This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without much fuss. With tender chicken, creamy sauces, and pasta all cooked to perfection in one pot, this dish is sure to please the whole family. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe shines with its rich flavors and easy preparation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work for you!
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and Alfredo sauce makes every bite irresistible.
- One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.
- Family Favorite: A hit with both kids and adults alike, making dinner time stress-free.
- Versatile Dish: Customize it with different vegetables or pasta types as per your preference.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make cooking this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta even easier. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: This is essential for slow-cooking your chicken to tender perfection while infusing it with flavor.
- Large pot: Necessary for boiling pasta; ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
Ingredients
This crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta is an easy weeknight dinner recipe the family loves!
Protein
- 1 lb chicken breast
Seasonings
- 1/2 tsp each of salt and pepper
- 1 tsp each of paprika, onion powder, and Italian seasoning
- 1 TBSP minced garlic
Sauces
- BWW Garlic Parmesan sauce
- 1 jar of Alfredo sauce
Pasta
- 1 16 oz box of pasta
Cheese
- 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella
How to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Add the chicken breast to your slow cooker.
- Sprinkle salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and Italian seasoning over the chicken.
Step 2: Add Flavors
- Add minced garlic on top of the chicken.
- Pour enough BWW Garlic Parmesan sauce to fully cover the chicken.
Step 3: Cook in Slow Cooker
- Set your slow cooker to low heat.
- Cook for 4-6 hours until the chicken is tender.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
- Once cooked, shred or chop up the chicken using two forks or a knife.
Step 5: Boil Pasta
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Cook your favorite pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
- In the slow cooker with shredded chicken, add Alfredo sauce, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese.
Step 7: Mix Well
- Stir everything together well until all ingredients are combined and coated in sauce.
Step 8: Add Pasta
- Gently fold in the cooked pasta into the slow cooker mixture.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!
- Spoon out portions onto plates and enjoy this delicious Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta!
How to Serve Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta is not just a delicious main dish; it can also be served in several delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.
With Fresh Herbs
- Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
- Chives: Finely chopped chives can add a mild onion flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
On a Bed of Greens
- Mixed Greens: Serve the pasta over mixed greens for added texture and freshness.
- Spinach: Wilted spinach underneath the pasta adds nutrition and a vibrant green color.
As a Comfort Food Bowl
- Add Extra Sauces: Serve with extra garlic parmesan sauce drizzled on top for a richer taste.
- Top with Additional Cheese: Sprinkle more mozzarella or parmesan cheese before serving, then broil briefly to melt.
With Crunchy Toppings
- Crushed Croutons: Add a layer of crunchy croutons on top for texture contrast.
- Toasted Breadcrumbs: Toasted breadcrumbs can bring a delightful crunch and add an additional layer of flavor.
How to Perfect Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
To achieve the best results with your crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta, consider these helpful tips.
- seasoning: Don’t be shy with your spices! Properly seasoning both the chicken and the sauce enhances the overall flavor.
- Choose the right pasta: Use pasta types that hold onto sauce well, such as penne or rotini, for maximum taste in every bite.
- Cook low and slow: For tender chicken that shreds easily, always cook on low heat for the recommended time.
- Add veggies: Consider adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition and flavor complexity.
Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Pairing side dishes with your crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.
- Garlic Bread: A classic side that pairs perfectly, offering an extra garlicky kick.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine tossed with Caesar dressing provides a refreshing balance to the creamy pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender add color and earthy flavors to your plate.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds crunch and vibrant color, making for a healthier option.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze complement the rich flavors of the pasta.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a nice contrast to the creamy textures of the main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Preparing Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta can be a breeze, but there are common mistakes that could affect the dish’s outcome. Here are some tips to ensure your meal turns out perfectly.
- Overcooking the chicken: Slow cooking for too long can dry out the chicken. Stick to 4-6 hours on low for tender results.
- Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoning can make your dish bland. Ensure you measure the salt, pepper, and spices accurately for maximum flavor.
- Using the wrong pasta: Some pastas absorb more sauce than others. Choose a pasta that holds up well in sauces, such as penne or fusilli.
- Skipping the cheese: Cheese adds richness and creaminess. Don’t omit Parmesan or mozzarella; they are key to achieving that irresistible flavor.
- Not stirring enough: Failing to mix ingredients thoroughly can lead to uneven flavor distribution. Stir well after adding sauces and pasta.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It can last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Cover with foil and heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pan, adding a splash of water or milk if needed to loosen it up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta that may help you while preparing this delicious dish.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time slightly, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
What other cheeses can I add?
You can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a unique twist on this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta.
How do I make it spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or jalapeños when mixing in the sauces.
Can I use whole grain pasta?
Absolutely! Whole grain pasta works well and adds extra fiber to your meal while maintaining great taste.
What should I serve with this dish?
A fresh salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, making it a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Give it a try; your family will love it!
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a deliciously creamy and comforting dish that comes together effortlessly in your slow cooker. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pot meal features tender chicken simmered in garlic parmesan sauce and combined with your favorite pasta. The rich flavors will have your family asking for seconds, while the minimal cleanup means more time for you to relax after dinner. With its versatility, you can easily adapt this recipe by adding seasonal vegetables or switching up the pasta type. Enjoy a satisfying meal that delivers on taste without the hassle!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 TBSP minced garlic
- BWW Garlic Parmesan sauce (to cover chicken)
- 1 jar Alfredo sauce
- 16 oz pasta of choice
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
Instructions
- Place chicken breast in the slow cooker and season with salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and garlic.
- Pour enough BWW Garlic Parmesan sauce to cover the chicken.
- Cook on low heat for 4-6 hours until chicken is tender.
- Shred the chicken using two forks.
- Boil pasta according to package directions; drain well.
- Add Alfredo sauce, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella to the shredded chicken and mix well.
- Gently fold in cooked pasta until fully combined.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 530
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
