Name: Slow-Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 145 min
Total time: 160 min
Ingredients: 2.5 cups Progresso™ chicken broth ((from 32-oz carton)); 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1 package boneless skinless chicken thighs ((20 oz, cut in 1 1/2-inch pieces)); 8 oz uncooked campanelle pasta ((2 3/4 cups)); 0.5 cup chopped drained oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes ((with herbs)); 1 package cream cheese ((8 oz, cut into cubes, softened)); 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese ((4 oz)); 1 package fresh baby spinach leaves ((5 oz))

Introduction to Slow-Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

If you’re a young professional juggling work, social life, and personal projects, you know that time is of the essence. This is where slow-cooker recipes come to the rescue! They’re not just convenient; they also allow you to get home-cooked meals on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. Imagine walking in after a long day to the delightful aroma of a homemade meal waiting for you—that's where our Slow-Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta shines.

Why Slow-Cooker Recipes Are Perfect for Young Professionals

Set It and Forget It: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can toss your ingredients into the slow cooker, set it to cook, and go about your day. No more fretting over what to make for dinner after a hectic workday!
Flavorful and Nutritious: Slow cooking melds flavors beautifully, resulting in a rich, comforting dish that feels indulgent but is made from wholesome ingredients.
Batch Cooking Benefits: This recipe serves eight, making it perfect for meal prep. You can enjoy leftovers throughout the week or share them with friends, keeping gourmet dining easy and affordable.

So, are you ready to fall in love with your new kitchen companion? Let’s dive into the details of this delicious pasta dish! For more tips on cooking with a slow cooker, you can check out this article.

Ingredients for Slow-Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Essential ingredients for a creamy and flavorful dish

Creating a comforting bowl of Slow-Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is simpler than you might think! Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this delightful dish:

2 ½ cups Progresso™ chicken broth: This serves as the flavorful base for the sauce.
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A must for infusing rich flavors reminiscent of Tuscany.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall taste of your dish.
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: For a hint of spice that balances the creaminess.
1 package (20 oz) boneless skinless chicken thighs: Tender cuts that soak up the delicious sauce.
8 oz uncooked campanelle pasta: This pasta shape holds sauce beautifully, making each bite satisfying.
½ cup chopped drained oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes: Adds a touch of sweetness and texture.
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened: Creates that creamy, dreamy texture we all crave.
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: A cheesy goodness that ties everything together.
1 package (5 oz) fresh baby spinach leaves: For that vibrant color and nutritious boost.

Gather these ingredients, and you're set for a delectable meal that feels like a hug in a bowl! If you’re curious about cooking techniques or other side dishes, check out Betty Crocker’s recipe tips.

Step-by-Step Preparation of Slow-Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Making Slow-Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is an easy way to whip up a delicious meal with minimal effort. Follow these straightforward steps, and you will be savoring a creamy, flavorful dish that will impress everyone at the dinner table!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start, it’s essential to have all your ingredients handy. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 ½ cups Progresso™ chicken broth
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
20 oz boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1 ½-inch pieces
8 oz uncooked campanelle pasta (2 ¾ cups)
½ cup chopped drained oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes with herbs
8 oz cream cheese, cut into cubes and softened
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
5 oz fresh baby spinach leaves

Having everything prepped not only keeps you organized, but it also gets you excited to cook! If you need a quick guide on ingredient measurements, check out this ingredient guide for more tips.

Prepare the Slow Cooker

After you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to prep your slow cooker. Spray your 5-quart slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking — trust me, it’ll save you the hassle during cleanup.

Next, pour in the chicken broth, followed by the Italian seasoning, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir gently to combine all the flavors. This simple mixture sets the stage for the deliciousness that’s about to unfold!

Add Chicken and Spices

Now it’s time to add some protein. Toss the boneless chicken thighs into the broth mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the slow cooker and set it to High heat. Let it cook for about 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F. The enticing aroma will surely make you look forward to what’s coming next!

Stir in Pasta and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Once the chicken is cooked, it’s time to introduce the pasta and sun-dried tomatoes into the mix. Add 8 oz of uncooked campanelle pasta and the chopped sun-dried tomatoes right into the slow cooker. Stir everything gently to ensure the pasta is submerged in the broth. Cover it again and let it cook on high for another 25 to 30 minutes—give it a gentle stir twice during this time to make sure everything cooks evenly.

Finish with Cream Cheese and Spinach

Finally, it’s the moment we’ve all been waiting for: the creamy finish! Stir in the cubes of cream cheese and the shredded Parmesan cheese until they melt and blend beautifully into the sauce. Then, toss in the fresh baby spinach leaves until they are wilted and vibrant. Don’t skip this step — the spinach adds a wonderful color and texture!

Let the dish stand, covered, for 5 to 10 minutes to thicken before you dig in. Your Slow-Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is truly complete and ready to serve! This meal is sure to be a hit, making it one of your go-to recipes for easy weeknight dinners. Enjoy!

Variations on Slow-Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Add Different Vegetables for Extra Nutrition

Want to elevate your Slow-Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta? Consider throwing in a variety of vegetables! Try adding bell peppers, zucchini, or even kale for a colorful, nutritious boost. Each veggie not only enhances the flavor but also packs in extra vitamins and minerals, making your dish even more wholesome. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftovers from your fridge. Just remember to chop them into smaller pieces for even cooking!

Substitute Chicken Thighs with Turkey Bacon for a Twist

For a delightful flavor twist, you can substitute the chicken thighs with turkey bacon. This not only gives your Slow-Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta a unique, smoky taste but also reduces the overall fat content. Just cook the turkey bacon in advance until crispy, then mix it in during the last stages of cooking. Your guests will love this unexpected but tasty variation!

For more inspiration on incorporating vegetables, check out Healthline’s guide to eating seasonal produce. And if you're curious about the benefits of turkey bacon over traditional options, this article from Verywell Fit has you covered.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Slow-Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Making the most of your slow cooker

To elevate your Slow-Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, start by ensuring your slow cooker is well-prepped. A quick spray of cooking oil helps prevent sticking and makes clean-up a breeze. While it’s easy to set it and forget it, remember to stir the ingredients a couple of times during the cooking process for even flavor distribution.

Here are some handy tips:

Choose your chicken wisely: Skinless chicken thighs provide moisture and flavor but feel free to use chicken breast if you prefer.
Adding veggies: Tossing in some fresh bell peppers or mushrooms boosts nutrition and adds vibrant color.
Perfecting pasta texture: Don’t hesitate to adjust the cooking time for your pasta; it should be al dente by the end.

For extra creaminess, consider adding a splash of heavy cream before serving. Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions for Slow-Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Perfect Pairings to Elevate Your Meal

To really enhance your Slow-Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, consider these delightful serving suggestions:

Garlic Bread: A fluffy piece of garlic bread on the side is a classic choice. It’s perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce!
Fresh Salad: A simple arugula or mixed greens salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness.
Roasted Vegetables: Toss some seasonal veggies in olive oil and roast them as a colorful and nutritious side. Think bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for a vibrant plate.
Herb Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley over the top can brighten up every bite and add an aromatic touch.

These pairings not only complement the dish but also create a full dining experience, perfect for a cozy gathering or a weeknight treat!

Time Breakdown for Slow-Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Preparation Time

Ready to get started? You’ll need about 15 minutes to gather your ingredients and prep everything. This quick start sets the stage for a delicious meal!

Cooking Time

Once everything is in your slow cooker, forget about it for 2 hours and 10 minutes! This includes cooking the chicken and letting the pasta soak in all those creamy, Tuscan flavors.

Total Time

All in, you’re looking at a total of 2 hours and 25 minutes before digging into your scrumptious Slow-Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta. It’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort!

Feel free to explore more about slow cooking with This Old House to see how versatile this method can be! And don’t forget to check out related recipes for sides that pair well with this creamy delight. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Facts for Slow-Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Calories and Other Nutritional Highlights

Indulging in this Slow-Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is both comforting and manageable when it comes to your nutritional goals. Each serving contains approximately 390 calories, making it a hearty yet balanced option for dinner.

Here are some more highlights:

Total Fat: 18g
Protein: 27g
Total Carbohydrates: 29g
Sugars: 3g

The dish combines delicious ingredients like chicken and spinach, providing not just flavor but also essential nutrients. If you're interested in optimizing your weekly meal prep while staying mindful of your diet, this recipe is a win. Want to explore more about nutritional guidelines? Check out resources like the USDA Dietary Guidelines.

Isn’t it great to know that you can enjoy a satisfying meal without compromising on health? This pasta is perfect for busy weekdays or even a cozy weekend dinner with friends!

FAQs about Slow-Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for campanelle pasta, feel free to experiment with your favorites. Penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta can work well. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so check your pasta for doneness.

How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is a breeze! Simply transfer any uneaten Slow-Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave or a saucepan on the stove until heated through.

Is this meal suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This dish is fantastic for meal prepping. You can make a big batch at the start of the week, portion it out, and enjoy it for lunches or dinners throughout the week. It not only saves time, but it also makes healthy eating more convenient.

For more tips on meal prep and delicious pasta dishes, check out EatingWell and Taste of Home.

Conclusion on Slow-Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Recap of Why This Dish is a Must-Try for Busy Professionals

The Slow-Cooker Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a game-changer for busy professionals seeking convenience without sacrificing flavor. With minimal prep time and a delightful blend of creamy textures and vibrant ingredients, it's the perfect solution for weeknight dinners. Embrace the ease and savor every delicious bite!