The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is a delicious and simple dish that brings comfort to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines tender chicken with rich garlic Parmesan sauce, creating a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, this dish delivers both flavor and ease, making it an instant favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time, you can set it and forget it while the crockpot does all the work.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a savory sauce that enhances the chicken and pasta beautifully.
• Versatile Dish: Pair it with different pasta shapes or add veggies for a personal twist.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This dish stores well, making it great for meal prep or next-day lunches.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the creamy texture and hearty flavors.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Forks (for shredding chicken)
• Pasta pot

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Perfect for hands-off cooking, allowing flavors to meld together wonderfully while you go about your day.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient quantities for consistent results every time.
• Pasta pot: A large pot makes boiling pasta easy, providing enough space for even cooking.

Ingredients

This crockpot garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is the ultimate comfort food made easy. Tender chicken simmers in a slow cooker with rich Parmesan, cream cheese, garlic, and broth—creating a luscious, savory sauce that clings to every bite of pasta. Finished with a splash of cream and topped with fresh parsley or extra cheese, this recipe is a cozy, satisfying meal your family will ask for on repeat.

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt

For the Sauce:

• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed and softened
• 1 tbsp minced garlic

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite)
• ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half

Garnish:

• Optional: chopped parsley or extra Parmesan for garnish

How to Make The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
2. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 2: Add Sauce Ingredients

1. Pour in the chicken broth.
2. Add the grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Place cubed cream cheese on top along with minced garlic.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Cover your crockpot.
2. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until cooked through.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

1. Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot.
2. Stir everything together until well combined with the sauce.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

1. In a separate pot, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta once cooked.

Step 6: Combine Everything

1. Add cooked pasta to the mixture in the crockpot.
2. Pour in heavy cream or half-and-half.
3. Stir until all ingredients are well coated in creamy sauce.

Step 7: Serve

1. Serve warm.
2. Top with extra Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley if desired.

How to Serve The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is a delightful dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• A warm, crispy garlic bread complements the creamy pasta beautifully and adds a satisfying crunch.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.

Serve with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables bring color and nutrition to your plate while balancing the flavors of the dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkling fresh parsley or basil on top not only enhances the presentation but also adds a burst of flavor.

Offer Extra Cheese

• Providing additional grated Parmesan allows everyone to customize their plate for an extra cheesy experience.

How to Perfect The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

To ensure your crockpot pasta turns out perfectly every time, consider these simple tips.

• Choose quality chicken: Use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed to enhance flavor.
• Cook pasta separately: Cooking pasta al dente ensures it maintains its texture when mixed with the sauce.
• Use low-sodium broth: Opting for low-sodium chicken broth helps control the saltiness of the dish.
• Add veggies for nutrition: Incorporate spinach or broccoli into the mix for added nutrients and color.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Completing your meal with complementary side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing and croutons provides a classic pairing.
2. Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice adds brightness and freshness.
3. Grilled Zucchini – Seasoned grilled zucchini offers a smoky flavor that pairs well with creamy pasta.
4. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side that’s easy to prepare.
5. Roasted Potatoes – Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs add heartiness to your meal.
6. Sautéed Spinach – Quick sautéed spinach with garlic makes for a nutritious and flavorful addition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your cooking experience and ensure the best results when making The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your chicken before cooking can result in bland flavors. Always sprinkle salt, pepper, and other spices generously to enhance taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Leaving the chicken in the crockpot for too long can lead to dry, tough meat. Stick to the recommended cooking times for tender results.
• Not shredding the chicken properly: If you don’t shred the chicken well after cooking, it won’t mix with the sauce effectively. Use two forks to shred thoroughly for a better flavor distribution.
• Choosing the wrong pasta: Using pasta that requires longer cooking times can lead to mushy results. Opt for pasta types like penne or rotini that cook well in a crockpot setting.
• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping fresh herbs or extra cheese as garnish will miss out on an added layer of flavor and presentation. Always finish your dish with a sprinkle of parsley or more Parmesan.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

• Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until warm, stirring between sessions.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, adjust cooking time accordingly; they may need an additional hour on low or 30 minutes on high.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and replace heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk.

What type of pasta works best?

Pasta shapes like penne or rotini hold sauce well and cook evenly in the crockpot. Avoid long pasta types that may become mushy.

Can I add vegetables to The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or broccoli during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition and color.

Final Thoughts

The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite pasta and add-ins like veggies. Give this cozy dish a try—your family will surely love it!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is a creamy, savory dish that combines tender chicken and pasta in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this slow cooker meal requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. Just set it and forget it! This comforting recipe is versatile, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables or switch up the pasta shapes, making it a family favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or preparing leftovers for lunch, this dish promises satisfaction in every bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed
• 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt

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Instructions

1. Place chicken in the crockpot and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour in chicken broth and add Parmesan cheese and cubed cream cheese.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is fully cooked.
4. Shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks; stir to combine with the sauce.
5. Cook pasta separately according to package directions until al dente; drain.
6. Add cooked pasta and heavy cream to the crockpot; stir until well combined.
7. Serve warm with optional garnishes like parsley or extra cheese.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours on low
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 245g)
• Calories: 490
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 110mg