Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Pasta: A Comforting Delight
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the heartwarming appeal of chicken pot pie. However, for those who love the flavors but crave something a bit different, Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Pasta is a delightful twist that combines the best of both worlds. This dish offers all the savory goodness of traditional chicken pot pie in a creamy, pasta-based form that is sure to become a family favorite.
Why Choose Slow Cooker Meals?
Slow cookers are a busy cook’s best friend, allowing you to prepare meals effortlessly with minimal hands-on time. They bring out the deep flavors of ingredients through long, slow cooking, making it perfect for dishes like chicken pot pie. In addition, using a slow cooker means you can easily prepare this meal in the morning and come home to a delicious dinner without any fuss.
Ingredients
To whip up this hearty dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 8 ounces pasta (your choice; egg noodles work great)
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (or homemade equivalent)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. If you haven’t cooked the chicken yet, you can quickly poach or roast it. Alternatively, store-bought rotisserie chicken also works wonderfully in this recipe.
Step 2: Combine in the Slow Cooker
- In your slow cooker, combine the cooked chicken, pasta, frozen mixed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth.
- Add in the onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Set the Cooker
Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for about 6-7 hours, or on high for about 3-4 hours. Make sure to stir occasionally if you can, to ensure that all ingredients are mixing well and the pasta cooks evenly.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the shredded cheese until it’s melted into the mix. This will create a creamy, cheesy sauce that binds the dish together beautifully.
Step 5: Serve
Once cooked, give everything a final stir, and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy the rich flavors and hearty textures of your Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Pasta!
Tips for Perfecting Your Dish
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand.
- Pasta Variations: While egg noodles are a classic choice, you can experiment with penne, rotini, or even whole grain pasta.
- Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy. If you prefer more al dente pasta, check it a little earlier.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Pasta is not just a meal—it’s a cozy experience that brings warmth and comfort to the table. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a chilly Sunday afternoon, this dish is sure to satisfy. So gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy this tasty and effortless spin on a classic favorite!
