This Nando’s Peri-Peri Chicken Pasta is one of my best recipes, made with simple ingredients like chicken breasts, cream cheese, Nando’s Peri-Peri Sauce, dried oregano, and Parmesan cheese.

To make Nando’s Peri-Peri Chicken Pasta in your slow cooker or crockpot, simply place the chicken, season with spices, add the sauce and cream cheese, and set to cook on low for about four hours.

I’ve found that making this dish on a lazy weekend not only fills the kitchen with fantastic aromas but also brings a cozy, comforting vibe to any meal.

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Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?

Yes, this Slow Cooker Nando’s Chicken Pasta can be prepared in advance by cooking it as directed and then storing it in the refrigerator. It’s perfect for reheating and tends to absorb more flavors, making it even more delicious the next day.

Slow Cooker Nando’s Chicken Pasta Ingredients

• 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 tsp of dried oregano
• A dash of black pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• One 9.2 oz bottle of Nando’s Peri-Peri Sauce
• 1.5 cups of chicken broth
• 8 oz of full-fat cream cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
• 12 oz of cooked pasta (to be served separately)

How To Make Slow Cooker Nando’s Chicken Pasta

1. Prepare the slow cooker: Place the chicken breasts inside, season them with black pepper and dried oregano, and add a bay leaf for enhanced flavor.
2. Add liquids and cheese: Pour the Nando’s Peri-Peri Sauce over the chicken, follow with the chicken broth, and dot the surface with cream cheese to ensure even melting.
3. Cooking time: Set your slow cooker to low and cook for about 4 hours, or until the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. Shred and mix: Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks directly in the pot; stir well to combine the shredded chicken with the sauce and fully incorporate the cream cheese.
5. Adjust seasonings: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed to suit your palate perfectly.
6. Serve and garnish: Spoon the saucy chicken over cooked pasta in bowls, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, and add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, if desired.

Recipe Tips

• Check the Sauce Consistency: If you find the sauce too thick after cooking, you can thin it by adding a little more chicken broth or water until you reach the desired consistency.
• Enhance the Flavor: For an added depth of flavor, consider sautéing garlic and onions before adding them to the slow cooker; this will enrich the overall taste of the dish.
• Shredding the Chicken: Make sure to shred the chicken in the sauce while it’s still hot; this helps it absorb more flavor and distributes the creamy texture evenly.
• Cream Cheese Substitute: If you prefer a lighter version, you can replace the full-fat cream cheese with a reduced-fat or Neufchatel cheese, which will still give a creamy consistency but with fewer calories.

Recipe Variations

• Swap the Protein: Instead of chicken, you can use shrimp or tofu as the protein in this recipe; just adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.
• Change the Pasta: Experiment with different types of pasta like penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta to add a new texture and boost the nutritional value of the dish.
• Spice Level Adjustment: If you’re sensitive to spice, use a milder version of the Peri-Peri sauce or mix it with a bit of tomato sauce to cut down on the heat while keeping the flavor.
• Add Veggies: Mix in vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms in the last hour of cooking to incorporate more colors and nutrients into your meal.
• Make it Cheesy: For cheese lovers, adding a mix of mozzarella and cheddar in the last 30 minutes of cooking will create a beautifully melted and flavorful topping.

What Can I Substitute for Nando’s Peri-Peri Sauce If I Can’t Find It?

If Nando’s Peri-Peri Sauce is unavailable, you can substitute it with any other chili-based sauce like Sriracha or a homemade peri-peri sauce using chili peppers, garlic, and lemon juice. These alternatives provide a similar spicy kick.

How Do I Know When the Chicken Is Fully Cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Using a meat thermometer will ensure accurate reading. Properly cooked chicken should be tender and easy to shred with forks.

What To Serve With Nando’s Chicken Pasta

To complement your hearty Nando’s Chicken Pasta, consider creative sides like a tangy Greek salad, roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze, grilled asparagus, caramelized onion focaccia, or a refreshing cucumber and dill salad.

You can also pair it with crispy parmesan zucchini fries or a vibrant beetroot salad. These sides add a delightful contrast in flavors and textures that enhance the main dish.

How To Store Leftover Nando’s Chicken Pasta

In The Fridge: Store leftover Nando’s Chicken Pasta in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cooled to room temperature before refrigerating. I prefer glass containers as they keep food fresh longer.

In The Freezer: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. Freezing it can change the texture of the pasta and cream cheese, making it less appealing. I would avoid freezing as it doesn’t thaw well.

How To Reheat Leftover Nando’s Chicken Pasta

Reheat your leftover Nando’s Chicken Pasta by placing it in a saucepan over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.

Stir occasionally until heated through, which should take about 5 minutes. For best results, don’t microwave as it can dry out the pasta.

Check out More Slow Cooker Recipes:

• Slow Cooker Chicken Pesto Pasta
• Slow Cooker Sausage Ragu
• Bored of Lunch Slow Cooker Chicken and Chorizo Pasta