You’re about to embark on a culinary adventure with Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, a dish that is both easy to prepare and utterly satisfying. Picture tender chicken infused with robust flavors of garlic and Parmesan, all served over perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is here to simplify your meal prep while still delivering a comforting, hearty meal your family will adore. With just a few ingredients and your trusty crockpot, you’ll create a dish that feels gourmet without requiring countless hours in the kitchen.
Why We Love This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
There’s an undeniable magic in creating a meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta encapsulates that magic perfectly. The slow-cooking process allows flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and creamy sauce that clings to every bite of chicken and pasta. Plus, the hands-off cooking method frees you up for other tasks while dinner simmers away. Whether you’re coming home from a busy day or hosting friends for a cozy night in, this dish is your ticket to culinary success. Not to mention, the aroma that fills your kitchen as it cooks is simply irresistible!
Ingredients about Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
To whip up this delectable dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 1.5 to 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini works well)
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese
How to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Directions
Starting this delightful dish is a breeze, especially when you rely on your crockpot. Here’s how you can make it step by step:
- Begin your culinary journey by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This layer forms the foundation for the mouthwatering flavors to come.
- Next, pour 2 cups of chicken broth over the chicken. This broth not only infuses moisture but also forms a rich base for the sauce.
- Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon each of dried thyme, dried basil, and dried oregano over the chicken. Then add 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This combination of seasonings will elevate the dish to new heights, filling each bite with a burst of flavor.
- Distribute 1/4 cup of butter cubes evenly over the seasoned chicken. As the butter melts, it will enhance the dish’s richness.
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook. Choose to cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, depending on your schedule. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is fully cooked and tender, practically falling apart.
- Once your chicken has reached that perfect tenderness, remove it from the crockpot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld even more when mixed with the sauce.
- Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot. Now, it’s time to add 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir everything together until the chicken is well-coated in the rich, creamy sauce that’s starting to form.
- While your chicken is simmering in deliciousness, cook 8 oz of pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Finally, add the cooked pasta to the crockpot and stir until it’s fully combined with the shredded chicken and creamy sauce.
- Serve this delightful dish immediately, garnishing with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if you desire.
How to Serve Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Serving this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is as satisfying as preparing it. Once you’ve plated your masterpiece, consider pairing it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to make the meal even more delightful. The creamy sauce pairs wonderfully with a light, crisp side, cutting through the richness of the pasta and chicken.
Garnishing with chopped fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brings a fresh flavor that brightens the dish. If you have extra Parmesan cheese on hand, don’t hesitate to sprinkle a little on top for those who can’t get enough of that cheesy goodness. This makes the dish visually appealing and adds an extra final flourish that guests will appreciate.
Whether it’s a family dinner on a weeknight or a special gathering, this dish will impress everyone at the table.
Expert Tips: Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
To enhance your cooking experience and ensure you achieve the best possible result, keep the following expert tips in mind:
- Quality Chicken: Choosing high-quality chicken breasts will make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture. Opt for organic or free-range chicken if available.
- Thorough Seasoning: Don’t skimp on the seasonings. Adjust according to your taste, but remember, these ingredients are crucial for building flavor throughout the dish.
- Add Veggies: For a more balanced meal, consider tossing in some vegetables like spinach or broccoli during the last 30 minutes of cooking. They will cook down nicely while imparting extra nutrients.
- Pasta Variations: While penne or rotini work splendidly, feel free to experiment with other pasta varieties. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure you achieve that perfect al dente texture.
- Butter Alternatives: If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can substitute the unsalted butter with olive oil. It may offer a slightly different flavor but is still delicious.
- Baking Addition: For a crispy texture, consider transferring the finished dish to a baking dish and broiling it for a few minutes. This will create a lovely, golden top that adds a new dimension to the flavors.
How to Store Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Leftovers from this scrumptious dish can be stored conveniently in your fridge or freezer. To store in the fridge, let the pasta cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It should be good for up to 3-4 days.
If you wish to store it long-term, consider freezing the dish. Use freezer-safe containers or bags to ensure quality. It can last for 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick meal.
Remember, the flavors will continue to develop even after cooking, making the leftovers taste even better the next day!
Variation of Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is incredibly versatile, allowing for a range of delicious variations. Here are a few ideas to get your creativity flowing:
- Chili Flakes for Heat: If you prefer a little spice, consider adding red pepper flakes along with the seasonings for a nice kick. Adjust the quantity according to your heat tolerance.
- Creamy Alternatives: Experiment with different types of cheese. For example, adding cream cheese or mozzarella can change the texture and flavor profile, giving a different take on the classic recipe.
- Using Different Proteins: While chicken is the star ingredient here, you can also substitute with turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken, which can save you some prep time.
- Plant-Based Option: For a vegetarian twist, replace chicken with a variety of beans or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can still enjoy the creamy texture by using plant-based cream alternatives.
- Seasonal Vegetables: Rotate in seasonal vegetables to keep the dish fresh throughout the year. Fall squash, zucchini, or asparagus – all can bring a unique flair to your pasta.
FAQ
What is Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delicious, creamy pasta dish made with chicken, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, all cooked together in a crockpot for a convenient and flavorful meal.
How long does it take to make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Depending on cooking settings, it takes about 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high to prepare.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, you may need to increase the cooking time to ensure they cook properly.
What type of pasta works best for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Penne and rotini are excellent choices due to their ability to hold onto sauce, but you can use any pasta variety you prefer.
How do I keep Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta from getting too dry?
To prevent the dish from drying out, ensure there is enough liquid in the crockpot. Adding extra chicken broth or cream can help maintain a creamy texture.
With this flavorful and comforting recipe, you’re now prepared to impress your family and friends with Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Enjoy the process and, more importantly, the scrumptious results!
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 to 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts High-quality chicken recommended.
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into cubes Can substitute with olive oil.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Extra for serving.
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini) Cook according to package instructions.
Optional Garnish
- to taste chopped fresh parsley
- to taste extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot.
- Pour 2 cups of chicken broth over the chicken.
- Sprinkle minced garlic, dried thyme, dried basil, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt over chicken.
- Distribute butter cubes evenly over the seasoned chicken.
Cooking
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
- Once done, remove the chicken and shred it using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir in grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- Add cooked pasta to the crockpot and stir until combined with the chicken and creamy sauce.
Serving
- Serve immediately, garnishing with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
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