Yummy in my tummy! I'm always excited to eat this when it's done!

Today, we're diving into the delightful world of Italian cuisine with a modern twist: Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Carbonara. Carbonara hails from Rome and traditionally features a silky sauce made from eggs, cheese, pancetta, and pepper. By using a slow cooker, we're simplifying the process and adding our own Midwestern flair with creamy chicken. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to come home to a comforting and flavorful meal with minimal effort.

Creamy Chicken Carbonara pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. Additionally, serve it with a side of garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up any extra sauce. For a complete meal, a glass of crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc can make a lovely complement.

Servings: 4-6

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in the slow cooker.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, garlic, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour the mixture over the chicken.

Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the sauce.

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and add the pasta to the slow cooker, tossing to coat the pasta with the creamy chicken sauce.

Stir in the crumbled bacon and mix well.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

For a different flavor profile, try substituting pancetta or prosciutto for the bacon. You can also mix in some peas or sautéed mushrooms towards the end of cooking for added texture and nutrition. If you're watching your carbs, swap the pasta with spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles.