Creamy Garlicky Chicken Pasta
Why Make This Recipe
This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the perfect dish for busy individuals and families. It combines tender chicken with creamy sauce and pasta, making it a satisfying meal without much hassle. The hands-off cooking method allows you to enjoy a delicious dinner with minimal effort, and the rich flavors will please everyone at the table.
How to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken 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
Directions:
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and minced garlic over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Shred the chicken in the crockpot using two forks and stir to combine with the sauce.
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and add the cooked pasta to the crockpot.
- Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half, and stir everything together until the pasta is well coated and creamy.
- Serve warm, topped with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley if desired.
How to Serve Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
You can serve this dish warm straight from the crockpot. It’s delightful on its own, but feel free to pair it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Adding a sprinkle of chopped parsley or extra Parmesan cheese on top will enhance both the flavor and presentation.
How to Store Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce if it thickens.
Tips to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Don’t skip the cream cheese, as it adds a wonderful creaminess to the sauce.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- You can add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes in the last hour of cooking for more color and nutrition.
- If you like a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes when seasoning the chicken.
Variation
For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or store-bought Italian dressing. You can also use a mix of different cheeses for a unique flavor, like mozzarella or cheddar.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours, and ensure the chicken reaches a safe temperature.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free, and check that your chicken broth is gluten-free too.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes! You can prep everything in the crockpot the night before, refrigerate it, and start cooking in the morning. Just remember to turn it on when you’re ready!
Print
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 315 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free pasta)
Description
A hands-off, creamy pasta dish combining tender chicken with rich flavors, perfect for busy families.
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 chicken breasts in the crockpot. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and minced garlic over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Shred the chicken in the crockpot using two forks and stir to combine with the sauce.
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and add the cooked pasta to the crockpot.
- Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half, and stir everything together until the pasta is well coated and creamy.
- Serve warm, topped with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 300 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: Crockpot, Chicken, Pasta, Garlic, Parmesan, Easy Dinner