Crockpot Creamy Chicken Pasta (dairy-free + gluten-free)

This Crockpot Creamy Chicken Pasta is a dinner DREAM! Slow cooker meals speak to my soul and this dish is shockingly dairy-free, gluten-free and a family favorite for dinner.

When it comes to easy, delicious, and comforting meals, few dishes hit the spot like Crockpot Creamy Chicken Pasta. This recipe offers a perfect combination of tender, juicy chicken, a rich and creamy sauce, and a hint of Italian herbs, all cooked slowly to perfection in the crockpot. Whether you’re a busy parent, a working professional, or someone looking for a simple yet mouthwatering dinner option, this dish will quickly become a staple in your weekly meal plan.

Using ingredients like boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenderloins, marinara sauce, and coconut milk for creaminess, this meal strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition. Plus, with the option to make it gluten-free by choosing the right pasta, this recipe can cater to various dietary preferences. Ready to learn how to make the ultimate Crockpot Creamy Chicken Pasta? Let’s dive in!

Why Crockpot Meals Are a Game-Changer:

Crockpot meals are a lifesaver for those with a busy schedule. You can simply toss all your ingredients into the slow cooker, set it, and let it work its magic while you go about your day. By the time dinner rolls around, you’re greeted with a hearty, home-cooked meal that required minimal effort.

This Crockpot Creamy Chicken Pasta is particularly satisfying because the slow cooking process allows the chicken to become tender and flavorful. The sauce, made from marinara, coconut milk, and seasonings, thickens perfectly to coat every piece of pasta. It’s a one-pot wonder that feels like a labor of love but requires only a few minutes of prep.

What ingredients are in this slow cooker creamy chicken pasta:

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenderloins – These cuts of chicken are perfect for slow cooking. They become incredibly tender and absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully. Tenderloins tend to cook a bit faster, so keep that in mind if you’re in a hurry.
• Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder – These seasonings add layers of flavor to the dish. Italian seasoning is a blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, which pair perfectly with chicken and marinara sauce. Garlic and onion powder round out the flavors and add depth to the dish.
• Marinara sauce – Choose a high-quality marinara sauce as the base for the creamy sauce. It adds rich tomato flavor and pairs wonderfully with the coconut milk to create a balanced, creamy texture. You can use store-bought marinara or make your own if you prefer.
• Bone broth or water – For extra flavor and nutrients, bone broth is an excellent option to thin out the sauce slightly. It adds depth to the dish while providing a source of protein. If you don’t have bone broth, water works just fine.
• Gluten-free pasta or pasta of choice – To keep this recipe gluten-free, choose a pasta like brown rice, chickpea, or lentil-based pasta. Alternatively, feel free to use any pasta you love. Gluten-free pasta tends to be a bit more delicate, so watch the cooking time carefully.
• Coconut milk – he secret to the creamy texture of this dish is coconut milk. It adds a richness to the sauce without the heaviness of traditional cream. Plus, it keeps the dish dairy-free if that’s a priority for you.
• Optional: grated parmesan cheese or dairy-free cheese – For extra creaminess and flavor, you can sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the finished dish. If you’re keeping it dairy-free, opt for a plant-based cheese alternative.

How to Make Crockpot Creamy Chicken Pasta:

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the simple steps to create this comforting dish.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Seasonings

Start by placing the boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenderloins at the bottom of your crockpot. Season the chicken generously with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. These seasonings will give the chicken incredible flavor as it slow-cooks.

Step 2: Add the Marinara and Bone Broth

Pour the marinara sauce over the seasoned chicken. This will serve as the base for the creamy sauce. Next, add the bone broth (or water if you’re using that instead) to help thin out the sauce and ensure the chicken remains moist during cooking. The liquid also helps the flavors meld together as the dish cooks.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Set your crockpot to low and cook for 4-6 hours. The chicken should be tender and easy to shred with a fork by the end of the cooking time. If you’re using chicken tenderloins, you may want to check the chicken at the 4-hour mark, as tenderloins cook faster than breasts.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the crockpot and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot, allowing it to soak up even more of the flavorful sauce.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken finishes absorbing the flavors, cook your pasta according to the package instructions. If you’re using gluten-free pasta, be sure to keep an eye on it, as gluten-free varieties tend to cook more quickly and can become mushy if overcooked.

Step 6: Add Coconut Milk for Creaminess

Now it’s time to make the sauce creamy! Stir in the coconut milk, allowing it to blend with the marinara and create a silky, luscious sauce. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can let it simmer on low for another 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld even further.

Step 7: Combine the Pasta and Chicken Sauce

Once your pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the crockpot and stir to coat it in the creamy chicken sauce. Be gentle when stirring, especially if you’re using a delicate gluten-free pasta. Let everything sit for a few minutes to allow the sauce to soak into the pasta.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese or a dairy-free cheese alternative over the top. This adds an extra layer of flavor and creaminess to the dish. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting, creamy goodness!

Why You’ll Love Crockpot Creamy Chicken Pasta:

1. Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor: The beauty of this dish is how little effort it requires. With just a few minutes of prep in the morning, you can come home to a comforting, homemade dinner that feels gourmet.

2. Healthy and Versatile: By using ingredients like bone broth, coconut milk, and gluten-free pasta, this dish is easily adaptable for different dietary needs. You can make it gluten-free, dairy-free, or low-carb by swapping in zucchini noodles or another veggie-based pasta.

3. Kid-Friendly and Family-Approved: This recipe is sure to be a hit with the entire family. The creamy sauce is mild enough for kids, while the combination of Italian seasonings and marinara sauce adds depth for adults.

4. Leftover-Friendly: Crockpot Creamy Chicken Pasta also makes for great leftovers. The flavors only get better as they sit, making it the perfect meal to prep ahead for busy weeknights.

Crockpot Creamy Chicken Pasta is an irresistible, cozy meal that’s perfect for busy days or when you simply want something easy and comforting. With tender chicken, a rich creamy sauce, and your choice of pasta, this dish brings the flavors of a classic Italian meal to your home without the fuss. Whether you’re making it for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your household.

Give it a try, and don’t forget to sprinkle some extra cheese on top for that perfect finishing touch!

A few other cozy comfort food dinner recipes:

Roasted Tomato Zucchini and Feta Pasta (gluten-free)

Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls (gluten-free)

The Easiest No-Boil Baked Pasta Recipe (gluten-free)

Easy Chicken Parmesan Meatballs