This recipe features The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe, a dish that perfectly blends convenience with delightful flavors. It’s a splendid choice for family dinners, potlucks, or busy weeknights. The slow cooker does all the hard work while you enjoy the rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe makes satisfying meals easier than ever.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: Just place the ingredients in your crockpot and let it work its magic while you go about your day.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and cream creates a luscious sauce that elevates every bite.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or feeding a crowd at a party.
- Customizable Ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite pasta shapes or add vegetables to suit your taste.
- Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and savory flavors make this dish a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
To make The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe, you’ll need some essential tools that ensure everything runs smoothly in the kitchen.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Crockpot
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Mixing spoon
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Crockpot: This is the star of the show! It cooks the chicken slowly, allowing flavors to develop beautifully.
- Measuring cups: Ensure accurate portions for consistent results every time you make this delicious pasta.
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 and Sauce
- 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
For the Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite)
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Optional: chopped parsley or extra Parmesan for garnish
How to Make The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Add Saucy Goodness
- Pour in the chicken broth.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese, cubed cream cheese, and minced garlic over the seasoned chicken.
Step 3: Cook to Perfection
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
- Use two forks to shred the chicken right in the crockpot.
- Stir everything together to combine with the flavorful sauce.
Step 5: Cook Your Pasta
- In a separate pot, cook pasta according to package directions.
- Drain once cooked and add it to the crockpot with shredded chicken.
Step 6: Final Touches
- Pour in heavy cream or half-and-half.
- Stir until everything is well coated in creamy goodness.
Step 7: Serve Warm
Serve warm topped with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley if desired for an added touch of flavor!
How to Serve The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
This creamy and flavorful crockpot garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
With Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese drizzled with a tangy Caesar dressing.
- Greek Salad – A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese topped with olive oil and oregano.
- Garden Salad – A light blend of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing for a fresh crunch.
As a Family Meal
- Serve in Bowls – Ladle the pasta into deep bowls for an inviting presentation that everyone will enjoy.
- Garnish Generously – Top each serving with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley for added flavor and color.
With Garlic Bread
- Classic Garlic Bread – Toasted bread slices slathered with garlic butter make the perfect side to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks – Soft breadsticks loaded with melted cheese and garlic are great for dipping into the pasta.
For Special Occasions
- Wine Pairings – A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, complements the creamy flavors beautifully.
- Themed Dinner Night – Create an Italian-themed dinner by adding antipasto platters or desserts like tiramisu or panna cotta.
How to Perfect The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
To make this recipe even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan can elevate the flavor of your dish significantly.
- Adjust Seasoning – Taste the sauce before serving; you can add more salt or pepper according to your preference.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente – To prevent mushy pasta, cook it slightly less than package instructions before adding it to the crockpot.
- Experiment with Add-ins – Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your crockpot garlic Parmesan chicken pasta can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options:
- Garlic Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds color and health benefits.
- Steamed Broccoli – Simple steamed broccoli provides a vibrant green contrast and balances out the richness of the pasta.
- Caprese Skewers – Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil on skewers offer a fresh taste that complements the dish well.
- Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, and balsamic glaze makes a tasty appetizer.
- Risotto Cakes – Creamy risotto formed into cakes adds texture and pairs beautifully with the pasta’s creaminess.
- Zucchini Noodles – Lighten up your meal by serving zucchini noodles alongside your pasta for a healthy twist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe, it’s easy to overlook a few details. Here are some common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.
Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can result in bland flavors. Make sure to use garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper generously.
Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Stick to the recommended cooking times of 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high.
Using low-quality pasta: Cheap pasta can become mushy when cooked. Opt for good quality pasta that holds its shape well in the dish.
Not shredding the chicken: Leaving the chicken whole means less flavor absorption. Shred it in the crockpot to mix thoroughly with the creamy sauce.
Forgetting about garnishes: Skipping toppings like parsley or extra Parmesan can make your dish less appealing. Always add these for a burst of flavor and color.
Rushing the reheating process: Reheating too quickly can dry out leftovers. Take your time and use gentle heat for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container.
- Keep it frozen 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). Cover with foil and bake until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe that might help you out.
How do I ensure my chicken is tender?
Cooking on low for 4-5 hours allows the chicken to become tender and flavorful.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; just increase the cooking time by an hour or so.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half works well as a lighter option if you want fewer calories but still creamy texture.
Is this recipe customizable?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Final Thoughts
The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Its creamy texture and rich flavors are perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices, making this dish versatile enough for any occasion. Give it a try, and enjoy a comforting meal that will become a favorite!
The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Discover the ultimate comfort food with The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe. This delightful dish combines tender chicken, rich garlic, and creamy Parmesan in a slow cooker, making meal preparation effortless. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or potlucks, this pasta recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying meal that’s flavorful and comforting. Elevate your dining experience with this easy-to-make dish that will have your family requesting seconds!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- ½ cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the crockpot and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour in chicken broth and add Parmesan cheese, cubed cream cheese, and minced garlic over the chicken.
- Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Shred the chicken in the crockpot and stir everything to combine.
- Cook pasta separately according to package directions; drain.
- Add cooked pasta to the crockpot along with heavy cream; stir until well mixed.
- Serve warm topped with additional Parmesan or chopped parsley.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
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