So you’re craving something tasty but too lazy to spend forever in the kitchen, huh? Same
Well, my friend, have I got a treat for you! Allow me to introduce you to the ultimate lazy-day dinner hero: creamy chicken pasta made in a crockpot. This dish is delicious enough to make you feel like a culinary genius, yet simple enough to let you continue your Netflix binge-watching marathon. Seriously, it’s like the slow cooker took over the kitchen so you can put your feet up and relax.
Why This Recipe is Awesome
First off, let me tell you why this creamy chicken pasta is a game-changer. It is so ridiculously easy that even my cat tried to make it (and almost succeeded). With just a handful of ingredients, a bit of patience, and a crockpot, you can whip up a meal that feels gourmet without all that pesky chopping and simmering.
You want comfort food that won’t make you sweat? This one’s for you. It’s a hug in a bowl, and if you’ve got a hungry crowd to feed or you just want leftovers to stock your fridge, this recipe has got your back. Plus, the cleaning up afterward is a breeze. No one likes doing dishes, so thank fingers crossed for the one-pot method!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Time to roll up your sleeves and gather your supplies. Here’s what you need for your creamy chicken pasta:
- 1 pound chicken breasts (get the good stuff, you know you want it)
- 2 cups pasta (penne or rotini—just don’t be a weirdo and use spaghetti)
- 1 cup chicken broth (the more flavorful, the better)
- 1 cup heavy cream (because we’re not here to make salad)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (don’t skimp! Go big or go home)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (let’s pretend we’re in Italy)
- Salt and pepper to taste (like a sprinkle of magic)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (because you’re fancy like that)
Now, if you don’t already have half of these ingredients, it might be time to hit the grocery store or channel your inner pantry magician and improvise.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Okay, let’s dive into the how-to. Put on your imaginary chef’s hat, and let’s get cooking:
In a crockpot, add the chicken breasts, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Seriously, just toss everything in like you’re free-styling in the kitchen.
Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through. Make sure you set the timer so you won’t forget it. That would be embarrassing.
Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the crockpot. You know, the whole “shredding the chicken” thing? Super therapeutic.
Stir in the heavy cream and pasta. Give it a good mix so everything gets to know each other real well.
Cook on high for another 30 minutes or until the pasta is tender. Smell that? That’s the aroma of dinner success, my friend.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese before serving. Because when is there ever a bad time for cheese?
Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy! Snap a cute pic for the ‘Gram if you feel like it. Your friends will be impressed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Now that your meal is almost ready, let’s chat about some common oopsies. I’d hate for you to ruin your delicious creation.
- Ignoring the slow cooking times: It’s not a race, people. Let that chicken and pasta hang out in the crockpot for just the right amount of time. If you pull it too soon, you will regret it.
- Not shredding the chicken well: Shredding is essential for flavor distribution. If you just throw whole pieces back in, you won’t get that creamy goodness all over the pasta.
- Being stingy with the cheese: Why would anyone do this? Life is too short for low cheese levels. Get crazy with it.
- Forgetting to taste: Seriously, it’s like trying to drive a car blindfolded. You must know what you’re working with. Salt and pepper are your best friends here.
Alternatives & Substitutions
Listen, sometimes life gets in the way, and you may not have all the ingredients. No biggie. Here are some alternatives worth considering:
- Swap out chicken breasts for chicken thighs. They’re juicier and deliver extra flavor.
- Whole wheat pasta can replace regular pasta for the health-conscious peeps—who said healthy can’t be delicious?
- No heavy cream? Try using half-and-half or even Greek yogurt for a tangy flair. Just adjust those cooking times slightly.
- Bored of Italian seasoning? Go wild with some taco seasoning for a fiesta twist.
Your kitchen, your rules. Get creative!
FAQ
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Well, it should be cooked through and shred easily. If it still looks a bit raw, it probably needs a little more time. Keep an eye on it.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Sure, but cooking time might need to increase. Seriously, though, make sure it’s fully cooked.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely. Just make sure your crockpot can handle it. Don’t wanna blow a fuse mid-dinner, right?
What if I want more veggies?
Throw in some spinach or peas when you add the cream and pasta. You’ll feel like a kitchen wizard.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Oh yes. Prepping it the night before? You’re about to be the meal prep champ. Just pop it in your crockpot the next day.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Technically yes, but why hurt your soul like that? Butter is your friend.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it—your new go-to recipe for days when you’d rather wear sweatpants and eat with your hands than worry about fancy cooking techniques. Now go impress someone—or yourself—with your new culinary skills. You’ve earned it! Remember to just have fun in the kitchen and don’t stress it. Life’s too short for bad pasta, am I right? Happy cooking!
Print
Creamy Chicken Pasta
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Total Time: 375 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free pasta)
Description
A deliciously creamy chicken pasta made in a crockpot that’s easy enough for a lazy day but tastes gourmet.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breasts
- 2 cups pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a crockpot, add the chicken breasts, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the crockpot.
- Stir in the heavy cream and pasta, mixing well.
- Cook on high for another 30 minutes or until the pasta is tender.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese before serving and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
Do not rush the cooking time, and make sure to shred the chicken well for flavor distribution.