Crock Pot Italian Chicken Pasta

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm, creamy bowl of pasta, especially when it’s infused with rich Italian flavors. This Crock Pot Italian Chicken Pasta is the perfect meal for busy days when you want something hearty and delicious but without spending hours in the kitchen.

This dish is a lifesaver for families, meal preppers, and anyone who loves a set-it-and-forget-it recipe. With just a handful of ingredients, you get a flavorful, creamy, and satisfying pasta that tastes like it came straight from an Italian kitchen. Plus, slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making the chicken incredibly tender and the sauce irresistibly creamy.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner, a meal to impress guests, or something easy for meal prep, this Crock Pot Italian Chicken Pasta checks all the boxes. Let’s dive into why you’ll love it and how to make it effortlessly!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy & Convenient: Just toss the ingredients into the slow cooker, and let it do the work!
• Flavor-Packed: A combination of Italian seasonings, tender chicken, and a creamy sauce makes every bite irresistible.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults will love the creamy, cheesy goodness.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy pasta with juicy chicken—what’s not to love?

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)

How to Make Crock Pot Italian Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crock pot. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken. This step ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 2: Add the Creamy Ingredients

Pour the can of cream of chicken soup and chicken broth over the chicken. The broth helps keep the chicken moist while slow cooking, and the soup adds a creamy base for the sauce. Add the cubed cream cheese on top—don’t worry about mixing it in just yet; it will melt beautifully as it cooks.

Step 3: Let the Slow Cooker Work Its Magic

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Slow cooking allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and soak up all the delicious flavors.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is fully cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the crock pot. The chicken should be so tender that it practically falls apart. Stir everything together to mix the shredded chicken with the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Now, it’s time for the magic touch—cheese! Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. The warmth of the crock pot will melt the cheese into the sauce, creating an irresistibly creamy texture.

Step 6: Combine with Pasta

Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain it well, then add it to the crock pot. Gently stir to coat the pasta in the creamy, cheesy sauce.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Spoon the pasta into bowls, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve warm. Pair it with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal!

Helpful Tips for the Best Italian Chicken Pasta

• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly, so for the best creamy texture, use freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta is mixed into the hot sauce, it will continue to absorb liquid. Cooking it just until al dente prevents it from becoming mushy.
• Add Veggies for Extra Flavor: Stir in some spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for a pop of color and added nutrients.
• Make It Spicy: If you love a little heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish stores well, so make extra for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours (on low) or 3-4 hours (on high)
• Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 4-6 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Diet: Family-friendly

Notes

• Adjust the Consistency: If the sauce is too thick after adding the pasta, stir in a bit of extra chicken broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free if needed.
• Make It Ahead: You can prep everything the night before, store it in the fridge, and start the slow cooker in the morning for an effortless meal.
• Extra Creaminess: For an even richer texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or an extra sprinkle of mozzarella before serving.
• More Protein: Want to add more protein? Toss in some cooked turkey ham or beef sausage slices at the end for extra heartiness.
• Best Served Fresh: While this dish reheats well, it’s at its absolute best when enjoyed right after cooking. If reheating, add a splash of liquid to bring back the creamy texture.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to keep it creamy.
• Freezing: This pasta dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating Tips: When reheating, add a little chicken broth or milk to help loosen up the sauce and restore its creamy consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are just as delicious and even more tender. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.

What’s the Best Pasta for This Dish?

Penne, rotini, or bowtie pasta work best because they hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully. However, any pasta will work in a pinch!

Can I Make This on the Stovetop Instead of a Crock Pot?

Yes! Simply cook the chicken in a large pot, shred it, and then add the remaining ingredients. Let everything simmer until the sauce is creamy and smooth.

How Can I Make This Dish Lighter?

Use reduced-fat cream cheese and low-fat mozzarella for a lighter version. You can also swap out some of the cream for Greek yogurt to cut down on calories while maintaining creaminess.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Crock Pot Italian Chicken Pasta, you might also enjoy:

• Easy Chicken Piccata – A Zesty Italian Classic in Minutes!
• Marry Me Chicken Meatballs: A Comforting and Romantic Dish for Every Occasion
• Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup – A Hug in a Bowl
• Bruschetta Chicken Pasta: A Burst of Freshness in Every Bite

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a meal that’s both easy to make and packed with comforting flavors. This Crock Pot Italian Chicken Pasta is the perfect recipe for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or whenever you need a warm and creamy pasta dish that the whole family will love.

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