Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines convenience and flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this recipe allows you to enjoy a creamy pasta meal with minimal effort. The savory garlic parmesan sauce envelops tender chicken and pasta, making it a standout choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple ingredients, you can set it and forget it while the crockpot does the work.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce and cream cheese creates a luscious, creamy sauce that your family will crave.
- Versatile Meal: This dish is perfect for any night of the week, whether it’s a busy Monday or a weekend gathering.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its comforting flavors, this pasta dish is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and reheat for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Crockpot or slow cooker
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Crockpot or slow cooker: This tool simplifies cooking by allowing you to prepare meals with minimal attention.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results every time you make this delicious pasta dish.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients, making prep quick and easy.
Ingredients
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta requires just a handful of ingredients for a rich and creamy flavor.
Main Ingredients
- 1 (12 oz) bottle Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce
- 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (trimmed)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 1 cup milk
- 8 oz cream cheese (cut into cubes)
- ¼ cup grated or shredded parmesan cheese
- 12 to 16 oz pasta, such as rotini or penne (cooked to package directions)
How to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season chicken with kosher salt and fresh pepper.
- Place in the bottom of a crockpot or slow cooker.
Step 2: Add the Sauce
- Pour the entire bottle of parmesan garlic sauce over the chicken.
- Add milk to the empty bottle, shake it well, and then pour this mixture over the chicken.
Step 3: Incorporate Creamy Ingredients
- Add cream cheese and parmesan cheese to the crockpot.
- Stir gently to combine all ingredients and ensure chicken is well coated with sauce.
Step 4: Cook in the Crockpot
- Cover and cook on high for 2 to 3 hours or low for 3 to 4 hours until chicken is cooked through.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
- Remove cooked chicken from the crockpot onto a plate or cutting board.
- Shred using two forks or cut into bite-sized pieces, then return it back into the slow cooker.
Step 6: Prepare Pasta
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain well and add cooked pasta to crockpot, stirring gently to combine everything thoroughly.
Enjoy your delicious Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta!
How to Serve Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Serving Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is simple and delightful. This creamy dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes, making it a versatile choice for any dinner table.
Add Fresh Vegetables
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and a nutritious crunch to your meal.
- Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed with garlic complement the rich flavors of the pasta.
Include a Salad
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with romaine, croutons, and parmesan balances the creamy pasta.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley: Sprinkling fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness on top of the pasta.
- Basil Leaves: Fresh basil enhances flavor while giving an aromatic touch to each serving.
Serve with Bread
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate.
- Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks can be enjoyed alongside the pasta for a comforting meal experience.
How to Perfect Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
To achieve the best results with your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality parmesan cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Don’t Skip Seasoning: Adding salt and pepper enhances the overall taste of the dish; adjust according to your preference.
- Cook Thoroughly: Ensure chicken is fully cooked; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
- Stir Regularly: If possible, stir occasionally during cooking to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of milk or add more cream cheese.
- Reserve Some Sauce: Keep some sauce aside before mixing in the pasta to maintain its creaminess when serving.
Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Pairing side dishes with your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta elevates your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer a comforting side that complements the pasta well.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy sprouts provide a delicious roasted flavor that contrasts nicely with the creamy dish.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful crunch and is perfect for summer barbecues or casual dinners.
- Coleslaw: A fresh coleslaw can bring a crunchy texture that balances the richness of the pasta.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad dressed in vinaigrette offers freshness and cuts through the heaviness.
- Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): For a low-carb option, serve zoodles alongside your pasta for added veggies without extra calories.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to stumble upon a few common mistakes. Here are some to watch out for:
- Overcooking the chicken: This can lead to dry, tough meat. Ensure you follow the cooking times closely, checking for doneness.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken well can result in bland flavors. Always season your chicken with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Using low-quality sauce: The sauce is key to this dish’s flavor. Opt for a high-quality Parmesan garlic sauce for the best results.
- Not shredding the chicken properly: If you don’t shred or cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, it may not mix well with the pasta. Use two forks to shred thoroughly.
- Neglecting to stir the pasta in: Failing to mix the cooked pasta with the sauce can lead to uneven flavor distribution. Stir well before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Portion it out if you want easy meal prep options later.
Reheating Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between each until warm.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; just increase cooking time by about an hour.
What type of pasta works best with Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Rotini or penne pasta are ideal choices due to their ability to hold onto sauce well.
How do I make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta gluten-free?
Simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and ensure your sauce is gluten-free as well.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! You can add spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor.
How do I store leftovers of Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful meal that combines comfort and ease. This dish is versatile enough for any weeknight dinner and allows room for customization—add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices according to your taste. Give it a try; your family will love it!
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish that transforms busy weeknights into delightful dining experiences. This easy-to-make recipe features tender chicken simmered in a rich garlic parmesan sauce, enveloping perfectly cooked pasta for a meal that your family will adore. Simply set it and forget it in your slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully while you go about your day. Whether you’re preparing for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish delivers on taste and convenience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 (12 oz) bottle Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce
- 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 1 cup milk
- 8 oz cream cheese
- ¼ cup grated or shredded parmesan cheese
- 12 to 16 oz rotini or penne pasta
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt and pepper; place in the crockpot.
- Pour the garlic sauce over the chicken. Add milk, shake the empty bottle, and pour over the mixture.
- Add cream cheese and parmesan cheese; stir gently.
- Cover and cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 3-4 hours until chicken is cooked through.
- Shred the chicken and return it to the crockpot.
- Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and add to the crockpot, stirring to combine.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
