Everyone loves a good, hearty meal that not only warms your belly but also fills your heart with joy, and Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is just that dish. This comforting recipe combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and the delightful bite of chickpea pasta, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. You can set it in your slow cooker and allow it to work its magic while you focus on your day. With simple ingredients and straightforward directions, this dish will soon become a favorite in your household.
Why We Love This Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a winning recipe for many reasons. First and foremost, the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting for you. Just throw in your ingredients, and allow the slow cooking process to infuse all those splendid flavors into the chicken, resulting in a dish that is tender and utterly satisfying. The combination of cream cheese and half & half creates a luxuriously creamy sauce, a perfect complement to the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and seasonings. Moreover, using chickpea pasta reinforces the dish’s nutritious value, providing you with plant-based protein and fiber, ensuring that you and your family are eating well. This dish is both heartwarming and wholesome, making it an ideal choice when you want to impress someone special or enjoy an effortless family dinner.
Ingredients about Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 8 oz chickpea pasta
- 1.5 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 8 oz reduced fat cream cheese (1 block)
- 1/2 cup half & half
- 3 oz sun-dried tomatoes (diced)
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp garlic (minced, 5-6 cloves)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta Directions
Creating your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is simple and rewarding. Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in your slow cooker, making sure to arrange them in a single layer for even cooking. It’s essential to get the layers right so that the chicken cooks perfectly and absorbs all that lovely flavor.
Next, you’ll want to prepare the flavorful broth. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together low sodium chicken broth, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Blend these ingredients until they are well combined, ensuring that the spices are evenly distributed. This mixture will be crucial for flavoring the chicken and creating the sauce that follows.
Once your broth mixture is ready, add the diced sun-dried tomatoes. Stir well to integrate them into the seasoned broth. The sun-dried tomatoes bring a punch of flavor and a pop of color to the dish, giving it an appealing look and taste.
Now, take this seasoned broth and pour it evenly over the chicken in the crockpot. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it on high for 2 to 3 hours or low for 4 to 5 hours. Your chicken is done cooking when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and shreds easily with a fork. This slow-cooking method allows the chicken to absorb all the flavors from the broth, creating a juicy and flavorful base for your meal.
Once the chicken is done, carefully remove it from the crockpot and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Shredding it helps the chicken mingle well with the sauce and pasta later on.
Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot, along with all those savory juices it has collected. Now, take your cream cheese and cut it into chunks. Place the chunks into the crockpot along with the half & half. Stir gently to combine everything; the cream cheese will add creaminess and a subtle tang to the sauce as it melts.
Cover the crockpot again and continue to cook on low for an additional 20-30 minutes. This step allows the cheese to melt completely, resulting in a smooth and cohesive sauce.
While the sauce is becoming rich and creamy, cook your chickpea pasta following the package’s instructions. To achieve that ideal al dente texture, it’s often best to cook it for one minute less than directed. Once done, make sure to drain the pasta well.
After draining, add the chickpea pasta straight into the crockpot with the chicken and creamy sauce. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir everything together until well combined. The Parmesan adds another layer of flavor, elevating the dish further. Now’s the time to taste the pasta and sauce; adjust seasonings if you feel it’s necessary.
You can serve the dish hot from the pot, garnished with extra Parmesan, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick, and fresh basil if you want a fresh burst of flavor. Enjoy your culinary creation, and marvel at how easy it was to create such an elegant meal.
How to Serve Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Serving your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is just as important as making it. Presentation can elevate your dining experience and impress your family or guests. Consider using a large serving bowl for a family-style feast, or individual plates for a more upscale dining setting.
When you serve this dish, you can sprinkle some additional Parmesan cheese on top to create a visually appealing layer of flavor. A light dusting of red pepper flakes not only adds a pop of color but also gives an extra hint of spice for those who enjoy a little heat.
If you’re feeling fancy, trap freshness by tearing off a few basil leaves and placing them atop the dish. Their vibrant green color will contrast beautifully against the creamy pasta and provide a fresh aroma as you dig in. You can also consider pairing this dish with a simple side salad. A crisp green salad complements the richness of the pasta, while a warm, crusty bread with olive oil can act as an excellent accompaniment to soak up any leftover sauce. The balance of flavors and textures will make your meal well-rounded and enjoyable.
Expert Tips: Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Creating a delightful Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta can be effortless with a few expert tips. First, always ensure your slow cooker is set appropriately; if you have a newer model, it may cook faster than older versions. Always check the chicken at the lower end of the cooking times to prevent overcooking.
Using fresh ingredients when possible is also advisable. Fresh garlic, tomatoes, and herbs can significantly enhance the flavors. If you have the option, go for fresh basil instead of dried; it offers a vibrant taste that’ll elevate your dish.
Another tip is to customize the spice levels according to your preference. If you enjoy a spicy kick, don’t hesitate to add more red pepper flakes to the original sauce or sprinkle more on top when serving. Likewise, if you’re cooking for kids or anyone who prefers milder flavors, feel free to reduce or eliminate the spices during cooking.
Lastly, don’t skip the simmering step after adding the cream cheese and half & half. Allowing the cheese to melt into the mixture ensures a luscious consistency that is essential for a creamy texture. Stirring it gently can also help everything come together smoothly.
How to Store Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Storing your Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is straightforward and preserves the flavors well. Allow it to cool entirely before transferring it to an airtight container. This is essential because moving it while hot can create condensation, which can lead to sogginess when stored.
Keep your pasta and chicken in the refrigerator for up to three to four days. When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, simply reheat them in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth or half & half to restore the creaminess if it appears thickened from chilling.
If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing portions. Place the dish in freezer-safe containers and keep it in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it. It’s an excellent way to have a hearty meal ready with minimum effort on a busy day.
Variation of Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
While the original recipe for Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is delightful, there are several variations you can explore to keep things interesting. For a lighter take on this dish, you can substitute the half & half with unsweetened almond milk or another milk alternative. It keeps the dish lower in calories while still lending creaminess.
If you’re in the mood for more vegetables, consider adding a cup of spinach or kale to the crockpot toward the end of cooking. These greens wilt down beautifully and add a nutritious boost without overwhelming the flavors you love.
For a different type of protein, you could swap the chicken for turkey or even use tofu for a vegetarian twist. Ensure that if you opt for tofu, you choose a firm variety and press it to remove excess moisture before adding it to the pot.
Switching up the pasta can also add variety to the dish. You might experiment with other pasta shapes or grains like quinoa for a unique textures. Whatever variation you choose, feel free to make it your own while keeping the core elements that make this recipe so beloved.
FAQ
What is Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a comforting dish made with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and chickpea pasta, perfect for a busy meal.
Can I use regular pasta instead of chickpea pasta?
Yes, you can substitute chickpea pasta with regular pasta or any pasta of your choice. Just follow the cooking instructions accordingly.
How long can I store Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
You can keep it refrigerated for about three to four days or freeze it for up to three months for later use.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with firm tofu or a plant-based protein to create a tasty vegetarian version.
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 8 oz chickpea pasta cook according to package instructions
- 1.5 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 8 oz reduced fat cream cheese (1 block) cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup half & half
- 3 oz sun-dried tomatoes (diced)
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese for mixing in and garnishing
- 1 tbsp garlic (minced, 5-6 cloves) fresh preferred
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh basil (optional, for garnish) adds flavor and decoration
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in your slow cooker in a single layer.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together low sodium chicken broth, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add the diced sun-dried tomatoes to the broth mixture and stir well.
- Pour the seasoned broth over the chicken in the crockpot.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 4-5 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Shred the chicken with two forks, then return it to the crockpot along with its juices.
- Add the cream cheese and half & half to the crockpot, and stir gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for an additional 20-30 minutes until the cheese melts completely.
Pasta Preparation
- Cook chickpea pasta according to package instructions for al dente texture.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the crockpot with the chicken and creamy sauce.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until everything is well combined.
- Adjust the seasonings in the pasta and sauce if necessary.
- Serve the dish hot, garnished with extra Parmesan, red pepper flakes, and fresh basil.
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