The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious, comforting meal that practically cooks itself, you’ve come to the right place! The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is one of those magical dishes that fills your home with enticing aromas and warms your heart. It’s creamy, savory, and utterly satisfying—perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

This recipe is not just about flavor; it’s about ease and convenience. Toss everything into the crockpot, let it work its magic, and before you know it, you’ll have a delightful pasta dish ready to enjoy. Gather your loved ones around the table because they’re going to love this!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With just a few minutes of prep time, you can set this dish up in your slow cooker and go about your day!
• Family-Friendly Flavor: Everyone loves creamy pasta! This recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal planning! Prep in advance and let the flavors meld while you tackle your day.
• Rich & Comforting Sauce: The garlic Parmesan sauce is rich and smooth, coating every bite of tender chicken and pasta beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this lovely dish doesn’t require fancy ingredients—just simple, wholesome items that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1.5-2 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
• 1 (8 oz) block Cream Cheese, softened
• 1.5 cups Chicken Broth, low-sodium
• 6-8 cloves Fresh Garlic, minced
• 1 cup Parmesan Cheese, freshly grated (plus more for serving)
• 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
• 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning
• 1 tsp Onion Powder
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp Salt (to taste)
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (to taste)
• 16 oz (1 lb) Your Favorite Pasta (Penne, Rotini, or Fettuccine)
• 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: 1 tbsp Cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water (for slurry)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily tweak it to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Use boneless skinless turkey breasts or even chicken thighs for a different flavor profile.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or broccoli during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Change the cheese: Try using mozzarella or a blend of cheeses for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like a little kick in your pasta!

How to Make The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat chicken breasts dry and place them in your slow cooker. This step ensures that they sear nicely when cooking, locking in moisture and flavor.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasoning

Mince fresh garlic and sprinkle it over the chicken. Then, mix together Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This blend will infuse our dish with wonderful flavors as it cooks.

Step 3: Build the Base

Pour low-sodium chicken broth over the seasoned chicken and top it with the block of softened cream cheese. The cream cheese will melt into a deliciously creamy sauce as it cooks!

Step 4: Slow Cook Until Tender

Cover your slow cooker and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or HIGH for 1.5-2.5 hours until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F/74°C. The longer cooking time allows all those flavors to meld perfectly.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Using two forks, shred the cooked chicken right in the slow cooker. Stir well to combine it with that luscious melted cream cheese and cooking liquid—this is where all the magic happens!

Step 6: Add Creaminess

Stir in heavy cream along with one cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until everything is smooth and well combined. This is what makes our sauce delightfully creamy!

Step 7: Thicken if Desired

If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk together cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Add this mixture to the slow cooker while stirring constantly; within minutes you’ll see that sauce thicken beautifully.

Step 8: Adjust Seasonings

Give your sauce a taste! Adjust any seasonings as needed so it’s just perfect for you.

Step 9: Cook Your Pasta

Just before serving, cook your favorite pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well but don’t rinse; we want all that delicious starch!

Step 10: Combine Everything

Transfer hot drained pasta directly into the slow cooker with that creamy garlic Parmesan chicken and sauce. Gently fold everything together so every piece of pasta gets coated.

Step 11: Garnish & Serve

Finally, stir in freshly chopped parsley just before serving! Dish out generous portions into bowls topped with extra Parmesan if desired—then dig in!

Enjoy this comforting meal that brings everyone together around the table!

Pro Tips for Making The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Creating the perfect creamy pasta dish can be simple with a few helpful tips! Here are some suggestions to elevate your cooking experience:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese make a significant difference in flavor. They enhance the overall taste of the dish, making it more vibrant and delicious.

• Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Proper seasoning is key to bringing out flavors. Make sure to thoroughly season both the chicken and sauce; this ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.

• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, don’t hesitate to use the cornstarch slurry option. This will give your dish a creamy texture that clings beautifully to the pasta.

• Customize Your Pasta Choice: Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta! Each shape holds sauce differently, giving you a unique eating experience each time.

• Make Ahead for Convenience: This recipe is great for meal prep! You can cook it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for later use—just reheat before serving.

How to Serve The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Presentation can enhance your dining experience, so let’s explore some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds color but also provides a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
• Extra Parmesan Cheese: Grating extra Parmesan on top just before serving offers an indulgent finishing touch that cheese lovers will appreciate.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic accompaniment, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce and adds a crunchy texture contrast.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add a nutritious balance and bright colors to your meal. Their freshness complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds crunch and a tangy dressing that contrasts nicely with the richness of the chicken pasta.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasting these little gems brings out their natural sweetness, providing an earthy side that pairs well with the savory flavors of your main dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your family or guests with The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious and comforting meals throughout the week without spending hours in the kitchen. You can easily store leftovers and even freeze portions for later use!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover garlic Parmesan chicken pasta in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• To keep the pasta from becoming too soft, consider storing the sauce separately if you have a lot of leftovers.

Freezing

• Allow the chicken pasta to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Warm in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
• You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this delicious dish, here are some common questions people often ask!

Can I make The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe with frozen chicken?

Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts; just increase the cooking time by about 1-2 hours on low, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

How do I adjust The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for dietary preferences?

You can easily modify this recipe by using low-fat cream cheese or heavy cream alternatives like coconut milk. Additionally, swap out gluten-containing pasta for your favorite gluten-free option.

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

Yes! Feel free to toss in some fresh or frozen vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers during the last hour of cooking for extra flavor and nutrition.

What should I serve with The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe?

This dish is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread. Enjoy it with some steamed veggies for a well-rounded meal!

Final Thoughts

I genuinely hope you find joy in making The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe as much as I do! It’s not just about the creamy sauce and tender chicken; it’s about creating warm moments around the dinner table with family and friends. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience! Happy cooking!

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