This is The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe, a perfect harmony of flavors that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dish. Ideal for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this recipe delivers comfort food at its finest with minimal effort. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta makes it a standout choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Prep: Simply add ingredients to the crockpot and let it work its magic while you enjoy your day.
- Rich Flavor: The blend of garlic and Parmesan creates a savory sauce that elevates any meal.
- Versatile Meal: Pair it with your favorite pasta type or serve over rice for a delightful twist.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will love this creamy dish, making it perfect for family gatherings.
- Comforting Goodness: Creamy, cheesy, and hearty—this dish offers the ultimate comfort after a long day.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. For this recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen equipment to help you create the best results with minimal fuss.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring the chicken turns out tender and flavorful.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients without damaging your counters.
- Knife: Essential for easily prepping your chicken and garlic.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for consistent taste in every batch.
Ingredients
This crockpot garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is the ultimate comfort food made easy. Tender chicken simmers in a slow cooker with rich Parmesan, cream cheese, garlic, and broth—creating a luscious, savory sauce that clings to every bite of pasta. Finished with a splash of cream and topped with fresh parsley or extra cheese, this recipe is a cozy, satisfying meal your family will ask for on repeat.
For the Chicken
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
For the Sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
For the Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite)
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Optional Garnish
- 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 Sauce Ingredients
- Pour in the chicken broth over the seasoned chicken.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese, cubed cream cheese, and minced garlic over everything.
Step 3: Cooking Time
- Cover the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 4: Shred Chicken
- Shred the chicken in the crockpot using two forks.
- Stir to combine shredded chicken with the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Cook Pasta
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain well before adding to the crockpot.
Step 6: Combine Everything
- Pour in heavy cream or half-and-half into the crockpot.
- Stir everything together until pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce.
Step 7: Serve
- Serve warm.
- Top with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley as desired.
How to Serve The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
This delicious crockpot garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Serve it warm and enjoy the rich flavors with these serving suggestions.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing make a refreshing complement.
- Greek Salad: A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta adds a tangy twist alongside the creamy pasta.
- Spinach Salad: Lightly dressed spinach with nuts and dried cranberries provides a healthy contrast.
Add Bread for Dipping
- Garlic Bread: Toasted with butter and garlic, this classic side is perfect for soaking up the savory sauce.
- Focaccia: Soft and fluffy, focaccia adds a delightful texture alongside the pasta dish.
Top it Off
- Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top for added color and flavor.
- Extra Parmesan: Offer grated Parmesan at the table so guests can add as much as they like.
How to Perfect The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
To elevate your crockpot garlic Parmesan chicken pasta, follow these simple tips for optimal results.
- Choose Quality Chicken: Use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving; feel free to adjust salt and pepper to your liking.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: For the best consistency, cook your pasta just until it’s al dente before adding it to the crockpot.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic instead of garlic powder can enhance the dish’s flavor profile significantly.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Try mixing different cheeses like mozzarella or Asiago for unique twists on the classic recipe.
Best Side Dishes for The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your crockpot garlic Parmesan chicken pasta can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted in olive oil add color and nutrition to your plate.
- Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: Sautéed Brussels sprouts are crispy and flavorful when paired with bacon bits.
- Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli offers a healthy green option that complements the pasta nicely.
- Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a vibrant appetizer.
- Risotto: Creamy risotto brings an extra layer of richness that pairs beautifully with the chicken pasta.
- Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables makes for a delightful snacking side.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the seasoning – Not seasoning the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Use garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper generously to enhance the taste.
- Overcooking the chicken – Cooking the chicken too long can dry it out. Stick to the recommended cooking times for tender results.
- Ignoring pasta cooking instructions – Cooking pasta in the crockpot can lead to mushy noodles. Always cook pasta separately according to package directions.
- Using cold cream cheese – Adding cold cream cheese can create lumps in your sauce. Make sure it’s cubed and softened before mixing it into the crockpot.
- Not garnishing – Forgetting to add parsley or extra Parmesan can miss the final touch that elevates your dish. Always garnish before serving for a pop of flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
- You can freeze leftovers for up to 2-3 months.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and label with the date.
Reheating The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place in a baking dish, cover, and heat until warmed through.
- Microwave – Heat in microwave-safe containers; stir occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop – Heat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed for moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe:
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; just increase cooking time by an hour.
What types of pasta work best?
Penne or rotini are great choices as they hold onto the sauce well.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well and reheats nicely, making it perfect for meal prep.
Can I customize this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition.
Final Thoughts
This recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or sauces based on your family’s preferences. Try making The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe today; it’s sure to become a beloved addition to your dinner rotation!
The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Experience a delightful blend of comfort and flavor with The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe. This creamy, savory dish transforms simple ingredients into a family favorite, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Tender chicken simmers with rich garlic and Parmesan cheese, creating a luscious sauce that envelops every bite of pasta. With minimal prep time, you can set it and forget it while the slow cooker does all the work. Serve this hearty meal topped with fresh herbs or extra cheese for an irresistible dinner that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-5 hours
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions
- 1. Place chicken in the crockpot and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- 2. Pour chicken broth over the chicken; add Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and minced garlic.
- 3. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until chicken is tender.
- 4. Shred the chicken in the crockpot; stir to combine with the creamy sauce.
- 5. Cook pasta separately according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
- 6. Stir heavy cream into the mixture in the crockpot, then add cooked pasta and mix until well combined.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
