Creamy Crockpot Chicken Pasta with Peas & Carrots

Creamy Crockpot Chicken Pasta with Peas & Carrots

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Creamy Crockpot Chicken Pasta with Peas & Carrots

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4–6 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes–6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6

Description

Creamy Crockpot Chicken Pasta with Peas & Carrots is a comforting, family-friendly dinner made with tender slow-cooked chicken, hearty pasta, sweet peas, and carrots tossed in a rich, creamy sauce. This easy one-pot-inspired meal combines simple ingredients with delicious flavors, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Let your slow cooker handle most of the work, then stir in the pasta and creamy ingredients near the end for a satisfying meal everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

  • 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 3 cups chicken broth

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

  • 1 cup milk

  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced

  • 1 cup frozen peas

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • ½ teaspoon paprika

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste

  • 8 oz uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or egg noodles)

  • ½ cup cream cheese, softened

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 tablespoon butter

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, optional

Instructions

1. Prepare the slow cooker.
Lightly grease the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray or a little butter.

2. Add the chicken and vegetables.
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the diced carrots, chopped onion, and minced garlic.

3. Make the creamy cooking liquid.
In a bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, Italian seasoning, paprika, black pepper, and salt until smooth.

4. Slow cook the chicken.
Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and vegetables. Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is tender.

5. Shred the chicken.
Remove the cooked chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir gently.

6. Add the pasta.
Stir in the uncooked pasta. Cover and cook on HIGH for approximately 20–35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender. Cooking time will vary depending on pasta shape and slow cooker.

7. Make it creamy.
Add the cream cheese, milk, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Stir until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

8. Add the peas.
Stir in the frozen peas during the final 5–10 minutes of cooking, just until heated through.

9. Finish and serve.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve warm and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

  • Pasta choice: Rotini, penne, shells, and egg noodles all work well.

  • Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts.

  • Creaminess: Cream cheese and Parmesan create a rich sauce. Add a little extra milk or warm broth if the sauce becomes too thick.

  • Vegetables: Frozen peas and carrots can be used together for convenience.

  • Pasta timing: Add pasta near the end rather than at the beginning to prevent it from becoming overly soft.

  • Food safety: Always check that chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) before shredding.

Helpful Tips

  1. Cut carrots into small, evenly sized pieces so they soften properly.

  2. Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce.

  3. Stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks to prevent sticking.

  4. Avoid adding too much liquid at the beginning because pasta will absorb some of the broth.

  5. For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder.

  6. If preparing ahead, cook the chicken mixture first and add freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy chicken pasta with:

  • Garlic bread or toasted dinner rolls

  • A fresh green salad

  • Steamed broccoli

  • Roasted green beans

  • Extra grated Parmesan cheese

  • A sprinkle of fresh parsley

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.

Freezer: For best texture, freeze the chicken and vegetable sauce without the pasta for up to 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.

Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce, as the pasta will absorb liquid during storage.

Approximate Nutritional Information

Per serving, based on 6 servings:

  • Calories: 480

  • Protein: 38g

  • Carbohydrates: 43g

  • Fat: 17g

  • Fiber: 3g

  • Sugar: 5g

  • Sodium: 750mg

Nutritional values are estimates and will vary depending on the pasta, soup, cheese, and other brands used.

Benefits of This Recipe

  • Protein-rich: Chicken provides protein that supports muscle maintenance and helps make the meal satisfying.

  • Vegetable goodness: Peas and carrots contribute fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

  • Easy preparation: The slow cooker reduces hands-on cooking time.

  • Comforting meal: Creamy sauce and tender pasta make this a satisfying family dinner.

  • Flexible ingredients: You can adjust the vegetables, seasonings, and pasta to suit your preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
For food safety, thaw chicken completely in the refrigerator before placing it in the slow cooker.

2. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Add shredded, fully cooked rotisserie chicken during the final 30–45 minutes, just long enough to heat through.

3. Can I cook the pasta separately?
Absolutely. Cook pasta according to the package directions, then stir it into the finished creamy chicken sauce. This method also helps prevent overcooked pasta.

4. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen peas?
Yes. Fresh peas can be used, but add them near the end so they remain tender and bright.

5. How can I make the sauce thicker?
Allow the finished pasta to rest for 5–10 minutes. You can also stir in a little extra Parmesan or cream cheese.

6. Can I make this recipe without cream of chicken soup?
Yes. Replace it with a homemade white sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and chicken broth.

7. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes. Mild cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination of Parmesan and cheddar can add delicious flavor.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Crockpot Chicken Pasta with Peas & Carrots is an easy, delicious comfort-food dinner that brings tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and creamy pasta together in one satisfying meal. With simple ingredients and minimal preparation, it’s a wonderful choice for busy evenings when you want something warm, hearty, and homemade. Serve it with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete family dinner!

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