Try the ultimate easy Italian dinner with my Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole made in the Crockpot.
This cheesy chicken pasta recipe features tender chicken breast, pasta, marinara, and alfredo sauces, all topped with a perfect blend of melty mozzarella and parmesan perfection, it's an effortlessly delicious masterpiece. It's enjoyed by picky eaters as well as those with an advanced pallet.
Get ready to dive into a plateful of goodness with our Tom-Fredo Cheesy Chicken Pasta! We took the classic duo of tomato marinara and alfredo sauces to a whole new level, and I'm calling it 'Tom-Fredo' because, well, it's so good it needs it's own name.
Tender chicken breast, perfectly cooked pasta, and a blend of marinara and Alfredo sauces create a seriously tasty experience, topped off with a gooey layer of melted mozzarella and parmesan. It's comfort food at its finest!
Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole
The best part? It's a breeze to whip up, requiring just 10 minutes of prep time, and the best news is it all comes together in the crockpot! Dinners just got a whole lot more delicious and stress-free.
Get ready for a seriously cheesy chicken pasta adventure that's not just easy to make but destined to be a family go-to. It's about to become your new comfort food crush. If you haven't tried my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta it is another easy toss and go dinner.
A quick note: You have two options on how to put this together.
Option 1 (Casserole Style): Mix the al-dente pasta into the Crock Pot about 20 minutes before serving. This is how I do it and how the recipe is written. This makes it more of a casserole.
Option 2 (Pasta and Sauce Style): Don't mix the pasta into the Crock Pot. Follow all other directions, but just add the naked pasta to the bowl or plate (instead of to the cooker). Then pour the sauce over it and serve. This would be better if you plan on having leftovers (will keep the pasta from getting too soft when you reheat).
A Copycat Recipe "Sorta"
This mouthwatering Cheesy Chicken Pasta masterpiece draws its inspiration from a beloved dish known as 'The Big Rig' served at the renowned Oregano's restaurant in Arizona.
This recipe pays homage to the magic of 'The Big Rig'. After savoring the delightful combination at Oregano's, I wanted to make 'The Big Rig' right at home. So, buckle up for a flavorful journey inspired by Oregano's, and let's recreate the magic of their iconic dish with our Cheesy Chicken Pasta adventure!
I used the classic and amazing Raos Marinara and Raos Garlic Alfredo to make the base of this recipe which takes it to a whole new flavor level.
Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Pasta
- Chicken Breast (1.5 to 2 lb): Lean protein base for substance and savory notes.
- Marinara Sauce (24 oz): Robust tomato-based flavor for depth and acidity.
- Alfredo Sauce (15 oz): Creamy and indulgent texture for a luscious coating.
- Salt (½ tsp) and Pepper (½ tsp): Seasonings to enhance overall flavor.
- Onion Powder (1 tsp): Adds a sweet and savory undertone.
- Italian Seasoning (1 tsp): Infuses a blend of herbs for an Italian-inspired taste.
- Red Pepper Flakes (¼ tsp): Provides a subtle kick of heat.
- Minced Garlic (1 tbsp): Enhances savory and aromatic qualities.
- Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts into a rich, cheesy layer.
- Penne Pasta (12 oz box): Hearty base for absorbing flavorful sauces. You have flexibility here - you can opt for rigatoni, ziti, or other pastas.
- Parmesan Cheese (for serving): Salty, nutty finish for added umami.
- Fresh Basil (for garnish): Adds color and herbal freshness for visual appeal.
Each ingredient contributes uniquely to the Cheesy Chicken Pasta, resulting in a dinner that everyone will want seconds of.
5 Reasons to Make this Crockpot Chicken Recipe
- Easy-Breezy Cooking Magic: This recipe is as simple as pie (or pasta, in this case)! No culinary acrobatics here - just easy steps and everyday ingredients for a stress-free cooking adventure.
- Set It and Forget It Fun: Let your crockpot do the cha-cha! Throw everything in, hit play, and make your way through the day. This recipe is practically a kitchen DJ, leaving you free to conquer the world (or catch up on your favorite shows).
- Flavor Fiesta: We've got a dynamic duo of Marinara and Alfredo sauces—aka the Batman and Robin of the culinary world. It's a taste explosion that'll have your taste buds doing the tango.
- Protein Party: Chicken breast is the VIP guest, but feel free to invite other proteins to this party. It's the ultimate shindig where chicken thighs, beef, or even a plant-based alternative can show off their moves.
- Hug in a Bowl: This dish isn't just food; it's a warm, cheesy, saucy hug for your taste buds. It's like your favorite comfort food and a celebration rolled into one—because why should fun and deliciousness be separate?
How to Make Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Pasta
Pour in the sauces: Pour the Marinara Sauce and Alfredo Sauce over the chicken. Make sure the chicken is well-coated with the sauces.
1. Place the chicken
in the bottom of the crockpot.
2. Add the sauce
3. Stir & add seasonings
Stir the sauce. Add in salt, pepper, onion powder, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Whisk or stir together.
Cook on low: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
4. Shred the chicken
Remove the chicken breast from the sauce and put on a plate or in a bowl.
Shred the chicken with two forks.
5. Add the chicken back to cooker
Add the shredded chicken back to the crockpot and stir the shredded chicken to combine it with the creamy sauce.
Recover the crockpot and continue cooking.
6. Cook the pasta
Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta. It's important to take the pasta off the stove before it's fully soft. It will cook a little more in the sauce and you don't want it to get too soft.
7. Add pasta to the sauce
Carefully add the pasta to the Crock Pot.
8. Gently mix pasta and sauce
Gently stir to combine pasta with the sauce.
9. Add the mozzarella cheese
Add mozzarella. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken and pasta mixture. Cover the crockpot again and let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Done!
Serve. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and basil.
Enjoy: Your creamy crockpot chicken pasta is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
What to Serve with Chicken with Pasta
Alright, so you've got this Cheesy Chicken Pasta masterpiece sizzling away, and now you need some wingmen to make it a full-on feast, right? Picture this: a crunchy salad with a tangy dressing to keep things fresh and lively. And what's a pasta party without some garlic bread or, better yet, warm, crusty rolls to mop up all that cheesy goodness?
Get Creative with Cheesy Chicken Pasta
So, here's the deal with this Cheesy Chicken Pasta—it's the perfect dinner when you have no idea what to make. Tweak it, twist it, and make it totally your own! Switch up the sauces, throw in some extras like veggies or your favorite cheese, and let your taste buds lead the way. It's the kind-of recipe that's all about you and your flavor vibes. So, get creative, have fun, and make this dish your kitchen masterpiece!
- Protein Variations:
- Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken thighs for chicken breast for a juicier and more flavorful alternative.
- Ground Turkey or Beef: Swap out chicken for ground turkey or beef for a different protein profile.
- Vegetarian: For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with diced tofu or your favorite meat alternative.
- Sauce Switch-ups:
- Vodka Sauce: Experiment with a creamy vodka sauce for a unique twist.
- Pesto: Replace both Marinara and Alfredo sauces with your favorite pesto for a vibrant, herby flavor.
- Arrabbiata Sauce: Add a spicy kick by using Arrabbiata sauce instead of Marinara.
- Cheese Choices:
- Cheddar or Monterey Jack: Substitute mozzarella with cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different cheesy flavor.
- Parmesan Reggiano: Use Parmesan Reggiano for a more intense and nutty Parmesan flavor.
- Gouda or Fontina: Experiment with gouda or fontina for a creamier and milder cheese topping.
- Pasta Varieties:
- Use any pasta you have in the pantry. All of them will work great with this cheesy sauce.
- Vegetable Additions:
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms can add an earthy flavor to the dish.
- Zucchini or Bell Peppers: Include diced zucchini or colorful bell peppers for added freshness and crunch.
- Peas: Add peas into the sauce just before you add the pasta
- Broccoli: Mix in some cooked broccoli for those sneaky veggies!
- Herb and Spice Tweaks:
- Smoked Paprika: Add a smoky flavor by incorporating smoked paprika instead of red pepper flakes.
- Add more red pepper flakes to add some more spice to the recipe.
Extra Tips for Making Cheesy Chicken Pasta
- Shred the Chicken Easily: If the chicken is cooked well, it should easily shred with two forks. If you find it resisting, it might need a bit more cooking time.
- Mix Pasta Just Before Serving: To prevent the pasta from becoming too soft or mushy, add it cooked al-dente to the crockpot during the last minutes of cooking. This ensures the pasta is perfectly cooked just before serving.
- RECIPE DEVIATION: You can also choose to NOT add the pasta to the Crock Pot and pour the sauce over pasta when serving. I've not done this though.
- Use Fresh Herbs: If available, add a handful of fresh herbs like basil or oregano during the last stages of cooking. Fresh herbs can elevate the overall taste and add a burst of aromatic freshness.
- Customize the Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses or a blend of cheeses for the topping. Gouda, provolone, or a touch of cheddar can add unique flavors to the dish.
- Add Vegetables: Boost the nutritional value by incorporating veggies like diced bell peppers, peas, cherry tomatoes, broccoli, or spinach. These not only add color but also contribute freshness and vitamins.
- Finish with a Drizzle: Just before serving, drizzle a bit of high-quality olive oil over the dish. This adds a luxurious touch and enhances the overall mouthfeel.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sometimes a pinch more salt or a dash of black pepper can make all the difference.
Food Allergies
All of the ingredients I use in this recipe are gluten-free.
You will need to make sure to use gluten-free products to keep this recipe gluten-free. Make sure to use gluten-free pasta. I love the gluten-free Barilla penne. Also, make sure to use gluten free bread if you serve this dish with bread.
How to Store Crockpot Chicken
To store your leftover Cheesy Chicken Pasta in the fridge, follow these simple steps:
- Cool Down: Allow the pasta to cool slightly at room temperature before refrigerating to avoid creating excess moisture.
- Portion into Containers: Divide the pasta into airtight containers or resealable plastic bags. Portioning helps with reheating and prevents the entire batch from absorbing fridge odors.
- Label and Date: For easy identification, label the containers with the contents and date of preparation. This helps you keep track of freshness.
- Refrigerate Promptly: Place the containers in the refrigerator promptly after cooling. Ensure the fridge temperature is set at 40°F (4°C) or below to maintain food safety.
- Use Within 3-4 Days: Consume the stored Cheesy Chicken Pasta within 3-4 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
Can You Freeze This Chicken Pasta Dish?
I don't love to freeze this recipe. Pasta tends to not freeze well because the freezing process can alter its texture. When frozen, pasta tends to become mushy or grainy upon thawing, especially if it's fully cooked before freezing.
To maintain better texture, I recommended if you know you are going to freeze a part of this recipe portion out that amount before adding the pasta. Freeze the chicken mixture with the directions below and then make new pasta once you have defrosted the chicken.
Follow these steps to ensure the best results:
- Cool Completely: Allow the Cheesy Chicken Pasta to cool completely at room temperature before freezing. This helps prevent ice crystals from forming during freezing.
- Portion into Freezer Bags or Containers: Divide the pasta into portions suitable for your needs. Consider using freezer-safe bags or airtight containers, leaving some space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
- Remove Excess Air: If using bags, try to remove as much air as possible before sealing to minimize freezer burn.
- Label and Date: Clearly label each bag or container with the contents and the date of preparation. This helps you keep track of storage times.
- Freeze Flat: If using bags, freeze them flat initially. Once solid, you can stack them to save space.
- Use Within 2-3 Months: For the best quality, aim to use the frozen Cheesy Chicken Pasta within 2-3 months. While it may remain safe to eat beyond this time, the texture and flavor may start to degrade.
Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 lbs. chicken breast boneless, skinless
- 12 oz Gluten-Free Penne pasta
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese shredded
- 24 oz marinara
- 15 oz alfredo
- ½ tsp pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon garlic minced
- 16 oz pasta gluten free
- Parmesan cheese
- fresh basil finely chopped
Instructions
- Layer in the crockpot: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
- Pour in the sauces: Pour the marinara sauce and alfredo sauce over the chicken. Make sure the chicken is well-coated with the sauces.
- Add salt, pepper, onion powder, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes to crock pot. Gently stir.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred the chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove from cooker to shred. Use two forks to shred it. Add the shredded chicken back to the crockpot and stir the shredded chicken to combine it with the creamy sauce.
- Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse pasta in sink. Add to cooker with the chicken and sauce. Mix well (but be gentle with the pasta).
- Add mozzarella: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken sauce mixture. Cover the crockpot again and let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Serve the creamy chicken over the cooked pasta. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and chopped basil.
Video
Denise P says
Can I use frozen chicken breasts? And if so, does it alter the cooking time at all? Thank you!
Matt Fay says
Hi Denise. Yes, you can absolutely use frozen chicken breast. You'd still be safe with the 4-6 hour cook time but you might want to lean toward the longer time if possible (closer to that 6 hour mark). The breast will most likely be done and safe to eat at 4 hours, but for better shredding longer time would be better.
Christy says
Nowhere in the ingredients does it mention mozerella and no where in the instructions does it mention Parmesan. I don’t think it’s a mistype. I think the recipe probably meant to include both cheeses.
Matt Fay says
Hi Christy. A couple of things here. You're right in that the printable recipe card was missing the mozzarella. That was posted in my writeup, but not on the printable card. That's been corrected (thanks for bringing that up). The Parmesan is included in the final step. You'd just sprinkle Parmesan over the top of the finished dish as you serve it. Parmesan is added "to taste".