Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Why Make This Recipe
This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is perfect for busy weeknights. It combines the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese with tender chicken and creamy pasta, all made in one pot. The slow cooking process ensures the chicken becomes juicy and full of flavor while the pasta absorbs the delicious sauce. Plus, this dish is easy to prepare and requires minimal effort, making it a go-to family favorite!
How to Make The Best 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 the 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 heavy cream or half-and-half, 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 The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Serve this dish warm, directly from the crockpot. You can garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added flavor and presentation. This meal is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can also pair it with a simple green salad or some garlic bread for a complete dinner experience.
How to Store The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It should stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore its creamy texture.
Tips to Make The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Ensure the chicken is fully submerged in the broth for the best flavor.
- For a thicker sauce, you can use less chicken broth.
- If you want to add more veggies, consider throwing in spinach or broccoli during the last hour of cooking.
- Experiment with different types of pasta or cheese based on your family’s preferences!
Variation
Feel free to customize this recipe! You can swap the chicken for turkey or cook it with shrimp for a seafood twist. Additionally, using different kinds of cheese, like mozzarella or cheddar, can change the flavor profile to suit your taste.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe. Just add an extra hour to the cooking time for the chicken to cook thoroughly.
What type of pasta works best with this dish?
You can use any type of pasta you like! Penne, rotini, and fettuccine are all great options, but feel free to try your favorites.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, just cook the pasta, mix everything together, and enjoy!
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 315 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish made with garlic, Parmesan, and tender chicken, all cooked in a slow cooker for an easy weeknight meal.
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 the 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 heavy cream or half-and-half, stir everything together until the pasta is well coated and creamy.
- Serve warm, topped with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
For best flavor, ensure the chicken is fully submerged in the broth. Add veggies like spinach or broccoli during the last hour for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 300 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: crockpot, chicken pasta, garlic parmesan, easy dinner, slow cooker
