This Crockpot Chicken Pasta is a dream for busy days! Just toss in chicken, pasta, and your favorite sauce, and let it cook slowly until everything is yummy and tender.
I love how easy this meal is! Just set it and forget it, then enjoy a warm, comforting dish that makes dinner feel special—even if you didn’t lift a finger!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I like using boneless, skinless chicken because it cooks nicely and shreds easily. If you’re in a pinch, thighs would work too, and they add a bit more flavor.
Chicken Broth: This adds depth and moisture to the dish. Low-sodium broth is a great option if you’re watching salt intake! You can also use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
Heavy Cream: For a rich and creamy sauce, heavy cream is my go-to. Half-and-half works well too if you want something lighter, but it may not be as thick.
Ranch Seasoning: The ranch mix adds a ton of flavor! If you don’t have it, Italian seasoning or a mix of dried herbs can be a great substitute.
Pasta: I recommend penne for its ability to hold sauce, but feel free to swap for rotini or fusilli for a fun twist!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Tender and Shreddable?
Cooking chicken to the right level of tenderness is key to this recipe. Here’s what to do:
- Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours—trust your timing.
- Check for doneness by piercing the thickest part; it should be at least 165°F.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it using two forks—this is a fun step!
Remember, if it’s still tough, it might need a bit more time in the crockpot. Just keep an eye on it!
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Pasta in the Crockpot?
Getting the pasta right can be tricky, but here’s how to do it:
- Add the uncooked pasta after mixing in the shredded chicken and cheeses.
- Spread the pasta evenly but avoid stirring at this point—this helps it cook evenly.
- Cover and cook on high for 30-45 minutes, stirring halfway to prevent sticking.
Once it’s cooked and creamy, give it a nice stir to incorporate all the flavors, and you’re good to go!
Crockpot Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Seasonings:
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pasta and Cheese:
- 12 oz penne pasta (uncooked)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, followed by 4-5 hours of low cooking or 2-3 hours on high. Just let the crockpot do the work, and you’ll have a comforting meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Add the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. This will be the base of your flavorful dish!
2. Pour in the Broth:
Carefully pour the chicken broth over the chicken. This adds moisture and depth of flavor to your dish.
3. Season the Chicken:
Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over the chicken and broth. This adds all the delicious flavor!
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender when it’s done.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
6. Mix in Cream and Cheese:
Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot. Stir in the heavy cream, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese until everything is well combined.
7. Add the Pasta:
Spread the uncooked penne pasta evenly over the chicken mixture. Avoid stirring just yet to ensure even cooking.
8. Cook the Pasta:
Cover the crockpot again and cook on high for an additional 30-45 minutes. Stir halfway through to prevent pasta from sticking.
9. Combine and Serve:
Once the pasta is tender and everything is creamy, give it a good stir to combine all the ingredients. Taste and adjust any seasonings if needed.
10. Add the Finishing Touches:
Serve the pasta hot, garnished with red pepper flakes and fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and comforting Crockpot Chicken Pasta that’s both easy to prepare and perfect for any busy day! It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just be sure to add an additional hour to the cooking time on low, or 30 minutes on high, to ensure it cooks through completely. Make sure to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Creamier?
If you’re looking for an even creamier sauce, consider adding an extra half cup of heavy cream or additional cheese. You can also include cream cheese for a richer texture—just cube it and add it with the heavy cream.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! You can use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative instead of heavy cream. For cheese, try dairy-free mozzarella shreds available in most grocery stores. Adjust seasonings to taste as some substitutes may alter the flavor slightly.
What’s the Best Way to Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens.
