Slow Cooker Chicken & Cavatelli 

Slow Cooker Chicken & Cavatelli

This easy 4-ingredient slow cooker chicken and pasta recipe is the ultimate comfort food dinner for busy days. Made with tender chicken thighs, frozen cavatelli, rich gravy, and savory broth, this set-it-and-forget-it slow cooker meal delivers a hearty, satisfying dish with minimal effort. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, and cozy comfort food cravings, this recipe creates a rich, umami-packed sauce that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 24 ounces frozen cavatelli (kept frozen)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup brown gravy or beef gravy

Instructions

1. Lightly grease your slow cooker (5–6 quart) with oil or nonstick spray.
2. Add the chicken thighs evenly to the bottom.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the broth and gravy until smooth.
4. Pour the sauce over the chicken, fully coating it.
5. Cover and cook:
   • LOW for 4 hours OR
   • HIGH for 2–2½ hours
6. Stir, then add the frozen cavatelli.
7. Cover and cook on HIGH for 45–75 minutes, stirring once halfway through.
8. Once the pasta is tender and the sauce is thick and glossy, taste and adjust seasoning.
9. Let rest on WARM for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Benefits of This Recipe

• Time-saving meal only 4 ingredients and minimal prep
• High-protein comfort food chicken thighs provide rich flavor and protein
• Hearty & filling cavatelli absorbs the savory gravy for a satisfying texture
• Beginner-friendly perfect for easy weeknight cooking
• Slow cooker convenience hands-off cooking while you go about your day
• Budget-friendly recipe uses simple, affordable ingredients
• Customizable easy to adapt with herbs, cream, or different proteins

Tips & Variations

• Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a leaner option (watch cooking time).
• Add 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce for deeper umami flavor.
• Stir in ½ cup sour cream or heavy cream at the end for a creamy slow cooker pasta.
• Add extra broth for a lighter, stew-like consistency.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a fresh, spring-inspired finish.

Serving Ideas

Serve this slow cooker chicken and pasta dish with:

• Fresh green salad
• Buttered peas or green beans
• Warm dinner rolls or crusty bread
• Light dessert like berries or lemon bars