Crock Pot Chicken Pasta With Smoked Gouda

There’s something deeply comforting about a creamy, cheesy pasta dish. For me, it evokes memories of childhood family gatherings, where my grandmother’s macaroni and cheese always took center stage. This Crock Pot Chicken Pasta with Smoked Gouda is a grown-up, weeknight-friendly twist on that classic comfort food. The smoky cheese adds a sophisticated depth of flavor, while the slow cooker makes it incredibly easy to prepare, filling your home with the most tantalizing aroma all day long.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5-6 hours
• Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes to 6 hours 20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Type: Not specified

Ingredients

• 1 1⁄2 lbs chicken tenders, boneless
• 2 small zucchini, halved and sliced 1/8-inch thick
• 1 (1 ounce) package chicken-flavored gravy mix
• 2 tablespoons water
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• 1 pinch ground nutmeg, fresh if possible
• 8 ounces smoked gouda cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons evaporated milk (or light cream)
• 1 large tomatoes, chopped
• 4 cups cooked macaroni (or you may use small shell pasta)

Equipment Needed

• Crock-Pot (slow cooker)
• Cheese grater
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Large pot (for pasta)

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing your chicken. Cut the chicken tenders into 1-inch cubes. This will ensure even cooking and a better texture in the final dish.
2. Place the cubed chicken directly into the crock-pot.
3. Next, prepare the zucchini. Halve the zucchini lengthwise, then slice it into pieces that are approximately 1/8-inch thick. Add the sliced zucchini to the crock-pot on top of the chicken.
4. In a small bowl, combine the chicken-flavored gravy mix with 2 tablespoons of water. Whisk to create a smooth slurry. Pour this mixture over the chicken and zucchini in the crock-pot.
5. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. A pinch of freshly ground nutmeg adds a subtle warmth and complexity to the flavor profile. Sprinkle the nutmeg over the ingredients in the crock-pot.
6. Cover the crock-pot and cook on low heat for 5 to 6 hours. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on your specific slow cooker model, so keep an eye on it towards the end. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender.
7. During the last 20 minutes of cooking time (or while the macaroni is cooking), add the smoked gouda cheese, evaporated milk (or light cream), and chopped tomato to the crock-pot. Stir well to combine, allowing the cheese to melt and create a creamy sauce.
8. While the cheese is melting in the crock-pot, prepare the macaroni/pasta according to the package directions. Cook until al dente – firm to the bite. Drain the pasta thoroughly.
9. Once the pasta is cooked and drained, and the cheese sauce is melted and creamy in the crock-pot, stir the hot cooked macaroni into the crock-pot. Mix well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the cheesy chicken and vegetable mixture.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overcook the zucchini: Slicing the zucchini thinly helps it cook evenly. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t become mushy. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can add it to the crock-pot later in the cooking process.
• Freshly grated cheese is best: Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting as smoothly. Grating your own smoked gouda will result in a creamier, more flavorful sauce.
• Spice it up: For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the crock-pot along with the other seasonings.
• Enhance the smokiness: If you really love that smoky flavor, consider adding a few drops of liquid smoke to the crock-pot. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
• Brown the Chicken: While not strictly necessary, searing the chicken in a pan before adding it to the slow cooker can add another layer of flavour and texture. A quick sear will help to lock in moisture.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Crock Pot Chicken Pasta with Smoked Gouda hot, straight from the crock-pot. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few extra chopped tomatoes for a pop of color. This dish is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions. Freezing is not recommended, as the pasta and cheese sauce may change texture upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value (approximate)
Calories	658 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	186 g	N/A
Total Fat	20.8 g	31%
Saturated Fat	11.5 g	57%
Cholesterol	165.7 mg	55%
Sodium	902.3 mg	37%
Total Carbohydrate	51.3 g	17%
Dietary Fiber	3.9 g	15%
Sugars	5.2 g	N/A
Protein	63.6 g	N/A

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian option: Substitute the chicken tenders with 1 (15-ounce) can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed. Add them to the crock-pot along with the zucchini.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free macaroni or pasta.
• Different cheese: If you’re not a fan of smoked gouda, try using cheddar, Gruyere, or Monterey Jack.
• Add vegetables: Other vegetables that would work well in this dish include bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Add them to the crock-pot along with the zucchini.
• Creamier sauce: For an even richer sauce, add an extra tablespoon or two of evaporated milk or heavy cream.
• Italian herbs: Add a teaspoon of dried Italian herbs for more flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
A: It’s best to use thawed chicken tenders for even cooking. If you must use frozen, ensure they are fully thawed before adding them to the crock-pot.

Q: Can I cook this on high instead of low?
A: While you can cook it on high, it’s not recommended. Cooking on low allows the flavors to meld together better and prevents the chicken from drying out. If you do cook on high, reduce the cooking time to 2-3 hours.

Q: Do I need to brown the chicken before putting it in the crock-pot?
A: No, browning the chicken is not necessary, but it will add an extra layer of flavor.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can prepare all the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the crock-pot in the refrigerator. Add the cheese, milk, and tomatoes during the last 20 minutes of cooking time as directed.

Q: My sauce is too thick. How can I thin it out?
A: Add a splash of milk, cream, or chicken broth to thin out the sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Crock Pot Chicken Pasta with Smoked Gouda is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a perfect blend of smoky, cheesy, and comforting flavors. It’s an incredibly versatile dish that can be customized to suit your preferences and dietary needs. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your crock-pot, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and effortless meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses, vegetables, and seasonings to create your own signature version. Enjoy, and please share your feedback!