Get ready for a tasty meal with my Slow Cooker Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta Delight! This dish is easy to make and packed with flavor. You’ll need just a few simple ingredients like chicken, cream, and pasta. Best of all, it cooks while you go about your day! Join me as I share my step-by-step guide, tips, and tricks to create a creamy pasta dish your family will love.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces penne pasta
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Additional Ingredients
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup frozen peas
– Fresh parsley for garnish
In this creamy pasta dish, the chicken and broth create a rich base. The chicken breasts stay tender as they cook. The heavy cream adds a smooth texture, while the Parmesan cheese gives a savory flavor. You can use any brand of chicken broth. Just make sure it is low sodium to control the salt level.
Garlic powder gives a nice kick to the dish. Italian seasoning adds warmth and depth. The salt and pepper help balance all the flavors. Feel free to adjust these seasonings to your taste.
The penne pasta is perfect for this recipe. It holds onto the creamy sauce well. You can choose any pasta shape you like, but penne works best. The frozen peas add a pop of color and sweetness.
Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley! It adds brightness to the dish and makes it look beautiful. Enjoy this comforting meal with family or friends.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Ingredients
First, layer the chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker. Place the four boneless, skinless chicken breasts side by side. Next, mix the seasoning blend. In a small bowl, combine one cup of chicken broth, one tablespoon of garlic powder, one teaspoon of Italian seasoning, one teaspoon of salt, and half a teaspoon of black pepper. This mixture adds great flavor to the chicken.
Cooking the Chicken
Now, pour the broth mixture over the chicken. Make sure each piece is well coated. Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 5 to 6 hours. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked when you check it.
Final Preparation Steps
After cooking, shred the chicken using two forks. It should pull apart easily. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Then, stir in one cup of heavy cream and one cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is fully combined. Cook on low for another 30 minutes to let the sauce thicken.
While the sauce thickens, cook eight ounces of penne pasta according to the package instructions. After draining the pasta, set it aside. In the last ten minutes of cooking, add the cooked pasta and one cup of frozen peas to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine everything. When ready, serve hot and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your creamy pasta delight!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Creamy Sauce
To avoid curdling the cream, always add it at the end. Cook your chicken fully first. When you add cream, keep the heat low. Stir gently to mix. This helps the cream stay smooth.
For cheese consistency, use fresh grated Parmesan. Pre-grated cheese often has additives that can change the sauce. When you add cheese, stir until it melts completely. This gives you a rich, creamy texture.
Cooking Times and Temperature
I recommend cooking on low for the best results. This setting keeps the chicken tender and juicy. If you are short on time, you can use high for about 3-4 hours. Always check that the chicken reaches 165°F for safety. It should shred easily with a fork.
Serving Suggestions
For side dishes, garlic bread pairs well with this pasta. A simple green salad adds freshness. You can also serve it with steamed veggies for a healthy twist.
For garnishing, sprinkle fresh parsley on top. This adds color and a fresh flavor. You can also add a bit of extra cheese if you like!
Variations
Substitutions for Healthier Options
If you want a lighter dish, swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or coconut milk. Both options add creaminess without extra fat. You can also use whole grain pasta instead of regular penne. Whole grain pasta gives more fiber and nutrients.
Flavor Enhancements
Using fresh herbs makes a big difference in taste. Fresh parsley or basil adds brightness. Dried herbs work too, but fresh is best. You can also add veggies like spinach or bell peppers. These not only boost nutrition but also add color to your dish.
Dairy Alternatives
For a vegan version, use plant-based cream and cheese. Cashew cream is a great choice for creaminess. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan cheese for that cheesy flavor. These swaps keep your dish creamy while making it plant-based.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store leftovers, let the dish cool down first. Then, scoop the creamy chicken pasta into an airtight container. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents spills. Store it in the fridge for up to four days. Make sure to label it with the date. This way, you know when to eat it.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze this dish for later use. First, let it cool completely. Transfer the pasta to a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top, as the sauce may expand when frozen. Seal the container tightly and label it. Frozen creamy Parmesan chicken pasta lasts up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, use the stove for the best texture. Place the pasta in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it creamy. Stir gently until heated through. You can also use the microwave. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. This prevents hot spots and keeps the dish tasty.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken in this recipe. This method is simple and easy. Just place the frozen chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours instead of 5-6 hours. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This way, you get tender chicken without any fuss. I often use frozen chicken when I forget to thaw it. It saves time and keeps the meal easy.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can easily make this dish gluten-free. Just swap regular penne pasta for gluten-free penne. Many brands offer great gluten-free pasta that cooks well. Check the package for cooking times, as they can differ from regular pasta. You can also use spiralized veggies like zucchini for a lighter option. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty while meeting your needs.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep this meal ahead of time. You can season and layer the chicken in the slow cooker the night before. Cover it and store it in the fridge. In the morning, just plug in the slow cooker and go about your day. This dish stores well too. You can keep leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat gently before serving to enjoy the rich flavors again.
This recipe uses simple chicken, pasta, and cream for a tasty dish. I shared tips on cooking, seasoning, and storage. You learned to make it creamy without curdling. Variations offer healthy swaps and side ideas.
With these steps, you can create a meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
