Crockpot meals offer a wonderful way to enjoy flavorful dishes without spending too much time in the kitchen. One dish that stands out is the Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. This recipe combines succulent chicken with creamy, garlicky goodness, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. The best part? It cooks in a crockpot, making it perfect for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without the fuss. As the chicken cooks slowly, it becomes tender and infused with rich flavors, making every bite delightfully creamy and cheesy.
Why Make This Recipe
There are several reasons to love the Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Firstly, it is incredibly easy to prepare. You simply add all the ingredients into the crockpot, set the timer, and let it do the work for you. This frees up your time for other activities, whether it’s helping the kids with homework or simply relaxing after a long day.
Moreover, this recipe is family-friendly. Kids and adults alike will adore the rich taste and creamy texture. Pasta is a staple in many households, and combining it with chicken, garlic, and Parmesan cheese creates a hearty meal that satisfies everyone’s tastes.
Another advantage is that it is very versatile. You can easily substitute different types of pasta or add vegetables according to your preference. If you have leftover chicken or cream cheese, this recipe is a wonderful way to use them up.
Finally, making dinner in the crockpot can help save energy compared to the stove or oven, making it an environmentally friendly choice. The slow cooking method also lets the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that is far more enjoyable than many fast-cooked meals.
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Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free (with adjustments)
Description
A delicious and easy-to-make crockpot dish featuring tender chicken in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce over pasta.
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
Instructions
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken.
- Pour the chicken broth over the chicken, then add the grated Parmesan cheese, cubed cream cheese, and minced garlic.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
- Shred the chicken in the crockpot using two forks and stir into the sauce.
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions, then drain and add to the crockpot.
- Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half and stir until well combined.
- Serve warm, topped with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers in the last hour of cooking for added nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
How to Make The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Making this delicious meal is simple and does not require special cooking skills. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about the ingredients and directions to whip up this delightful dish.
Ingredients
To prepare the Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, you will need 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
With these ingredients in hand, you are ready to create a delicious meal that will surely impress your family.
Directions
Now that you have your ingredients, follow these easy steps to prepare the dish:
Prepare the Chicken: Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. This will be the base of your dish.
Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
Add the Liquids and Cheese: Pour the chicken broth over the chicken. Then, add the grated Parmesan cheese, cubed cream cheese, and minced garlic. These ingredients will create a rich, creamy sauce that perfectly coats the pasta later.
Set the Crockpot: Cover the crockpot with its lid. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Shred the Chicken: Once the cooking time is complete, shred the chicken in the crockpot using two forks. Stir the shredded chicken into the sauce to combine all the flavors.
Cook the Pasta: In a separate pot, cook the pasta according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and add it to the crockpot.
Add Creaminess: Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Stir everything together until the pasta is well coated and creamy.
Serve the Dish: Serve the Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta warm, topped with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley if desired. This adds a nice touch for presentation.
How to Serve The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Serving this dish is quite straightforward. Gather everyone around the dining table and serve the creamy pasta in bowls. You can use a large spoon or tongs to help people take as much as they like. For added flavor and decoration, sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan cheese on top, and add a dash of freshly chopped parsley if you desire a pop of color and freshness.
This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread. A crisp green salad will balance the creaminess of the pasta, while garlic bread will complement the flavors beautifully. Encourage everyone to enjoy their meal, savoring the delicious garlic and cheese notes.
How to Store The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
If you happen to have leftovers, storing them properly is essential. Here’s how to keep your dish fresh:
- Cool Down: Allow the pasta to cool down to room temperature.
- Use Airtight Containers: Transfer leftovers into airtight containers. Make sure to separate portions if needed.
- Refrigerate: Store the containers in the refrigerator, where they can last for about 3-4 days.
When you are ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the pasta appears dry, you can add a little extra cream or chicken broth to revive the creaminess.
Tips to Make The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
To enhance your cooking experience and achieve the best results, here are some helpful tips:
Chicken Variations: You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for an even juicier result. Just make sure the thighs are also boneless and skinless for the best texture.
Add Vegetables: Feel free to include vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers. Add them in the last hour of cooking to ensure they stay vibrant and fresh.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic enhances the flavor more than garlic powder. Consider using it for an even more robust taste.
Check for Doneness: Cooking times may vary based on your crockpot model. Always check to ensure the chicken is fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
Try Different Pasta: While penne and rotini are excellent choices, other types of pasta can be used, such as fusilli or farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Variation
If you want to change things up, consider making a spicy version by adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce. For a more wholesome version, swap out half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or utilize whole grain pasta for added nutrients.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, the Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta can be frozen. Just ensure it cools completely before sealing it in a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce a day before. Assemble the ingredients in the crockpot, cover it, and refrigerate. The next day, simply place it in the crockpot, add your desired cooking time, and let it cook.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make the recipe gluten-free, you can use gluten-free pasta and ensure that the chicken broth is also gluten-free. Be sure to check labels for any other ingredients you may choose to add or serve alongside.
The Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a winner for any occasion—easy to make, delicious, and perfect for families! Enjoy making this dish, and don’t forget to get creative with it!