The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
This is the ultimate comfort food you’ve been looking for! The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe combines tender chicken with creamy Parmesan and garlic in a slow cooker, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish will quickly become a staple in your home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: Simply toss the ingredients in the crockpot, set it, and let it do its magic.
- Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and Parmesan creates a luscious sauce everyone loves.
- Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the spices or add vegetables to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekday meal or a gathering, this recipe fits right in.
- Leftover Friendly: Enjoy the deliciousness for days; it reheats well without losing flavor.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make this process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Crockpot
- Measuring spoons
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Crockpot: This is the star of the show! It allows for hands-off cooking while infusing flavors over time.
- Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistent flavor in every batch of pasta.
- Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping ingredients easy and safe.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
Main 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
How to Make The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
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 Broth and Cheese
- Pour the chicken broth over the seasoned chicken.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese, cubed cream cheese, and minced garlic on top.
Step 3: Cook Until Tender
- Cover the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
- Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks.
- Stir to combine shredded chicken with the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Cook Pasta Separately
- In a separate pot, cook pasta according to package directions.
- Drain once al dente.
Step 6: Combine Everything
- Add drained pasta to the crockpot with shredded chicken.
- Pour in heavy cream or half-and-half and stir until well combined.
Step 7: Serve Your Dish
- Serve warm and garnish with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley if desired.
Enjoy this comforting meal that’s bound to satisfy every palate!
How to Serve The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Serving this dish is simple and delightful. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, the best crockpot garlic Parmesan chicken pasta can be enjoyed in various ways that enhance your dining experience.
Family Style
- Serve the pasta in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for family gatherings.
Individual Plates
- Plate individual servings with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra cheese on top. It makes for a beautiful presentation that impresses guests.
With Garlic Bread
- Pair with crispy garlic bread on the side. The crunch of the bread complements the creamy pasta beautifully, making every bite a delight.
With a Side Salad
- Serve with a crisp green salad. A light vinaigrette adds freshness that balances the richness of the dish.
As Leftovers
- Store any leftovers in the fridge. Reheat for an easy lunch or dinner option; it tastes just as good!
How to Perfect The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Perfecting this recipe ensures you get the most flavor and creaminess out of your ingredients. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a more robust flavor.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference before serving.
- Pasta Choices: Experiment with different types of pasta like farfalle or fusilli for varied textures.
- Add Vegetables: Toss in some spinach or broccoli during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition and color.
- Cream Consistency: Adjust the amount of heavy cream based on how creamy you want your dish. Start with less if you’re unsure.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on parsley or cheese as garnishes—they really enhance both flavor and presentation.
Best Side Dishes for The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
To complement this hearty meal, consider serving it alongside these delicious side dishes:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy slices slathered in butter and garlic are perfect for dipping into the sauce.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crisp greens and tangy dressing that pairs well with creamy pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal veggies roasted to perfection provide texture and balance to your meal.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli is nutritious and adds a pop of color to your plate.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer refreshing contrast.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a tangy crunch that cuts through the richness of the pasta.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate after this rich dish, providing sweetness without heaviness.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms make an elegant appetizer or side that complements the main course beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your experience with The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can result in bland flavors. Always sprinkle salt, pepper, and spices generously.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta separately is crucial. If added to the crockpot too early, it can become mushy. Follow package instructions for perfect texture.
- Neglecting to shred chicken: Leaving the chicken whole will prevent it from absorbing the sauce fully. Shred it in the crockpot for maximum flavor infusion.
- Using cold ingredients: Adding cold cream cheese or broth can slow down cooking. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth sauce.
- Not adjusting consistency: If the sauce is too thick, you might need to add more broth or cream. Always taste and adjust before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
- Stovetop: In a saucepan over medium heat, stir occasionally until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe special?
This recipe combines tender chicken with a rich garlic Parmesan sauce that clings perfectly to pasta, making every bite deliciously satisfying.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes! You can start with frozen chicken breasts; just extend the cooking time by an hour or so on low.
What type of pasta works best with this recipe?
Penne and rotini are great choices as they hold onto the sauce well. However, you can use your favorite pasta shape!
How do I customize The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or broccoli during the last hour of cooking for extra nutrition and flavor.
Final Thoughts
The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is not just easy but also incredibly comforting. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s a dish that everyone will love. You can easily customize it with different veggies or cheese options to suit your family’s taste. Try it tonight for a cozy meal that will become a staple in your home!
The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is the ultimate cozy comfort food that combines tender chicken, creamy Parmesan, and rich garlic flavors—all prepared effortlessly in a slow cooker. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish requires minimal prep time and delivers maximum satisfaction. With its luscious sauce and customizable ingredients, it promises to become a go-to favorite in your household. Enjoy it with garlic bread or a fresh salad for an unforgettable meal that pleases everyone!
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
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the crockpot and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour chicken broth over the seasoned chicken and top with grated Parmesan cheese, cubed cream cheese, and minced garlic.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until chicken is tender.
- Shred the chicken in the crockpot using two forks and stir to mix with the creamy sauce.
- Cook pasta separately according to package directions; drain when al dente.
- Add drained pasta to the crockpot along with heavy cream or half-and-half; stir until well combined.
- Serve warm with optional garnishes like extra Parmesan or chopped parsley.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours on low (or 2 hours on high)
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
