Crockpot Italian Chicken Pasta
Using a slow cooker makes this meal not only convenient but also deeply flavorful.
Equipment
- Slow Cooker (Crockpot)
- Mixing Bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
- Cheese grater
- Knife and Cutting Board
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz about 3 cups uncooked penne or rotini pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
For the Chicken
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 jar 15 oz marinara sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional, for a little kick
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps it brown slightly and absorb more flavor.
- Season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Don’t be shy—this seasoning forms the flavor base for your crockpot pasta chicken.
- Pro tip: If you have time, let the chicken sit with the seasoning for 10–15 minutes. It makes the flavor even more delicious.
Step 2: Combine the Sauce Ingredients
- In a mixing bowl, add the diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
- Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Pro tip: Whisk continuously to prevent lumps and ensure a perfectly blended sauce.
Step 3: Layer Ingredients in the Crockpot
- Pour 1 cup of chicken broth into the bottom of the slow cooker. This keeps the chicken moist and infuses flavor.
- Place the seasoned chicken on top of the broth.
- Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the chicken.
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
- Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours, or on high for 2–3 hours.
- Check for doneness: the chicken should be tender and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Add the Pasta
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the uncooked pasta to the crockpot.
- Pour the remaining chicken broth over the pasta and gently stir to combine.
- Cover and cook until the pasta is tender, usually 20–25 minutes.
- Pro tip: Stir halfway through to prevent the pasta from sticking together or clumping.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Serve
- Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
- Cover for 5 minutes to let the cheese melt into that creamy, dreamy sauce.
- Stir gently before serving.
Notes
Nutritional Value (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 450–500 kcal
- Protein: 35–38 g
- Carbohydrates: 40–45 g
- Fat: 18–22 g
- Saturated Fat: 9–11 g
- Fiber: 3–4 g
- Sugar: 6–8 g
- Sodium: 800–900 mg