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Slow Cooker Dinner Recipes: Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta

Slow cooker meals have a unique charm; they fill your home with a cozy aroma while allowing you to enjoy more time with family or on personal activities. One of the standout dishes you can prepare in your slow cooker is the Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta. It combines tender chicken, zesty Italian seasonings, and creamy pasta for a satisfying meal that is easy to make.

Why make this recipe?

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. It requires minimal prep time and uses ingredients that you may already have at home. Plus, with the slow cooker doing most of the work, you’ll find yourself with more time to relax or tend to other tasks, all while enjoying a delicious meal that the whole family will love!

How to prepare Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta

Start Cooking the Chicken: Place the 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Season with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and the 0.7 ounces of dry Italian dressing mix.
Add Broth: Pour in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth to keep the chicken moist while cooking.
Cook Chicken: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken shreds easily with a fork.
Prepare the Pasta: About 30 minutes before the chicken is done, cook 16 ounces of penne pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt 10 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour to create a roux. Add 2 tablespoons of fresh grated garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes.
Combine Ingredients: Gradually whisk in 2 cups of half & half and 1 1/2 cups of heavy cream, followed by 1 1/2 cups of grated parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy, then season with the remaining salt and pepper.
Mix Everything Together: Once the chicken is cooked, shred it in the slow cooker then add the cooked pasta and creamy sauce. Stir until everything is well combined.
Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Ingredients:

🐔 2 pounds chicken breasts, boneless skinless
🧂 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
🧂 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
🌿 0.7 ounces dry Italian dressing mix
🍗 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
🍝 16 ounces penne pasta
🧈 10 tablespoons unsalted butter
🌾 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
🧄 2 tablespoons fresh garlic, grated
🌿 1 tablespoon dried parsley
🥛 2 cups half & half
🥛 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
🧀 1 1/2 cups grated parmesan cheese
🌿 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

How to serve Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta

Serve this hearty dish warm, directly from the slow cooker. You can sprinkle additional parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top to enhance its presentation. Pair it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to store Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta

Allow any leftovers to cool down before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the dish for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.

Tips for preparing Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta

Always taste and adjust seasonings: Before serving, taste the dish to see if it needs more salt or pepper.
Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version, you can replace half and half with whole milk.
Don’t overcook the pasta: Since the pasta will be mixed into the sauce later, make sure to cook it just until al dente.

Variations

Add vegetables: Incorporate veggies like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers into the mixture for added nutrition.
Swap the protein: Consider using turkey or even vegetarian options like chickpeas for a different twist.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?
- Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
- Absolutely! You can use dairy-free alternatives for the butter, cream, and cheese.
Can I make this dish in advance?
- Yes, you can prep the chicken and sauce a day ahead, store them separately in the fridge, and combine them in the slow cooker on the day you intend to serve.

Enjoy making and savoring this easy and delicious Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta in your slow cooker! 🍽️