The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy days. Using a slow cooker, this recipe allows for tender chicken and creamy pasta with minimal effort. Simply gather your ingredients, let the crockpot do the work, and enjoy a warm meal that the whole family will love. With the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan, each bite is a delicious treat.
4 Reasons Why You’ll Love It
- Effortless Meal Preparation
- Creamy and Delicious Flavor
- Family-Friendly Recipe
- Perfect for Busy Nights
Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
- Total Time: 4-5 hours and 10 minutes
Ingredients List
- 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
How to make Step-by-Step
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 Ingredients
Add the chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and minced garlic over the chicken.
Step 3: Cook 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.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Shred the chicken in the crockpot using two forks and stir to combine with the sauce.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and add the cooked pasta to the crockpot.
Step 6: Add Cream
Pour in heavy cream or half-and-half, stir everything together until pasta is well coated and creamy.
Step 7: Serve
Serve warm, topped with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It also goes well with garlic bread or crusty rolls.
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze portions for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary.
- Avoid freezing with pasta mixed in to maintain consistency.
Tips for Success
- Make sure to use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- Let the chicken sit in the spices for a few minutes before cooking for deeper flavor.
- For extra creaminess, add more heavy cream.
- Adjust seasonings to taste before serving.
Variations to Try
- Substitute the chicken with turkey for a lighter version.
- Add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition.
- Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but increase the cooking time by an hour.
2. What pasta works best?
Penne and rotini are great choices that hold the sauce well.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute cream cheese and Parmesan with dairy-free alternatives.
4. How can I make this spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
Closing Notes: This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not only easy to make but also delivers on flavor and comfort. It is an ideal dish for busy families looking for a quick dinner solution. You can customize it to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs, making it a go-to recipe for any weeknight meal. Give it a try, and savor the deliciousness that simmers away as you go about your day!
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite)
- 0.5 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Optional: chopped parsley or extra Parmesan for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- 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 heavy cream or half-and-half, stir everything together until pasta is well coated and creamy.
- Serve warm, topped with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley if desired.
