Crock Pot Creamy Cheddar Bacon Chicken Rigatoni

Tender shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and perfectly cooked rigatoni come together in a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce. This easy slow cooker dinner is packed with comforting flavors and makes a delicious family meal for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 12 oz rigatoni pasta
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Place the chicken breasts in the Crock Pot. Season with minced garlic, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt.
2. Pour the chicken broth over the chicken. Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
3. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the Crock Pot.
4. Add the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and butter. Stir until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
5. Meanwhile, cook the rigatoni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well.
6. Stir the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon into the chicken mixture until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
7. Add the cooked rigatoni to the Crock Pot and gently stir until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.
8. Cover and cook on LOW for another 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through.
9. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra crumbled bacon if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips

• For the best flavor, use freshly shredded cheddar cheese.
• Cook the pasta separately to prevent it from becoming too soft.
• Add a splash of reserved pasta water or extra chicken broth if the sauce becomes too thick.
• For extra cheesiness, sprinkle additional cheddar cheese over the top before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables for a satisfying family dinner.