- Slow Cooker Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Rigatoni
Introduction
Warm, creamy, and packed with comforting flavors, this Slow Cooker Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Rigatoni is the perfect dinner for busy days. Tender chicken slowly cooks with sweet butternut squash, garlic, herbs, and a rich, creamy sauce that coats every bite of hearty rigatoni. The slow cooker does most of the work, making this an easy, family-friendly meal that’s perfect for weeknights, cozy weekends, or meal prep.
With its creamy texture and savory flavor, this comforting pasta dish is guaranteed to become a new favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Easy slow cooker meal with minimal prep
– Creamy, rich, and full of flavor
– Tender chicken and perfectly cooked butternut squash
– Great for family dinners and meal prep
– Comfort food everyone will love
Ingredients
For the Slow Cooker
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 4 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– ½ teaspoon dried thyme
– ½ teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Pasta
– 12 ounces rigatoni
– Water, for boiling
– Salt, for the pasta water
For the Creamy Finish
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
– Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. Place the chicken, butternut squash, onion, garlic, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper into the slow cooker.
2. Cover and cook on Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the squash is soft.
3. Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks.
4. Mash some of the butternut squash into the cooking liquid to create a naturally creamy sauce.
5. Stir in the heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
6. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and add the spinach, if using. Stir until the spinach wilts.
7. Meanwhile, cook the rigatoni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well.
8. Add the cooked rigatoni to the slow cooker and gently toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Tips
– Chicken thighs can be used for even juicier results.
– Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
– Reserve a splash of pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy rigatoni with garlic bread, roasted broccoli, steamed green beans, or a crisp Caesar salad. Finish the meal with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper.
- Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Rigatoni is rich, comforting, and incredibly easy to prepare. With tender chicken, velvety butternut squash, and perfectly cooked pasta in a creamy Parmesan sauce, it’s a satisfying one-pot meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.