Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipe: A Comforting Delight
Are you looking for a hearty and satisfying meal that requires minimal effort? Look no further than our Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Pasta! This indulgent dish combines tender rotisserie chicken, creamy cheeses, and flavorful seasonings to create a meal the whole family will love. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe, complete with helpful tips, variations, and even keto and low-carb options. Get ready to savor every creamy bite of this comforting delight!
Ingredients:
- 3 cups rotisserie chicken, cooked and shredded
- 1 large can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom with roasted garlic soup
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese
- 1 block (16 oz) Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 can mild Rotel tomatoes and green chilies (10 oz), undrained
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 stick butter (4 tablespoons)
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 8 ounces pasta
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Start by shredding the rotisserie chicken and chopping the green onions.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
- In the slow cooker, add the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom with roasted garlic soup, cubed cream cheese, Velveeta cheese, Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, chicken broth, and butter.
- Stir the ingredients until well combined.
3. Cook on Low Heat:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours, or until the cheeses are melted and the mixture is creamy and bubbly.
4. Cook the Pasta:
- While the chicken mixture is cooking, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
5. Combine Pasta and Chicken Mixture:
- Once the chicken mixture is ready, add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker and stir until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.
6. Serve and Garnish:
- Spoon the creamy chicken pasta into serving bowls and garnish with chopped green onions.Cook Notes and Variations:
Additional Vegetables:
- Add your favorite vegetables to the slow cooker for extra flavor and nutrients. Bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach are great options.
Seasoning:
- Enhance the flavor of the dish by adding your favorite seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning.
Protein Options:
- Substitute the rotisserie chicken with cooked diced chicken breasts or thighs for a leaner protein option
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use homemade cream of chicken and mushroom soups? A: Yes, you can use homemade soups for a fresher flavor. Simply replace the canned soups with an equal amount of homemade soup.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto:
- For a keto-friendly version, omit the pasta and use cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead. Substitute the canned soups with keto-friendly alternatives and use full-fat cream cheese and Velveeta cheese.
Low-Carb:
- Use low-carb pasta alternatives such as shirataki noodles or spiralized vegetables. Opt for low-carb cream of chicken and mushroom soups, and use butter instead of margarine.
Cooking Tips:
- Prep Ahead: Save time by preparing the ingredients the night before. Shred the chicken, chop the vegetables, and measure out the other ingredients so you can simply add them to the slow cooker in the morning.
- Adjust the Thickness: If the sauce is too thick for your liking, simply add more chicken broth to thin it out. Conversely, if you prefer a thicker sauce, let the mixture cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to evaporate excess liquid.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the level of spiciness by using mild, medium, or hot Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, depending on your preference for heat.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese to change the flavor profile of the dish. Sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack cheese can all add a unique twist.
- Garnish Creatively: In addition to chopped green onions, consider topping the creamy chicken pasta with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness and color.
- Make it Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version of this dish. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
Flavor Variations:
- Italian-Inspired: Add Italian seasoning, minced garlic, and diced sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
- Tex-Mex Twist: Incorporate taco seasoning, black beans, and corn kernels for a south-of-the-border flavor.
- Creamy Spinach: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach leaves during the last few minutes of cooking for added color and nutrition.
- Bacon Lovers’ Dream: Crumble crispy bacon over the top of the finished dish for an extra burst of smoky flavor.
- Buffalo Chicken: Mix in buffalo sauce and blue cheese crumbles for a spicy and tangy kick.
In conclusion, our Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Pasta is a versatile and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a casual gathering with friends, this dish is sure to please. So gather your ingredients, fire up the slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that’s as convenient as it is satisfying!