chicken and pasta crock pot recipe
The Best chicken and pasta crock pot recipe
I’ve been making this chicken and pasta in the crock pot for years, and it’s become one of my go-to meals—both for simple weeknight dinners and when I need something hearty for family gatherings. There’s something about slow-cooked chicken that just melts into the pasta and sauce, making every bite tender and flavorful without any fuss. My kids—especially my picky one—always asks for seconds because it’s so easy to eat, and honestly, I don’t blame them. It’s got that perfect balance of protein, carbs, and just enough seasoning to make it feel like a restaurant-style meal without the stress of cooking from scratch. Plus, it’s always ready when I need it, whether I’m feeding a hungry family or just want something comforting after a long day.
What I love most about this recipe is how adaptable it is. I’ll swap out the pasta shape depending on what’s in the pantry or what the kids are in the mood for, and the chicken absorbs all the flavors seamlessly. It’s also a great way to use up whatever veggies are on hand—whether it’s zucchini, bell peppers, or even just onions—without worrying about overcooking them. And because it’s slow-cooked, the nutrients stay intact, making it a decent meal option if you’re watching what you eat, though I still indulge in the extra garlic and herbs. My family loves it because it’s filling, not greasy, and it’s always a hit when we’re hosting a small get-together or just need something quick and satisfying. It’s that kind of recipe that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Easy Chicken and Pasta Crock Pot Recipe
A comforting, hands-off meal featuring tender chicken, creamy pasta, and savory tomato sauce, all simmered in a slow cooker for effortless flavor. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or rotini)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14.5 oz) can tomato sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
👨🍳Directions
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1 In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook until golden (5-6 mins per side). Remove and set aside.
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2 In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until soft (~3 mins). Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, basil, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 mins.
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3 In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan. Stir well.
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4 Transfer the mixture to the crock pot. Cook on LOW for 2 hours or HIGH for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Add butter at the end if desired.
🔧Equipment
- Crock Pot
- Large skillet
- Knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Easy Chicken and Pasta Crock Pot Recipe Works
This chicken and pasta crock pot recipe is always a lifesaver for family gatherings because it’s simple enough to make ahead of time while keeping the meal hands-off and stress-free. It holds up well in the slow cooker, making it perfect for busy evenings when you need a hearty, comforting dish that everyone will love—whether you’re hosting a small get-together or feeding a big group. Plus, the flavors meld together beautifully, ensuring a delicious result without any last-minute cooking chaos.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken and Pasta Crock Pot
1. What is the best type of pasta to use in this chicken and pasta crock pot recipe? The best pasta choices for this recipe are short, starchy varieties like penne, fusilli, or rotini—they hold up well in the liquid and absorb flavors beautifully. If you prefer longer pasta, fettuccine or spaghetti can work, but you may need to add a little extra broth to prevent sticking.
2. How long should the chicken and pasta simmer in the crock pot for the perfect texture? For tender chicken and al dente pasta, cook on Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours, depending on your crock pot’s size and the cut of chicken (whole chicken takes longer than chicken thighs or breasts). Always check the pasta’s doneness—it’s ready when it’s slightly firm but tender when bitten.
3. Can I substitute any of the ingredients in this recipe, and if so, what are the best swaps? – Chicken: Yes! Use chicken thighs (boneless, skinless) for juicier results or rotisserie chicken for convenience. For a vegetarian version, swap chicken for chickpeas, mushrooms, or tofu. – Broth: Low-sodium or homemade broth works well, but you can also use chicken stock with a splash of water if needed. – Pasta: If you don’t have penne, farfalle (bowtie) or macaroni work fine. For a gluten-free option, try rice or chickpea pasta. – Garlic & herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can replace dried, and you can adjust quantities based on preference.
4. Why does my pasta turn mushy when cooking in the crock pot, and how can I prevent it? Pasta turns mushy when it absorbs too much liquid or cooks too long. To fix it: – Use shorter cooking times (check pasta’s package for al dente time) and adjust by adding a little extra broth if needed. – Avoid overcrowding the crock pot—leave space for steam to escape. – If using a large batch, cook in two batches to prevent overcooking. – For extra crispiness, toss cooked pasta with olive oil and Parmesan after draining.
5. What’s the best way to reheat the leftovers to keep them flavorful and avoid soggy pasta? To reheat without drying out the chicken or making pasta mushy: – Stovetop method: Heat a pot with a splash of water or broth, add the leftovers, and stir occasionally for 5–7 minutes until heated through. – Crock pot method: Place the leftovers in the crock pot and cook on Low for 1–2 hours (or High for 30–45 minutes). – Air fryer method: Lightly spray with oil and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5–8 minutes until hot. – Add fresh herbs or a splash of pasta water before reheating to restore moisture and flavor.
