Zesty Italian Chicken Pasta in the Crockpot

If you're looking for an easy and delicious dinner, you’ve come to the right place! My family loves Zesty Italian Chicken Pasta in the Crockpot, especially my son Jake, who can’t get enough of it. This easy crockpot dinner is perfect for busy weeknights, and it’s a hit with everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love It

• It’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze.
• You can set it and forget it, perfect for busy days.
• Packed with flavor, it’s a family favorite.
• Versatile and can be customized with your favorite veggies.

Pure Comfort

There’s something about a warm bowl of pasta that just feels like a hug. This Zesty Italian Chicken Pasta brings back memories of family dinners at Grandma’s house, where we’d gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter. It’s a dish that wraps you in comfort, making it a go-to for any occasion.

What You Need

• 1 1 lb chicken breasts – You can use thighs for more flavor.
• 1 1 large yellow onion – Diced; shallots work too.
• 2 2 cloves garlic – Minced; fresh or jarred is fine.
• 14.5 oz 1 can diced tomatoes – With Italian herbs for extra flavor.
• 1 1 cup chicken broth – Low-sodium is best.
• 1 1 tbsp Italian seasoning – Or use a mix of oregano and basil.
• 1 1 tsp red pepper flakes – Adjust to your spice preference.
• 8 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini) – Whole wheat or gluten-free works too.
• 1 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – For serving; can substitute with nutritional yeast.
• 1/4 cup Fresh parsley – Chopped, for garnish.

Time to Cook

Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 6 hours on low | Total: 6 hours 10 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, you can prep the ingredients a day in advance.

Steps to Make It

1. Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. They should be the first layer, soaking up all the flavors.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic on top of the chicken. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making everyone curious about dinner.
3. Pour in the can of diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir gently to combine everything, making sure the chicken is covered.
4. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes over the mixture. This will add a zesty kick that will make your taste buds dance!
5. Cover the crockpot and set it to low for 6 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
6. About 30 minutes before serving, add the pasta directly into the crockpot. Stir it in and let it cook until al dente, soaking up all that delicious sauce.
7. Once everything is cooked, shred the chicken right in the pot. Mix it all together, and watch the flavors meld beautifully.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. The colorful presentation will have everyone at the table eager to dig in!

Make It Perfect

• For extra flavor, sear the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot.
• If you like veggies, throw in some bell peppers or spinach in the last hour of cooking.
• Always taste before serving; adjust seasoning if needed.
• Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches 165°F for safety.
• Make it a meal by serving with a side salad or garlic bread.

Mix It Up

• Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.
• Mix in some olives or artichokes for a Mediterranean flair.
• Substitute the chicken with turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

Perfect Partners

• Garlic bread
• Caesar salad
• Roasted vegetables

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FAQs

Conclusion

This Zesty Italian Chicken Pasta in the Crockpot is not just another dinner recipe; it’s a family favorite that brings everyone together. With its ease and flavor, it’s one of those chicken crockpot recipes easy enough for any night of the week. So, grab your crockpot and enjoy a delicious meal that’ll have your family asking for seconds!

Zesty Italian Chicken Pasta in the Crockpot

A simple and flavorful crockpot dinner featuring chicken breasts, pasta, and Italian seasonings. This one-pot meal is easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights, and serves as a comforting family favorite with a zesty kick and customizable add-ins.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 minutes mins

Total Time 6 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Equipment

• Crockpot
• Skillet

Ingredients

  

Main

• 1 lb chicken breasts You can use thighs for more flavor
• 1 large yellow onion Diced; shallots work too
• 2 cloves garlic Minced; fresh or jarred is fine
• 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes With Italian herbs for extra flavor
• 1 cup chicken broth Low-sodium is best
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning Or use a mix of oregano and basil
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes Adjust to your spice preference
• 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini) Whole wheat or gluten-free works too
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese For serving; can substitute with nutritional yeast
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley Chopped, for garnish

Instructions

 

• Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot as the first layer.
• Add the diced onion and minced garlic on top of the chicken.
• Pour in the can of diced tomatoes and chicken broth; stir gently to combine and cover the chicken.
• Sprinkle Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes over the mixture for a zesty kick.
• Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours until the chicken is tender and shreds easily.
• About 30 minutes before serving, add the pasta directly into the crockpot and stir to cook until al dente.
• Shred the chicken right in the crockpot and mix everything together thoroughly.
• Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley garnish.

Keyword Chicken, Comfort Food, crockpot, easy, Italian, Pasta