Are you ready to transform your dinner into something absolutely delightful? You’ll want to try The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe! This dish combines tender, shredded chicken simmered in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce with your favorite pasta. Not only is this recipe irresistibly tasty, but it also takes minimal effort, thanks to the magic of the crockpot. Imagine coming home after a long day to a warm, comforting meal that practically makes itself. That’s what this recipe does for you!
Why We Love This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
There are countless reasons to love this recipe, starting with its simplicity. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip this up! Just toss everything into the crockpot, set it, and let it do the work for you. The chicken becomes incredibly tender as it cooks slowly, soaking up all the savory goodness from the garlic and Parmesan. This results in a dish that is bursting with flavor!
Another reason this recipe shines is its versatility. You can use whichever pasta shape you prefer, be it penne, rotini, or any other. Everything melds together beautifully, creating a creamy, dreamy meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it makes excellent leftovers, which is always a plus in a busy household.
Finally, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you are hosting family and friends or just cooking for yourself, everyone can appreciate a hearty bowl of pasta. With that in mind, let’s look at what you will need to create this masterpiece.
Ingredients for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
To make The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, gather the following ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite)
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Optional: chopped parsley or extra Parmesan for garnish
These simple ingredients come together to create an extraordinary dish that requires no special skills—just your love for good food!
How to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe Directions
Making The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a straightforward process that anyone can handle. Begin by preparing your chicken. Take the chicken breasts and place them at the bottom of your crockpot. This chicken will be the hero of your dish, so ensure they are spread out evenly.
Next, sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt all over the chicken. This mixture of spices will infuse your meat with flavor, setting the stage for a scrumptious meal.
Now, it’s time to add the liquids and creams. Pour the chicken broth directly over the seasoned chicken. Then, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Carefully place the cubed cream cheese into the crockpot, followed by the minced garlic. The combination of these ingredients will create a rich and creamy sauce as they cook.
Cover your crockpot with its lid, and set it to cook on low for about 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. The key here is to allow the chicken to become tender and easy to shred. You’ll know it’s done when it can be pulled apart effortlessly with a fork.
Once the chicken is cooked, take two forks and shred it right in the crockpot. Stir everything together to combine the shredded chicken with the creamy sauce. This step allows the flavors to meld even further, ensuring every bite is delicious.
While you’re preparing the chicken, you can cook your pasta. Follow the package instructions, boil it until it’s al dente, and then drain it. Once drained, add the pasta to the crockpot.
Finally, to achieve that coveted creaminess, pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Stir everything together until the pasta is well coated in the delightful sauce. You’ll want to serve this dish warm, and you can garnish with extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of chopped parsley if you wish.
How to Serve Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Serving The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is as easy as enjoying it. Once you’ve prepared this hearty dish, ladle it onto individual plates or bowls. The creamy sauce should coat the pasta beautifully, creating a mouthwatering dish that looks as good as it tastes.
If you like, you can add a sprinkle of chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Extra Parmesan cheese alongside can also elevate the flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to balance out the richness.
Sharing a meal like this brings joy to any dining table. Whether you’re having a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to relish the cozy aromas that will fill your home!
Expert Tips: Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
To help you make the most of your cooking experience, here are some expert tips for The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:
- Choose Quality Chicken: Look for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts to enhance the flavor of your dish. Organic or free-range chicken can make a significant difference in taste.
- Don’t Rush the Cooking Time: The slow and steady cooking method allows the chicken to absorb all the flavors. Resist the temptation to lift the lid too often, as this prolongs the cooking time.
- Pasta Choice Matters: While you can use any pasta, softer pasta shapes like rotini may hold the creamy sauce better than thinner varieties. Experiment to find your favorite.
- Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a richer sauce, increase the amount of cream or half-and-half you use. On the other hand, if you want it lighter, you can reduce this amount.
- Garnishment Enhances Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or additional cheese not only makes your dish look enticing but also enhances the flavor. Fresh parsley or basil works wonderfully!
Implementing these tips can elevate your cooking game and make this recipe even more enjoyable.
How to Store Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Leftovers can be a delightful part of any meal! If you have any Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta remaining, store it properly to keep it fresh. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it into airtight containers.
You can keep the dish in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. Be mindful to add a splash of broth or cream while reheating to regain some of the creaminess.
If you’d like to store it longer, consider freezing the pasta. The dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to divide it into portions before freezing for quick, easy meals later. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variation of Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
While the classic version of The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is fantastic, here are some variations to keep things exciting:
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to toss in vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers about 30 minutes before you finish cooking. This not only adds nutrition but also vibrant colors.
- Spice It Up: If you love a kick, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the spice mix. This will introduce a new layer of flavor without overpowering the garlic and Parmesan base.
- Switch Up the Protein: While chicken is a favorite here, you can substitute it with turkey or even a plant-based protein if you’re looking for a meatless option. Just ensure it cooks through properly.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses. For example, mozzarella can add a stretchy, savory quality, while feta can introduce a tangy twist.
By trying these variations, you can make this dish feel new every time you serve it!
FAQ
What makes The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta so special?
This dish stands out for its rich flavors, creamy texture, and the ease of preparation. The combination of tender chicken and savory Parmesan creates a comforting meal that appeals to nearly everyone.
How long does it take to cook The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Depending on your setting, cooking time can range from 2-3 hours on high or 4-5 hours on low. Allowing the chicken to cook slowly ensures it becomes tender and flavorful.
Can I use frozen chicken in The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just be aware that it may require a bit longer to cook. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked through before shredding.
Is there a vegetarian version of The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to maintain similar flavors.
How do I know when The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is done?
Your dish is ready when the chicken shreds easily with a fork. This usually occurs after about 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high.
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- Crockpot
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 2 cups Chicken Broth
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 1 package Cream Cheese 8 oz, cubed and softened
- 1 tablespoon Minced Garlic
- 12 oz Pasta Penne, rotini, or your favorite
- 0.5 cup Heavy Cream or half-and-half
- Chopped Parsley for garnish Optional
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
- Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
- Pour chicken broth over the seasoned chicken.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top and add cubed cream cheese and minced garlic.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot and stir to combine.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions, then drain and add to the crockpot.
- Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half until well combined.
- Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!