Slow Cooker Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Rigatoni

Introduction

Slow Cooker Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Rigatoni is the perfect comfort meal
that blends hearty pasta, tender chicken, and a rich, velvety butternut squash sauce.
This cozy dish is ideal for busy days when you want a homemade dinner without standing
over the stove. The slow cooker gently develops deep flavors while keeping the chicken
juicy and the sauce luxuriously creamy. It’s family-friendly, satisfying, and perfect
for fall or any time you crave warm, comforting flavors.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base: Place cubed butternut squash, onion, garlic,
   chicken broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker.
   Stir gently to combine.
2. Add the Chicken: Nestle the chicken breasts into the mixture.
   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. Shred and Blend: Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks.
   Use an immersion blender to puree the squash mixture until smooth and creamy.
   (If using a regular blender, carefully blend in batches.)
4. Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese
   until fully combined and creamy.
5. Cook the Pasta: Meanwhile, cook rigatoni according to package
   directions until al dente. Drain well.
6. Combine Everything: Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
   Add cooked rigatoni and toss until evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
7. Finish and Serve: Drizzle with olive oil, garnish with fresh
   parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Description

This dish features tender shredded chicken enveloped in a naturally sweet and creamy
butternut squash sauce. The Parmesan adds a savory depth, while the rigatoni holds the
sauce beautifully in every bite. It’s a wholesome yet indulgent meal with balanced
flavors—slightly sweet, savory, and perfectly comforting.

Tips

• Sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker for extra flavor.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for mild heat.
• Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream if you prefer a lighter sauce.
• Stir in fresh spinach at the end for added color and nutrition.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of warm broth to loosen it.

Correction & Helpful Notes

• Do not overcook the pasta before mixing it into the sauce; it should be slightly firm (al dente).
• Blend the squash mixture carefully to avoid splattering hot liquid.
• Taste and adjust salt after adding Parmesan, as cheese naturally adds saltiness.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Enjoy

Serve this creamy butternut squash chicken rigatoni with warm crusty bread or a fresh
green salad for a complete meal. It’s cozy, creamy, and guaranteed to bring comfort
to your dinner table. Enjoy every warm and satisfying bite!