Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings comforting flavors to your table with minimal effort. This recipe features tender chicken, hearty pasta, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes enveloped in a creamy Alfredo sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends with its rich taste and satisfying ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it while the slow cooker does the work.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of garlic, herbs, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Dish: Suitable for various occasions, from family dinners to potlucks, it adapts well to any setting.
• Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and vitamins from spinach, it’s a wholesome choice for your meals.
• Creamy Comfort: The creamy Alfredo sauce makes each bite feel indulgent while remaining simple to prepare.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather some essential kitchen tools that will make your cooking experience seamless.

Essential Kitchen Tools

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

Why These Tools Matter

• Slow cooker: This tool allows you to cook meals slowly at low temperatures, ensuring tenderness and flavor infusion without constant supervision.
• Cutting board & knife: A sturdy cutting board paired with a sharp knife makes chopping ingredients safe and efficient.
• Measuring cups & spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect flavor balance in your dishes.

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 Base

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

For the Flavoring

• 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

For the Pasta Dish

• 2 jars (14.5 ounces each) creamy Alfredo sauce
• 2 cups dry rigatoni pasta
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil (drained)
• 3 cups fresh spinach (packed)
• Salt and pepper to taste

To Thicken the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water

How to Make Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Season them with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Add Broth and Aromatics

In a separate bowl, mix 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth with minced garlic, oregano, thyme, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Incorporate Alfredo Sauce

Add both jars of creamy Alfredo sauce directly into the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Cook on Low

Cover the slow cooker and set it on low heat for about 5 hours (300 minutes). The chicken should be tender and easy to shred by this point.

Step 5: Prepare Pasta

About 30 minutes before serving, cook the dry rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 6: Finish with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach

Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks right in the slow cooker. Stir in drained sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach until wilted.

Step 7: Thicken Sauce

In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water until smooth. Gradually stir this into the slow cooker; allow it to thicken for about 10 minutes.

Step 8: Combine Pasta

Finally, add cooked rigatoni pasta into the slow cooker. Mix well until all ingredients are coated in sauce before serving warm. Enjoy!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Serving Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a delightful experience that can be tailored to your preferences. This creamy dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes dressed in olive oil adds freshness.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, croutons, and a light Caesar dressing complement the richness of the pasta.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Chopped fresh basil sprinkled on top adds a burst of flavor and color.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley provides a bright contrast and enhances the dish’s aroma.

Serve with Garlic Bread

• Toasted Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce while adding flavor.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: A cheesy version adds indulgence and pairs perfectly with the pasta.

Include Grated Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan sprinkled on top enhances the taste and makes for an elegant presentation.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Adding shredded mozzarella gives a melty texture that enriches each bite.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta

To achieve the best results with Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta, consider these helpful tips:

• Bold Seasoning: Adjust seasoning levels according to your taste; don’t be shy with herbs to enhance flavors.
• Bold Ingredient Choices: Opt for high-quality Alfredo sauce for a richer texture and flavor in your dish.
• Bold Cooking Time: Ensure you cook it long enough for the chicken to become tender; 5 hours on low is ideal.
• Bold Pasta Addition: Add rigatoni during the last hour of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Bold Spinach Usage: Stir in fresh spinach just before serving to keep it vibrant and nutritious.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Complementing your Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta with delicious side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic are perfect for soaking up the sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds depth and nutrition to your plate.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus provides a crisp texture that contrasts beautifully with the pasta.
4. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing appetizer.
5. Zucchini Noodles: Light, spiralized zucchini noodles offer a low-carb alternative that pairs well with rich sauces.
6. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil serves as a tasty starter or side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a delicious dish, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to avoid for perfect results.

• Not seasoning properly: Failing to season your chicken and sauce can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Overcooking pasta: Adding dry pasta too early can cause it to become mushy. Add the rigatoni during the last 30 minutes of cooking for the best texture.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality sun-dried tomatoes or Alfredo sauce can impact flavor. Invest in good ingredients for a richer taste.
• Skipping the cornstarch step: Neglecting to thicken the sauce with cornstarch can result in a watery dish. Mix cornstarch with water before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Not using enough liquid: If you don’t have enough broth, the pasta may not cook properly. Ensure you follow the liquid measurements closely.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Separate into individual portions for easy reheating.

Reheating Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely. Start with 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, hearty dish made with chicken, pasta, and sun-dried tomatoes simmered together in a flavorful Alfredo sauce.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While rigatoni is recommended, you can substitute it with penne or fusilli based on your preference.

How long does it take to cook?

Cooking time in the slow cooker is about 5 hours on low heat or approximately 3 hours on high heat.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and refrigerate it until you’re ready to start cooking.

Is this recipe customizable?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or switch out the chicken for beef or turkey as desired.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it based on your tastes or what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!