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Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo Rigatoni combines the soothing flavors of creamy Alfredo sauce and tender chicken with the heartiness of rigatoni pasta. This recipe is perfect for days when you want to enjoy a warm, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This dish is reminiscent of Sunday dinners I used to enjoy with my family, where the aroma of a hearty meal filled the house, uniting everyone around the table. It's a delightful blend of tradition and comfort, making it a favorite choice for busy families and those who appreciate the taste of home.
This slow cooker Alfredo Rigatoni dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, adding a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta. Garlic bread or warm, crusty rolls are perfect for soaking up the rich Alfredo sauce. For a touch of color and sweetness, consider serving it with roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables, such as carrots or green beans. A glass of dry white wine or chilled iced tea will beautifully complement the meal, making it a complete and satisfying culinary experience.
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Chicken Alfredo Rigatoni in the Slow Cooker
Serves: 6
Ingredients:
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts,
1 teaspoon garlic powder,
1 teaspoon onion powder,
Salt and pepper to taste,
2 cups chicken broth,
1 cup heavy cream,
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese,
1 pound rigatoni pasta,
1 tablespoon olive oil,
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley .
Instructions:
Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and cover the slow cooker. Simmer for 4-5 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Meanwhile, cook the rigatoni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and add the pasta to the slow cooker.
Drizzle the pasta and sauce with olive oil, stirring gently to combine.
Cover and simmer for another 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Before serving, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Variations and Tips
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For a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also substitute shrimp for the chicken for a seafood flavor. If you prefer a lighter version, use half and half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese. For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms and spinach to the sauce. Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta, such as penne or fettuccine, to suit your preferences.
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