feeling up for a lot of fuss in the kitchen. Just toss everything into the crockpot, and let it simmer away while you go about your day! The aroma that fills the house is absolutely mouthwatering, and the best part? You get tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta all in one pot. I love how versatile it is, too—feel free to toss in any veggies you have lying around. Trust me, once you try this simple and flavorful dish, you’ll want to make it a regular on your meal prep list!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this chicken pasta crockpot recipe a success! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups of uncooked pasta – I usually go for penne or rotini, but any pasta you love will work!
- 1 pound of chicken breast – Boneless, skinless is best for this recipe. You can even use frozen chicken if you’re in a pinch!
- 1 jar of marinara sauce – Choose your favorite brand or homemade if you’re feeling ambitious. The flavor is key!
- 1 cup of chicken broth – This adds depth to the dish. You can use low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
- 1 cup of shredded cheese – I love using mozzarella for that gooey, melty finish, but feel free to mix it up!
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning – This gives the dish that classic Italian flair. You can adjust it based on your taste!
- Salt and pepper to taste – Always essential to bring out those flavors!
That’s it! Simple ingredients that come together to create a comforting, hearty meal. Let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Chicken Pasta in a Crockpot
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the simple steps to whip up this delicious chicken pasta in your crockpot! Don’t worry—this is so straightforward that even on those busy days, you’ll feel like a kitchen superstar!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, place the chicken breast at the bottom of your crockpot. This is where the magic begins!
- Next, pour the marinara sauce and chicken broth over the chicken. Make sure to cover it well; it’s going to keep everything juicy and flavorful!
- Now, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, and add salt and pepper to taste. Give it a little stir to combine those flavors.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours. This is when your kitchen will start to smell heavenly, so get ready for that delicious aroma!
- After 6 hours, it’s time to add the uncooked pasta. Stir it in gently, ensuring all the pasta is submerged in that lovely sauce.
- Cover again and cook for an additional 30 minutes. This will allow the pasta to cook through and soak up all that flavor.
- Finally, just before serving, top with shredded cheese and let it melt into gooey goodness. Yum!
And there you have it! A fuss-free, satisfying meal ready to be enjoyed. I can’t wait for you to try this—trust me, it’s going to become a favorite in your household!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the scoop on the nutritional values for this delicious chicken pasta crockpot recipe! Keep in mind that these numbers are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use. But it gives you a good idea of what you’re serving up:
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 800mg
This hearty dish is not only satisfying but also packed with protein to keep you fueled throughout your day. Enjoy every flavorful bite, knowing it’s a comforting meal that hits the spot!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just a little bit of chopping and measuring, you can set this dish up in no time. Perfect for those busy days!
- Easy Cleanup: Since everything cooks in one pot, there’s minimal mess to deal with afterward. More time to relax and enjoy your meal!
- Delicious Flavors: The slow cooking allows the chicken to absorb all those rich, savory flavors from the marinara sauce and spices. You won’t be able to resist seconds!
- Versatility: Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or mixing in different pasta types. The possibilities are endless!
- Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a comforting pasta dish, and this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your home!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep this dish in advance and let the crockpot do the work while you’re out and about. It’s a lifesaver for meal prep!
Trust me, once you give this chicken pasta crockpot recipe a whirl, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it! It’s a total winner in my book!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your chicken pasta crockpot recipe turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my top tips to help you nail it every time:
- Adjust Cooking Times: Every crockpot is a little different, so keep an eye on your dish as it cooks. If you’re using a newer model, you might find it cooks faster than older versions. Check the chicken at around the 5-hour mark to see if it’s tender and ready!
- Ingredient Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to switch things up! If you prefer turkey or even a meat alternative, go for it. You can also swap out the marinara sauce for alfredo or pesto if you’re craving a different flavor profile.
- Boost the Flavor: Want to take it up a notch? Add a splash of white wine or a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar to the sauce for a really rich flavor. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley added at the end can brighten everything up, too!
- Mix in Veggies: Get creative by adding veggies! Spinach, bell peppers, or even zucchini can be tossed in at the beginning. They’ll cook down beautifully and make the dish even more nutritious.
- Pasta Type Matters: While I love penne and rotini, you can experiment with different types of pasta. Just remember that whole grain or gluten-free varieties may have different cooking times, so adjust accordingly!
- Don’t Skip the Cheese: Seriously, topping your dish with shredded cheese right before serving is the best part! It makes everything creamy and delicious. Try mixing different cheeses together for a unique twist!
With these tips, you’ll be a crockpot champion in no time! I can’t wait for you to make this dish and enjoy all the scrumptiousness it brings to your table!
Variations of Chicken Pasta Crockpot Recipes
One of the best things about this chicken pasta crockpot recipe is how easily you can make it your own! Here are some fun variations to keep things exciting and delicious:
- Different Pasta Types: Swap out the traditional pasta for whole grain, gluten-free, or even fresh pasta if you want to elevate the dish. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to make sure everything turns out perfectly!
- Alternative Sauces: While marinara is a classic, don’t be afraid to experiment! Try a creamy alfredo sauce, a zesty pesto, or even a spicy arrabbiata for a flavor twist that suits your mood.
- Add Veggies: Boost the nutrition and flavor by tossing in your favorite veggies. Spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or even broccoli would all work wonderfully! Just add them in with the chicken to let them cook down and soak up those delicious flavors.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh or dried herbs can take your dish to the next level. Consider adding basil, oregano, or even thyme for an aromatic lift. You can toss them in with the chicken or sprinkle them on top just before serving.
- Protein Variations: If you’re feeling adventurous, try using different proteins! Turkey, sausage, or even a plant-based meat alternative can add new flavors and textures to the dish.
- Cheesy Goodness: Mix up the cheese blend! Instead of just mozzarella, try adding parmesan, cheddar, or even a spicy pepper jack to give your dish a little kick.
With these variations, you can create a new and delightful chicken pasta crockpot recipe every time you whip it up. Get creative and have fun in the kitchen—trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delicious chicken pasta in the crockpot and now you’ve got some leftovers—first of all, great job! This dish stores beautifully, and I’m here to guide you on how to keep it fresh and tasty for your next meal.
To store your leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help maintain that delicious flavor and texture! You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s sealed tightly. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just remember to label the container with the date, so you know when it was made.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, here’s how to reheat: if it’s frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge. For reheating, you can either pop it in the microwave or reheat it on the stovetop. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even warming. On the stovetop, just add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent it from drying out, and heat it over low until warmed through. Top with a little extra cheese if you’re feeling indulgent!
And there you have it! Simple storage and reheating instructions that keep your chicken pasta just as delightful as when it was first cooked. Happy eating!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your delicious chicken pasta ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to elevate your meal! Trust me, the right sides can turn a simple dish into a feast that everyone will love!
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with crispy, buttery garlic bread! It’s perfect for soaking up all that tasty sauce. You might even want to make a double batch—everyone will keep coming back for more!
- Fresh Salad: A light, refreshing salad is a fantastic complement to the hearty pasta. Think mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette. It adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the dish.
- Steamed Vegetables: Keep it simple with some steamed broccoli or green beans. Drizzle a bit of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon for a bright finish. It’s a great way to add color and nutrition to your plate!
- Caesar Salad: If you’re feeling a little fancy, whip up a classic Caesar salad! The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons pair beautifully with the flavors in the chicken pasta.
- Antipasto Platter: Set out an antipasto platter with olives, marinated artichokes, and slices of salami or prosciutto. It’s a lovely way to start your meal and adds a touch of Italian flair!
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss some seasonal veggies in the oven with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, and they make a colorful side that complements the pasta beautifully.
With these serving suggestions, you’ll have a delightful spread that makes your chicken pasta crockpot recipe even more special! Enjoy the meal and the company—it’s all part of the joy of cooking and sharing food!
Imprimer
Chicken Pasta Crockpot Recipes That Will Wow Your Family
- Temps Total: 6 hours 45 minutes
- Rendement: 4 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Sans Gluten
Description
A simple and delicious chicken pasta dish made in a crockpot.
Ingrédients
- 2 cups of uncooked pasta
- 1 pound of chicken breast
- 1 jar of marinara sauce
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1 cup of shredded cheese
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place the chicken breast at the bottom of the crockpot.
- Pour the marinara sauce and chicken broth over the chicken.
- Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.
- After 6 hours, add the uncooked pasta to the crockpot.
- Stir and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- Top with shredded cheese before serving.
Notes
- Adjust cooking time based on your crockpot model.
- Use whole grain pasta for a healthier option.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Catégorie: Main Dish
- Méthode: Crockpot
- Cuisine: Italian
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sucre: 4g
- De Sodium: 800mg
- La graisse: 14g
- Graisses Saturées: 7g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 5g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 52g
- La fibre: 3g
- La protéine: 30g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 75mg
Mots-clés: chicken pasta crockpot recipes
