Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups canned or packaged butternut squash purée
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- 2 teaspoons dried rubbed sage (or 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh sage)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 ounces dry rigatoni pasta
- 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup water (optional, for thinning sauce)
- Fresh parsley or chopped sage for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Butternut Squash Cream Sauce
In a large mixing bowl or measuring pitcher, whisk together:
- Butternut squash purée
- Chicken broth
- Heavy cream
- Grated Parmesan
- Sage
- Nutmeg
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Kosher salt
- Black pepper
- Olive oil
Whisk until smooth and well combined. This is your single pour-over sauce mixture.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the insert of a 6-quart slow cooker with olive oil or nonstick spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Step 3: Add the Chicken and Aromatics
Place the raw chicken breasts in a single layer on the bottom.
Scatter:
- Sliced yellow onion
- Minced garlic
Evenly over and around the chicken for maximum flavor.
Step 4: Layer the Pasta
Add the dry rigatoni on top of the chicken and onions.
Spread it evenly, but do not stir. Keeping the pasta on top helps it cook evenly in the sauce.
Step 5: Pour the Sauce
Slowly pour the butternut squash cream mixture over everything.
Make sure:
- All pasta is moistened
- Most of it is submerged
If needed, add up to 1/2 cup water to help cover exposed pasta.
Gently press down any pasta sticking out of the liquid.
Step 6: Cook
Cover and cook:
- LOW for 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 hours
OR - HIGH for 2 to 2 1/2 hours
Cooking times vary by slow cooker, so begin checking early.
The dish is done when:
- Chicken reaches 165°F internally
- Rigatoni is tender but still holds its shape
Step 7: Shred and Adjust
Once cooked:
- Use two forks to shred or slice the chicken directly in the slow cooker.
- Stir gently to combine everything into the creamy sauce.
If the sauce feels too thick:
- Add a splash of warm water or chicken broth
- Stir until desired consistency
Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
Step 8: Rest Before Serving
Cover and let the pasta sit for about 5 minutes.
This allows:
- The sauce to thicken slightly
- The flavors to fully meld
- The rigatoni to absorb extra creaminess
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Serve hot, topped with:
- Extra grated Parmesan
- Chopped fresh parsley or sage
The combination of creamy squash and savory chicken makes this an unforgettable comfort dish.
Expert Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the pasta—check early.
- If reheating later, add a splash of broth.
- Use boneless chicken thighs for extra tenderness.
Variations & Customization Ideas
Make It Lighter
Swap half of the heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half.
Add More Vegetables
During the last 15 minutes on LOW:
- Stir in 2 cups baby spinach or chopped kale.
You can also add:
- 1–2 cups broccoli florets
- Frozen peas
Smokier Flavor
Add 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika to the sauce mixture.
Sage Brown Butter Finish
Brown 2 tablespoons butter with fresh sage leaves and drizzle over the pasta before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat:
Warm gently on stovetop or microwave with extra broth or water.
Freezer:
Not ideal due to cream-based sauce, but can be frozen for up to 2 months if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken?
It’s best to thaw first for even cooking and food safety.
Can I cook the pasta separately?
Yes, but this recipe is designed for convenience with everything cooking together.
Can I substitute penne for rigatoni?
Absolutely. Use the same amount and check for doneness early.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Creamy Butternut Squash Chicken Rigatoni is the perfect blend of comfort and elegance. The sweet earthiness of butternut squash, savory sage, tender chicken, and creamy Parmesan create a dish that feels special yet effortless.