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Slow Cooker Creamy Goat Cheese Chicken Cavatelli

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Slow Cooker Creamy Goat Cheese Chicken Cavatelli

Description

Slow Cooker Creamy Goat Cheese Chicken Cavatelli is a rich, comforting, and gourmet-style pasta dish made with tender slow-cooked chicken, creamy goat cheese, garlic, and herbs tossed with chewy cavatelli pasta. The goat cheese creates a tangy, velvety sauce that coats every bite, making this dish perfect for cozy dinners, meal prep, or special family meals.

Ingredients For the Chicken

  • 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 1 cup chicken broth

For the Creamy Sauce & Pasta

  • 6 oz goat cheese (softened)
  • ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 12 oz cavatelli pasta (or any short pasta)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 cup spinach (optional)
  • Optional garnish: fresh basil or parsley

Instructions

  1. Place chicken, garlic, onion, broth, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and paprika into the slow cooker.
  2. Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours until chicken is tender.
  3. Remove chicken and shred using two forks. Return it to the slow cooker.
  4. Stir in goat cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan until smooth and creamy.
  5. Cook pasta separately according to package instructions until al dente. Drain.
  6. Add cooked cavatelli to the slow cooker and mix until well coated.
  7. Stir in spinach and let it wilt for 2–3 minutes.
  8. Drizzle olive oil or butter and mix gently.
  9. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.

Notes

  • Goat cheese melts into a tangy, creamy sauce—do not overheat after adding.
  • Cavatelli holds sauce beautifully due to its shape.
  • Chicken thighs give extra richness and tenderness.

Tips

  • Add sun-dried tomatoes for deeper flavor.
  • Use fresh cracked pepper for better taste.
  • A splash of pasta water can loosen sauce if needed.

Servings

6 servings

Nutritional Info (Approx. Per Serving)

  • Calories: 520
  • Protein: 38g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fat: 24g
  • Fiber: 2g

Benefits

  • High in protein
  • Rich and creamy comfort food
  • Slow cooker convenience
  • Balanced carbs and protein for energy
  • Restaurant-style flavor at home

Q&A

Can I substitute goat cheese?

Yes, cream cheese or ricotta works, but flavor will be milder.

Can I use other pasta?

Yes, penne, shells, or rigatoni work well.

Can I make it lighter?

Use low-fat cream and reduce cheese slightly.

Can I freeze it?

Yes, but texture may change slightly after thawing.

What vegetables can I add?

Spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli all work great.

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