Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your table. This creamy and hearty pasta meal combines tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes for a satisfying experience. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, it’s an easy-to-make recipe that everyone will love. With minimal prep time and the slow cooker doing all the work, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dinner without any fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this dish is perfect for those with a busy schedule.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and herbs creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Meal: Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or even romantic evenings at home.
• Comforting Texture: Creamy Alfredo sauce envelops the pasta and chicken, making it a comforting choice for any meal.
• Nutritious & Satisfying: Packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from spinach, this dish is both filling and healthy.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. For this recipe, you’ll need a few essential kitchen items to create your Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta effortlessly.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Mixing spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking; simply set it and forget it while your meal cooks to perfection.
• Cutting board & knife: Essential for safely preparing your ingredients with ease.
• Measuring cups: Ensure accurate ingredient amounts for consistent results every time.
• Mixing spoon: Helpful for combining ingredients thoroughly before cooking.

Ingredients

Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta is creamy, hearty, and delicious, with tender chicken, pasta, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes in Alfredo sauce.

For the Chicken

• 1.5-2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
• Salt and pepper

For the Sauce

• 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 jars (14.5 ounces each) creamy Alfredo sauce

For the Pasta

• 2 cups dry rigatoni pasta

For the Vegetables

• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil (drained)
• 3 cups fresh spinach (packed)

For Thickening

• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water

How to Make Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by rinsing your chicken breasts under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. Cut them into large pieces if desired for quicker cooking.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor as they cook.

Step 3: Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour in 1 cup of low sodium chicken broth along with minced garlic, oregano, thyme, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and one jar of Alfredo sauce over them.

Step 4: Cook on Low Heat

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low heat for about 5 hours.

Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients

After 5 hours of cooking, stir in the remaining jar of Alfredo sauce along with dry rigatoni pasta. Mix well to coat all ingredients.

Step 6: Incorporate Vegetables

Add in drained sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Stir until everything is combined properly. Cover again and continue to cook on low for an additional hour or until pasta is tender.

Step 7: Thicken if Needed

If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl until smooth. Gradually add this mixture into the slow cooker while stirring gently until combined.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Once cooked through, serve hot straight from the slow cooker! Enjoy your creamy Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta garnished with extra spinach or freshly grated cheese if desired.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or having a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Serve with Fresh Herbs

• Basil and Parsley: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for a burst of freshness.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Crunchy Garlic Bread: Serve slices of warm garlic bread on the side to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce.

Add a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds a nice crunch and tang to balance the creamy pasta.

Top with Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: Finish each plate with a generous sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Include Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal Roasted Veggies: Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus complement the richness of the pasta beautifully.

Garnish with Red Pepper Flakes

• Extra Spice: For those who enjoy some heat, offer red pepper flakes at the table for sprinkling.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Creating the perfect Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta takes just a few simple steps. Follow these tips for an even more delightful dish.

• Bold flavors: Use fresh herbs whenever possible to enhance the taste of your dish.
• Bold texture: Cook pasta separately if you prefer it al dente. Add it right before serving for the best texture.
• Bold presentation: Garnish with freshly grated cheese and herbs to make your dish visually appealing.
• Bold timing: Allow enough time for slow cooking; this enhances flavors and tenderness in your chicken.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Pairing your Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft and buttery, these knots are perfect for dipping into Alfredo sauce.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a refreshing addition.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing out the meal.
4. Pesto Zucchini Noodles: A light and healthy option that complements the rich flavors of the pasta.
5. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a satisfying crunch.
6. Antipasto Platter: A variety of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables create an inviting starter.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta, it’s essential to steer clear of common pitfalls that can affect flavor and texture.

• Bold Measurements: Not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to imbalanced flavors. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Bold Overcooking Chicken: Leaving chicken in the slow cooker too long can make it dry. Stick to the recommended cooking time for tender results.
• Bold Neglecting Seasoning: Skipping salt and pepper can result in bland pasta. Season generously but taste as you go.
• Bold Not Stirring Ingredients: Failing to mix ingredients well may result in uneven cooking. Stir everything together before covering the slow cooker.
• Bold Using Low-Quality Sauce: Cheap Alfredo sauce can ruin the dish’s creaminess. Invest in a good quality sauce for the best flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Best used within 2-3 months for maximum flavor and texture.

Reheating Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat until warmed through (about 20-25 minutes).
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a creamy dish featuring tender chicken, pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach cooked together for rich flavors.

Can I customize my Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

Absolutely! You can add veggies like bell peppers or substitute different types of pasta based on your preference.

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

The total cooking time is about 5 hours on low heat, ensuring that the chicken becomes perfectly tender.

Can I use another type of protein?

Yes! You can easily swap out chicken for turkey or lamb according to your taste preferences.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins for a unique twist!

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