Ingredients
Method
- Step 1 — Build the Sauce Base: Add chicken breasts, heavy cream, butter, and chicken broth to your slow cooker. Season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. This infuses the chicken with rich flavor as it cooks.
- Step 2 — Slow Cook & Shred: Cover and cook on HIGH for 2 hours, or until chicken is cooked through and tender. Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks, then set aside. If the chicken doesn’t shred easily, cook for another 15–20 minutes.
- Step 3 — Cook the Pasta: Stir the rigatoni and Parmesan into the slow cooker. Cover and cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring once halfway through. Pasta should be al dente — tender but still slightly firm.
- Step 4 — Combine & Serve: Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir until everything is creamy and evenly coated. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Notes
Tips: For a lighter version, replace half the cream with milk and whisk in 1 tsp cornstarch. Swap chicken breasts for thighs for extra tenderness. Stir pasta once while cooking to prevent clumping. Add frozen peas, spinach, or steamed broccoli at the end for a veggie boost.
