Creamy Slow-Cooked Caesar Chicken Pasta Delight Recipe

Juicy Slow-Cooked Caesar Chicken Pasta Recipe to Savor

Whipping up a dreamy slow-cooked caesar chicken pasta delight takes comfort food to another level of deliciousness.

Layers of rich, velvety sauce blend perfectly with tender chicken pieces.

Fragrant herbs and perfectly seasoned ingredients dance together in this irresistible dish.

Classic caesar flavors merge seamlessly with hearty pasta, creating a meal that feels both familiar and exciting.

Crisp parmesan cheese sprinkled on top adds a delightful crunch that complements the creamy texture.

Weeknight dinners just got an incredible upgrade with this simple yet spectacular recipe.

You’ll want to savor every single bite of this mouthwatering creation.

Pro Tips For Creamy Caesar Chicken Pasta

  • Prevent pasta sticking by stirring occasionally during the cooking process and ensuring enough liquid covers the pasta.
  • Select boneless, skinless chicken breasts for uniform cooking and easier shredding in the slow cooker.
  • Swap cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter version or use dairy-free alternatives to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • Test pasta doneness by tasting a few pieces to ensure they are perfectly al dente without becoming mushy.
  • Add extra flavor by incorporating roasted garlic, red pepper flakes, or fresh herbs like basil for a personalized touch.

Flavorful Variations For Caesar Chicken Pasta

  • Spicy Southwest Chicken Pasta: Replace Caesar dressing with salsa and add taco seasoning. Incorporate black beans, corn, and pepper jack cheese for a zesty southwestern flavor profile.
  • Mediterranean Herb Chicken Pasta: Swap Caesar dressing for Greek yogurt and olive oil. Add sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Sprinkle with oregano and basil for an authentic Mediterranean touch.
  • Pesto Chicken Pasta Remix: Substitute Caesar dressing with homemade or store-bought pesto sauce. Mix in roasted pine nuts, spinach, and extra mozzarella cheese. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a vibrant green presentation.
  • Smoky Barbecue Chicken Pasta: Use barbecue sauce instead of Caesar dressing.

What To Serve With Caesar Chicken Pasta Delight

  • Pair Zesty White Wine: Select a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that complements the creamy Caesar flavors, cutting through the richness with bright, citrusy notes.
  • Serve Crunchy Garlic Bread: Prepare a crusty, garlic-rubbed baguette to soak up the luxurious sauce and add textural contrast to the tender chicken pasta.
  • Match Fresh Mediterranean Salad: Create a light, herb-infused salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette to balance the dish's creamy intensity.
  • Enhance with Parmesan Crisp Topping: Bake thin Parmesan cheese rounds until golden and crispy, then crumble over the pasta for an extra layer of salty, crunchy excitement.

How To Store Creamy Caesar Chicken Pasta

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping the dish fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Freeze: Transfer cooled pasta to freezer-safe containers, seal tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months, ensuring minimal air exposure to prevent freezer burn.
  • Microwave Reheating: Place desired portion in a microwave-safe dish, add a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.
  • Stovetop Reviving: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a little chicken broth or extra Caesar dressing to prevent drying, stirring occasionally until heated through and creamy.

Caesar Chicken Pasta Delight FAQs Covered

  • Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just add an extra 1-2 hours to the cooking time and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

  • What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells are ideal as they absorb sauce well and are easy to mix in the slow cooker.

  • How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use low-fat cream cheese, reduced-sodium chicken broth, and whole wheat pasta to create a lighter version of the dish.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Caesar dressing is gluten-free, as some brands contain wheat ingredients.

Why Caesar Chicken Pasta Delight Is So Creamy And Cozy

  • Simplify Dinner Prep: Toss ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic, creating a delicious meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
  • Kid-Approved Comfort Food: Creamy pasta with tender chicken appeals to both children and adults, making it a perfect family-friendly dinner that everyone will love.
  • Versatile One-Pot Wonder: This recipe eliminates multiple cooking steps by preparing chicken, pasta, and sauce in a single slow cooker, reducing cleanup and saving precious kitchen time.
  • Customize with Ease: Experiment with optional toppings like extra cheese, fresh herbs, or crispy bacon to personalize the dish and keep mealtime exciting for the whole family.

Everything You Need For Caesar Chicken Pasta Delight

Main Protein:
  • Chicken Breasts: Tender meat that forms the protein base of this creamy pasta dish.
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Garlic Powder, Lemon Zest: Aromatic spices that add depth and brightness to the chicken.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Provides a rich, salty flavor and creamy texture to the final dish.
Liquid and Sauce Components:
  • Chicken Broth, Caesar Dressing: Create a flavorful cooking liquid that infuses the chicken with tangy and savory notes.
  • Cream Cheese: Adds richness and helps create a smooth, creamy sauce.
Pasta and Garnish:
  • Pasta: Serves as the base of the dish, absorbing the delicious sauce.
  • Parsley: Fresh herb that adds a pop of color and a light, fresh flavor to the finished dish.

How To Make Caesar Chicken Pasta In A Slow Cooker

Step 1: Prep the Slow Cooker Workspace

Grab your trusty 5- to 6-quart slow cooker and give it a light spray of nonstick cooking spray to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Nestle Chicken with Flavor

Lay the chicken breasts in a cozy single layer.

Sprinkle generously with garlic powder and zesty lemon zest for an extra flavor punch.

Step 3: Create the Flavor Bath

Pour in your chicken broth and Caesar dressing, completely covering the chicken.

Lock in the magic with the lid and let it cook:
  • Low setting: 5 hours
  • High setting: 2 1/2 hours

Cook until the chicken hits that perfect safety temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Transform the Chicken

Carefully remove the chicken and let it cool briefly.

Shred or chop into delectable bite-sized pieces that’ll make mouths water.

Step 5: Pasta Immersion

Dive the pasta right into the simmering sauce inside the slow cooker.

Cover and cook on High for 20-30 minutes until the pasta reaches that perfect tender moment.

Step 6: Creamy Cheese Transformation

Stir in these dreamy ingredients:
  • Cream cheese
  • Parmesan cheese

Melt them into silky smoothness.

Fold in the shredded chicken and sprinkle of parsley, mixing everything into a harmonious blend.

Step 7: Rest and Thicken

Turn off the slow cooker and let the pasta rest for 10 minutes.

This magical pause allows the sauce to become luxuriously thick and creamy.

Step 8: Final Flourish

Finish with a sprinkle of remaining Parmesan cheese.

Feel free to add any bonus toppings that make your heart sing before serving up this comfort food masterpiece.

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Creamy Slow-Cooked Caesar Chicken Pasta Delight Recipe

Creamy Slow-Cooked Caesar Chicken Pasta Delight Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 27 reviews

  • Total Time: 5 hours 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Creamy caesar chicken pasta offers a luxurious Italian-inspired comfort meal that melts together tender chicken and rich, velvety sauce. Comfort and flavor dance seamlessly in this one-pot wonder you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Seasonings and Flavoring:

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Liquid and Dairy Components:

  • 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup (240 ml) creamy Caesar dressing
  • 4 ounces (113 g) cream cheese, cubed
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Pasta:

  • 8 ounces (226 g) penne or rotini pasta

Optional Toppings:

  • Crushed red pepper
  • Capers
  • Lemon wedges

Instructions

  1. Prepare the slow cooker by lightly spraying the bottom with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Arrange chicken breasts in a single layer, then season with garlic powder and lemon zest for enhanced flavor.
  3. Gently pour chicken broth and Caesar dressing over the chicken, ensuring even coverage.
  4. Cover and slow cook on Low for 5 hours or High for 2 1/2 hours until chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  5. Transfer chicken to a cutting board and allow to cool slightly, then shred or chop into bite-sized pieces.
  6. Add pasta directly into the remaining liquid in the slow cooker, stirring to prevent clumping.
  7. Continue cooking on High for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta becomes tender and absorbs the sauce.
  8. Incorporate cream cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring until completely melted and creating a smooth, creamy consistency.
  9. Fold in shredded chicken and fresh parsley, mixing thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly.
  10. Turn off the slow cooker and let the dish rest for 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld.
  11. Finish by sprinkling remaining Parmesan cheese on top and adding optional garnishes before serving.

Notes

  • Customize chicken thickness by pounding to even 1/2-inch thickness for consistent cooking and tender results.
  • Swap regular pasta with gluten-free or whole wheat options to accommodate dietary preferences without compromising flavor.
  • Use reduced-fat cream cheese and low-sodium chicken broth for a lighter version that maintains the creamy, rich texture.
  • Add extra vegetables like spinach or roasted bell peppers during the last 15 minutes of cooking to boost nutritional value and add vibrant color.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 590
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 27g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
Mia Thompson

Mia Thompson

Pastry Chef & Content Creator

Expertise

  • Creating wholesome, seasonal desserts with a focus on nutrition.
  • Developing recipes on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Experimenting with plant-based and gluten-free recipes.​

Education

Portland Community College – Baking and Pastry Arts Program
Specialized in artisanal bread, seasonal desserts, and sustainable baking methods.

National University of Natural Medicine – Bachelor of Science in Nutrition (BScN)
Focused on “Food as Medicine” philosophy, with core threads in nutrition.


Mia’s love affair with baking began in her grandmother’s kitchen, where sneaking spoonfuls of batter first sparked her curiosity. She refined her skills through Portland Community College’s Baking and Pastry Arts Program and her expertise at the National University of Natural Medicine, earning a B.Sc. in Nutrition.
At The Scrumptious Pumpkin, Mia reimagines classics with effortless seasonal treats, healthier twists on old favorites, and playful confections that feel like pure joy. Beyond the oven, she nurtures her urban garden, forages local ingredients around Portland, and leads hands‑on nutrition workshops for her community.

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