Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful, and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, garlic-infused cream sauce, and al dente pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe is easy to prepare and delivers restaurant-quality taste in the comfort of your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a set-it-and-forget-it meal thanks to the crockpot.
• Rich, creamy, and loaded with garlic parmesan flavor.
• Perfectly customizable with your favorite pasta or vegetables.
• Ideal for meal prepping and reheating.
• Family-approved and kid-friendly!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Cream cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Minced garlic
• Chicken broth
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Pasta (such as penne or fettuccine)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Place chicken breasts in the crockpot.
2. Add cream cheese, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
4. Shred the chicken directly in the crockpot or transfer it to a cutting board to shred before returning it to the sauce.
5. While the chicken cooks, prepare the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Mix the shredded chicken and sauce thoroughly. Add the cooked pasta to the crockpot and toss to combine.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high

Variations

• Vegetable Add-Ins: Add spinach, broccoli, or peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra nutrition.
• Protein Swap: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or even shrimp for a different protein option.
• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or zoodles as a substitute.
• Cheese Upgrade: Add shredded mozzarella or a sprinkle of asiago cheese for more cheesy goodness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
• Freezing: Freeze the chicken and sauce (without pasta) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating and adding freshly cooked pasta.

FAQs

How long does it take to cook this in the crockpot?

It takes 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high, depending on your schedule.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but ensure the chicken cooks thoroughly and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

What pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni are excellent choices, but any pasta you love will work.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and add freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Substitute dairy-free cream cheese and Parmesan alternatives to make it dairy-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure your crockpot is large enough to handle the increased volume.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, add shredded rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken during the last hour of cooking to warm it through.

What’s the best way to shred chicken?

Use two forks, a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, or shred it directly in the crockpot with tongs.

Can I use other cheeses?

Mozzarella, asiago, or gouda can be used to add variety to the cheese flavor.

What can I serve with this dish?

Serve with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to round out the meal.

Conclusion

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a hearty and satisfying meal that’s as easy as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a comforting dish, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With simple ingredients, rich flavors, and endless customization options, this dish will quickly become a staple in your weekly meal rotation.

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