Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Penne Pasta

Introduction

Imagine coming home to a warm, comforting dish that’s been simmering away in your slow cooker all day, filling your kitchen with the most incredible aromas. The Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Penne Pasta is exactly that – a dish that combines the ease of slow cooking with the richness of creamy pasta, all in one deliciously satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want to come home to a meal that’s ready to devour, with minimal effort required. It’s a creative way to use everyday ingredients, turning them into a masterpiece of flavors and textures that will leave everyone asking for more.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe strikes a perfect balance between creamy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors, using ingredients that are easily found in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: The beauty of slow cooking is that it requires minimal prep time. Simply add all your ingredients to the slow cooker, and let it do the work for you.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite the simplicity of preparation, the end result is a dish that looks and tastes like it was made with much more effort, perfect for impressing family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup penne pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, basil, and oregano. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until it’s translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, and cooked chicken back into the skillet. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes until the sauce starts to thicken slightly.
4. Step 4: Add the penne pasta to the slow cooker. Pour the chicken and sauce mixture over the pasta. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1-2 hours.
5. Step 5: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the Parmesan cheese. Let it melt and combine with the sauce.
6. Step 6: Serve the Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Penne Pasta hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy!

Handy Tips

• For an extra creamy sauce, you can add more heavy cream or substitute some of it with Greek yogurt.
• Feel free to customize the recipe with your! favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, and add them to the slow cooker with the chicken and sauce.
• Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it can become mushy. If you prefer your pasta more al dente, cook it separately and then add it to the slow cooker for the last 30 minutes.

Heat Control

The beauty of using a slow cooker is that it maintains a consistent low heat, perfect for cooking the chicken and pasta evenly without burning or overcooking. The ideal temperature for slow cooking is between 180°F and 190°F. Always refer to your slow cooker’s manual for specific temperature controls and cooking times.

Crunch Factor

This dish is all about comfort and creaminess, but if you’re looking to add a bit of crunch, consider topping it with toasted breadcrumbs, chopped nuts, or even some crispy bacon bits before serving.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the slow cooker, make sure to stir it occasionally, especially during the last hour of cooking.
• For easier cleanup, line the slow cooker with a disposable liner before adding your ingredients.
• Let the dish rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken further.

Storage Tips

• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a bit more cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
• This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as instructed above.
• When reheating, always check the temperature to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F to prevent foodborne illness.

Gift Packaging Ideas

While this dish is best served fresh, if you’re looking to gift it, consider portioning it into individual containers, topping each with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of parsley, and wrapping them in a decorative paper bag or a microwave-safe container with heating instructions.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or some dried thyme for an earthy flavor.
• Creative toppings: In addition to parsley, consider using other herbs like basil or cilantro, or adding some diced tomatoes for extra flavor and moisture.
• Ingredient swaps: Substitute chicken with shrimp or sausage for a different protein, or use gluten-free pasta for a dietary restriction.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit more chicken broth. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter.
• Over/undercooking signs: The pasta should be al dente, and the chicken should be cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, this dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.
• Is it gluten-free? Not in its current form, due to the penne pasta. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by substituting the pasta with a gluten-free alternative.
• Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! Just ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the increased volume of ingredients.

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Penne Pasta is a recipe that embodies the perfect blend of ease, flavor, and comfort. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your household, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and spices to make it your own, and enjoy the process of creating a delicious meal with minimal fuss. Happy cooking, and we look forward to hearing about your culinary adventures!