Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta Flavorful and Easy Meal

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- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cup fresh spinach - 1 medium onion, diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - 1/2 cup heavy cream - 12 ounces penne pasta - Salt and black pepper to taste - Grated Parmesan cheese for serving - Fresh basil leaves for garnish This list packs a punch of flavor. The chicken breasts are the stars, providing protein. Cherry tomatoes add sweetness and color. Fresh spinach brings a pop of green and nutrients. The onion and garlic give depth and aroma. For additional flavors, low-sodium chicken broth is a great base. Italian seasoning adds a classic touch. If you like some heat, red pepper flakes work well. Heavy cream makes this dish rich and creamy. The penne pasta holds all the tasty sauce. Finally, don’t forget the garnishes! A sprinkle of salt and pepper personalizes each plate. Grated Parmesan cheese adds a nutty finish. Fresh basil leaves are like a green bow on a gift, giving more flavor and a lovely look. 1. Start by placing the chicken breasts into the slow cooker. 2. Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. 3. Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic on top. The onion and garlic add great flavor. 1. Layer the halved cherry tomatoes over the seasoned chicken. 2. Pour the low-sodium chicken broth into the slow cooker. Make sure the broth covers the chicken well. 3. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender when done. 1. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh spinach and heavy cream. Mix gently. 2. While these flavors blend, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta when done. 3. When the cooking time is up, use two forks to shred the chicken in the slow cooker. Mix it well with the sauce. 4. Add the drained penne pasta to the slow cooker. Stir to coat each piece with the creamy sauce. 5. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed. Serve the dish hot. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for added flavor. To get the best results from your slow cooker, I recommend using the low setting for 6-7 hours. This way, the chicken will become very tender. If you're short on time, the high setting works too, cooking in 3-4 hours. Make sure the chicken is fully covered by liquid. This keeps the chicken moist and helps it cook evenly. If it’s not covered, parts of the chicken may dry out. Always check the broth level before serving. Feel free to swap ingredients to keep it fresh. You can use diced bell peppers instead of tomatoes or add mushrooms for a different taste. If you want a stronger flavor, try adding more garlic or herbs like thyme or oregano. Adding a splash of lemon juice right before serving can brighten the dish. If you like heat, toss in more red pepper flakes for a spicy kick! Pair your Tuscan chicken pasta with a simple side salad. A mix of greens with a light vinaigrette works well. Garlic bread also makes a great side. When serving, consider portion control. Use a measuring cup for equal servings. This way, everyone gets the same amount, and it helps with leftovers! {{image_4}} You can switch up the chicken in this dish. Turkey works great as a lighter meat option. Just use 4 turkey breasts instead of chicken. You’ll get a similar taste with less fat. Tofu is a fun choice too. Cut firm tofu into cubes. Sauté it lightly before adding it to the slow cooker. You will still enjoy that creamy sauce and great flavors. Shrimp is another protein to consider. Use about a pound of shrimp. Add it in the last 30 minutes of cooking. This way, it stays tender and juicy. If you need a gluten-free meal, swap the penne pasta. Use gluten-free pasta made from rice or corn. It cooks similarly but check the package for timings. When using different pasta, cooking times may change. Test your pasta a few minutes before the package states. You want it to be al dente, not mushy. For a vegetarian take, skip the chicken altogether. Add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. This adds color and texture to your meal. You can also include protein alternatives like chickpeas or lentils. They blend well with the creamy sauce and add healthy fiber. This version is filling and full of flavor! After you enjoy your Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta, store the leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty. Make sure to refrigerate within two hours to prevent bacteria growth. Properly stored, your meal lasts for up to four days in the fridge. If you want to save your pasta for later, freezing is a great option. To freeze, let the pasta cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. Use a tight lid to prevent freezer burn. Your pasta can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until hot. Leftover pasta can be just as fun. Try adding some veggies or extra cheese for a new twist. You can also turn it into a pasta bake by mixing it with more cheese and baking until bubbly. Another idea is to use it as a filling for wraps or quesadillas. This way, you make a whole new meal out of your leftovers. To make this dish, you need about 15 minutes for prep. Cooking time varies based on the heat setting. On low, it takes 6-7 hours. If you set it on high, it cooks in 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked. Yes, you can prepare this meal ahead of time. You can season the chicken and chop the vegetables the night before. Store them in the fridge until you are ready to cook. Just add everything into the slow cooker when you want to start. This recipe is perfect for meal prep. If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also try coconut cream for a dairy-free choice. Another option is to blend silken tofu until smooth. This gives you a creamy texture without the heavy cream. In this post, we explored the tasty recipe for Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta. We covered key ingredients, including chicken, tomatoes, and cream, as well as step-by-step instructions. I shared tips for using your slow cooker and offered variations to suit different diets. Remember, you can switch ingredients or adjust flavors. This dish is not only easy but also makes for great leftovers. Enjoy making this meal that’s comforting and satisfying. You have all the tools to create something special!

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Craving a comforting meal that’s packed with flavor and super easy to make? Look no further! In this guide, I’ll show you how to whip up Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta. With tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Plus, you can let your slow cooker do all the work! Get ready to impress your family with minimal effort.

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– 1 cup fresh spinach

– 1 medium onion, diced

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

Additional Ingredients

– 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

– 1/2 cup heavy cream

– 12 ounces penne pasta

Garnishes

– Salt and black pepper to taste

– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

This list packs a punch of flavor. The chicken breasts are the stars, providing protein. Cherry tomatoes add sweetness and color. Fresh spinach brings a pop of green and nutrients. The onion and garlic give depth and aroma.

For additional flavors, low-sodium chicken broth is a great base. Italian seasoning adds a classic touch. If you like some heat, red pepper flakes work well. Heavy cream makes this dish rich and creamy. The penne pasta holds all the tasty sauce.

Finally, don’t forget the garnishes! A sprinkle of salt and pepper personalizes each plate. Grated Parmesan cheese adds a nutty finish. Fresh basil leaves are like a green bow on a gift, giving more flavor and a lovely look.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

1. Start by placing the chicken breasts into the slow cooker.

2. Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.

3. Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic on top. The onion and garlic add great flavor.

Cooking Process

1. Layer the halved cherry tomatoes over the seasoned chicken.

2. Pour the low-sodium chicken broth into the slow cooker. Make sure the broth covers the chicken well.

3. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender when done.

Finishing Touches

1. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh spinach and heavy cream. Mix gently.

2. While these flavors blend, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta when done.

3. When the cooking time is up, use two forks to shred the chicken in the slow cooker. Mix it well with the sauce.

4. Add the drained penne pasta to the slow cooker. Stir to coat each piece with the creamy sauce.

5. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed. Serve the dish hot. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for added flavor.

Tips & Tricks

Slow Cooker Usage

To get the best results from your slow cooker, I recommend using the low setting for 6-7 hours. This way, the chicken will become very tender. If you’re short on time, the high setting works too, cooking in 3-4 hours.

Make sure the chicken is fully covered by liquid. This keeps the chicken moist and helps it cook evenly. If it’s not covered, parts of the chicken may dry out. Always check the broth level before serving.

Enhancing Flavor

Feel free to swap ingredients to keep it fresh. You can use diced bell peppers instead of tomatoes or add mushrooms for a different taste. If you want a stronger flavor, try adding more garlic or herbs like thyme or oregano.

Adding a splash of lemon juice right before serving can brighten the dish. If you like heat, toss in more red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Tuscan chicken pasta with a simple side salad. A mix of greens with a light vinaigrette works well. Garlic bread also makes a great side.

When serving, consider portion control. Use a measuring cup for equal servings. This way, everyone gets the same amount, and it helps with leftovers!

Variations

Alternative Proteins

You can switch up the chicken in this dish. Turkey works great as a lighter meat option. Just use 4 turkey breasts instead of chicken. You’ll get a similar taste with less fat.

Tofu is a fun choice too. Cut firm tofu into cubes. Sauté it lightly before adding it to the slow cooker. You will still enjoy that creamy sauce and great flavors.

Shrimp is another protein to consider. Use about a pound of shrimp. Add it in the last 30 minutes of cooking. This way, it stays tender and juicy.

Gluten-Free Options

If you need a gluten-free meal, swap the penne pasta. Use gluten-free pasta made from rice or corn. It cooks similarly but check the package for timings.

When using different pasta, cooking times may change. Test your pasta a few minutes before the package states. You want it to be al dente, not mushy.

Vegetarian Version

For a vegetarian take, skip the chicken altogether. Add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. This adds color and texture to your meal.

You can also include protein alternatives like chickpeas or lentils. They blend well with the creamy sauce and add healthy fiber. This version is filling and full of flavor!

Storage Info

Refrigeration

After you enjoy your Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta, store the leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty. Make sure to refrigerate within two hours to prevent bacteria growth. Properly stored, your meal lasts for up to four days in the fridge.

Freezing

If you want to save your pasta for later, freezing is a great option. To freeze, let the pasta cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. Use a tight lid to prevent freezer burn. Your pasta can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until hot.

Serving Leftovers

Leftover pasta can be just as fun. Try adding some veggies or extra cheese for a new twist. You can also turn it into a pasta bake by mixing it with more cheese and baking until bubbly. Another idea is to use it as a filling for wraps or quesadillas. This way, you make a whole new meal out of your leftovers.

FAQs

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

To make this dish, you need about 15 minutes for prep. Cooking time varies based on the heat setting. On low, it takes 6-7 hours. If you set it on high, it cooks in 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this meal ahead of time. You can season the chicken and chop the vegetables the night before. Store them in the fridge until you are ready to cook. Just add everything into the slow cooker when you want to start. This recipe is perfect for meal prep.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also try coconut cream for a dairy-free choice. Another option is to blend silken tofu until smooth. This gives you a creamy texture without the heavy cream.

In this post, we explored the tasty recipe for Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta. We covered key ingredients, including chicken, tomatoes, and cream, as well as step-by-step instructions. I shared tips for using your slow cooker and offered variations to suit different diets. Remember, you can switch ingredients or adjust flavors. This dish is not only easy but also makes for great leftovers. Enjoy making this meal that’s comforting and satisfying. You have all the tools to create something special!

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cup fresh spinach - 1 medium onion, diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - 1/2 cup heavy cream - 12 ounces penne pasta - Salt and black pepper to taste - Grated Parmesan cheese for serving - Fresh basil leaves for garnish This list packs a punch of flavor. The chicken breasts are the stars, providing protein. Cherry tomatoes add sweetness and color. Fresh spinach brings a pop of green and nutrients. The onion and garlic give depth and aroma. For additional flavors, low-sodium chicken broth is a great base. Italian seasoning adds a classic touch. If you like some heat, red pepper flakes work well. Heavy cream makes this dish rich and creamy. The penne pasta holds all the tasty sauce. Finally, don’t forget the garnishes! A sprinkle of salt and pepper personalizes each plate. Grated Parmesan cheese adds a nutty finish. Fresh basil leaves are like a green bow on a gift, giving more flavor and a lovely look. 1. Start by placing the chicken breasts into the slow cooker. 2. Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. 3. Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic on top. The onion and garlic add great flavor. 1. Layer the halved cherry tomatoes over the seasoned chicken. 2. Pour the low-sodium chicken broth into the slow cooker. Make sure the broth covers the chicken well. 3. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender when done. 1. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh spinach and heavy cream. Mix gently. 2. While these flavors blend, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta when done. 3. When the cooking time is up, use two forks to shred the chicken in the slow cooker. Mix it well with the sauce. 4. Add the drained penne pasta to the slow cooker. Stir to coat each piece with the creamy sauce. 5. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed. Serve the dish hot. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for added flavor. To get the best results from your slow cooker, I recommend using the low setting for 6-7 hours. This way, the chicken will become very tender. If you're short on time, the high setting works too, cooking in 3-4 hours. Make sure the chicken is fully covered by liquid. This keeps the chicken moist and helps it cook evenly. If it’s not covered, parts of the chicken may dry out. Always check the broth level before serving. Feel free to swap ingredients to keep it fresh. You can use diced bell peppers instead of tomatoes or add mushrooms for a different taste. If you want a stronger flavor, try adding more garlic or herbs like thyme or oregano. Adding a splash of lemon juice right before serving can brighten the dish. If you like heat, toss in more red pepper flakes for a spicy kick! Pair your Tuscan chicken pasta with a simple side salad. A mix of greens with a light vinaigrette works well. Garlic bread also makes a great side. When serving, consider portion control. Use a measuring cup for equal servings. This way, everyone gets the same amount, and it helps with leftovers! {{image_4}} You can switch up the chicken in this dish. Turkey works great as a lighter meat option. Just use 4 turkey breasts instead of chicken. You’ll get a similar taste with less fat. Tofu is a fun choice too. Cut firm tofu into cubes. Sauté it lightly before adding it to the slow cooker. You will still enjoy that creamy sauce and great flavors. Shrimp is another protein to consider. Use about a pound of shrimp. Add it in the last 30 minutes of cooking. This way, it stays tender and juicy. If you need a gluten-free meal, swap the penne pasta. Use gluten-free pasta made from rice or corn. It cooks similarly but check the package for timings. When using different pasta, cooking times may change. Test your pasta a few minutes before the package states. You want it to be al dente, not mushy. For a vegetarian take, skip the chicken altogether. Add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. This adds color and texture to your meal. You can also include protein alternatives like chickpeas or lentils. They blend well with the creamy sauce and add healthy fiber. This version is filling and full of flavor! After you enjoy your Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta, store the leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty. Make sure to refrigerate within two hours to prevent bacteria growth. Properly stored, your meal lasts for up to four days in the fridge. If you want to save your pasta for later, freezing is a great option. To freeze, let the pasta cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. Use a tight lid to prevent freezer burn. Your pasta can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until hot. Leftover pasta can be just as fun. Try adding some veggies or extra cheese for a new twist. You can also turn it into a pasta bake by mixing it with more cheese and baking until bubbly. Another idea is to use it as a filling for wraps or quesadillas. This way, you make a whole new meal out of your leftovers. To make this dish, you need about 15 minutes for prep. Cooking time varies based on the heat setting. On low, it takes 6-7 hours. If you set it on high, it cooks in 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked. Yes, you can prepare this meal ahead of time. You can season the chicken and chop the vegetables the night before. Store them in the fridge until you are ready to cook. Just add everything into the slow cooker when you want to start. This recipe is perfect for meal prep. If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also try coconut cream for a dairy-free choice. Another option is to blend silken tofu until smooth. This gives you a creamy texture without the heavy cream. In this post, we explored the tasty recipe for Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta. We covered key ingredients, including chicken, tomatoes, and cream, as well as step-by-step instructions. I shared tips for using your slow cooker and offered variations to suit different diets. Remember, you can switch ingredients or adjust flavors. This dish is not only easy but also makes for great leftovers. Enjoy making this meal that’s comforting and satisfying. You have all the tools to create something special!

Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Indulge in a culinary delight with this Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Pasta recipe! Immerse tender chicken, fresh spinach, and cherry tomatoes in a creamy sauce that pairs beautifully with penne pasta. Perfect for busy days, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Click through to explore this comforting recipe and impress your family with a delicious homemade meal tonight!
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Ingredients
  

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup fresh spinach

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1/2 cup heavy cream

12 ounces penne pasta

Salt and black pepper to taste

Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Begin by placing the chicken breasts evenly at the bottom of your slow cooker. Generously season them with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat.

    Scatter the diced onion and minced garlic over the seasoned chicken, allowing their flavors to infuse into the meat.

      Pour the halved cherry tomatoes and low-sodium chicken broth over the chicken, ensuring that the liquid covers the chicken entirely for optimal cooking.

        Secure the lid and set your slow cooker to low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is perfect when it is tender and fully cooked through.

          About 30 minutes before serving time, incorporate the fresh spinach and heavy cream into the slow cooker, stirring gently to combine.

            While these flavors meld together, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

              Once the cooking time is complete, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks, thoroughly mixing it into the flavorful sauce.

                Add the drained penne pasta to the slow cooker, stirring to ensure that every piece of pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.

                  Serve your Tuscan Chicken Pasta hot, delightfully garnished with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and color.

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 7 hours | Servings: 6

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