Ingredients
Creating this delightful dish requires a handful of wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– ½ teaspoon of black pepper
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon of dried basil
– 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 12 ounces of your favorite pasta (I recommend penne or fusilli)
– ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
As I gather these ingredients, I’m reminded of my trips to the vibrant marketplaces of Italy, where the vendors’ stalls overflowed with the freshest produce and fragrant herbs. It’s those memories that inspire me to bring a touch of European flair to my family’s favorite meals.
Instructions
Creating this dish is a simple yet rewarding process. Here’s how to bring it to life:
1. **Prepare the Vegetables**: Begin by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. These aromatic ingredients form the base of our dish, much like the garlic-laden dishes of my childhood that always signaled something delicious was on the way.
2. **Layer the Ingredients**: In your slow cooker, layer the chicken breasts, onion, and garlic. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Pour the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth over the top, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged.
3. **Cook Slowly**: Set your slow cooker to low and let it work its magic for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking method reminds me of the leisurely pace of life in the Mediterranean, where meals are savored and time is cherished.
4. **Add the Pasta**: About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the pasta and cream. The pasta will absorb the flavorful broth, becoming tender and infused with the essence of the dish.
5. **Finish and Serve**: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, and your Slow Cooker Chicken and Pasta is ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International