This article presents The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe, a delightful dish that delivers comfort in every bite. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe combines tender chicken, rich garlic, and creamy Parmesan sauce with pasta. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to enjoy a hassle-free meal that impresses everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: Simply toss everything into the crockpot and let it simmer while you go about your day.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a savory sauce that enhances the chicken and pasta.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting meal; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
- Versatile Ingredients: Use your choice of pasta and adjust seasonings to fit your family’s taste preferences.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, gather the necessary tools to make this crockpot garlic Parmesan chicken pasta recipe a breeze. Having everything ready will streamline your preparation process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Crockpot
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Mixing spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Crockpot: The star of this recipe; it allows for slow cooking, which tenderizes the chicken beautifully.
- Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurements for spices, leading to consistent flavor every time.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe space for chopping ingredients like garlic with ease.
- Mixing spoon: Ideal for combining ingredients in the crockpot without damaging delicate components.
Ingredients
This crockpot garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is made with simple yet delicious ingredients. Gather these before you start cooking:
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 them with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Add Sauce Ingredients
Add in the chicken broth, grated Parmesan cheese, cream cheese cubes, and minced garlic over the seasoned chicken.
Step 3: Cook
Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Step 4: Shred Chicken
Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks. Mix it well with the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Cook Pasta
In a separate pot, cook pasta according to package directions. Drain when finished.
Step 6: Combine Pasta with Sauce
Add the drained pasta into the crockpot. Pour in heavy cream or half-and-half, stirring until everything is well combined and creamy.
Step 7: Serve
Serve warm and garnish with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!
How to Serve The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
This creamy and flavorful dish is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your experience with the best crockpot garlic Parmesan chicken pasta.
Serve with Fresh Salad
- A crisp green salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta. Toss mixed greens with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette for a vibrant side.
Pair with Garlic Bread
- Soft, buttery garlic bread complements the flavors perfectly. Serve it warm for dipping into the creamy sauce for an extra treat.
Top with Extra Cheese
- For cheese lovers, sprinkle additional grated Parmesan over the dish just before serving. It adds a deliciously cheesy finish that enhances every bite.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped parsley or basil not only brightens up the dish but also adds a burst of fresh flavor. Sprinkle generously just before serving.
Offer a Side of Roasted Vegetables
- Roasted seasonal veggies provide a hearty and healthy side. Prepare vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots drizzled with olive oil and herbs.
How to Perfect The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
To achieve the best results with this recipe, consider these helpful tips.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan will elevate the flavors significantly.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for optimal flavor.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking your pasta slightly undercooked ensures it maintains its texture when mixed with the creamy sauce.
Add Veggies: For added nutrition, consider mixing in some spinach or peas during the last hour of cooking.
Best Side Dishes for The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Complement your meal with these delicious side dishes that pair wonderfully with the best crockpot garlic Parmesan chicken pasta.
- Garlic Bread: This classic choice is perfect for scooping up creamy sauce.
- Caesar Salad: Crispy romaine lettuce topped with croutons and Caesar dressing provides a crunchy contrast.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and health benefits without overpowering the main dish.
- Roasted Asparagus: Drizzled with olive oil and seasoned lightly, asparagus makes a sophisticated side.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw balances out the richness of the pasta nicely.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side that harmonizes well with Italian flavors.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms add an elegant touch to your table setting.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn offers a delightful crunch that complements the creaminess of the pasta dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding mistakes can make your cooking experience much smoother. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken before cooking can result in bland flavors. Always sprinkle seasonings generously to enhance the taste.
- Using cold chicken: Starting with cold chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure the chicken is at room temperature before adding it to the crockpot.
- Overcooking pasta: Cooking pasta separately too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions and add it to the crockpot just before serving.
- Neglecting the cream addition: Forgetting to add cream or half-and-half can leave your dish less creamy. Don’t skip this step for a rich, satisfying sauce.
- Not shredding chicken thoroughly: Leaving large chunks of chicken can affect the texture of your dish. Shred the chicken well so it mixes evenly with the sauce.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow the pasta to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
- Make sure to label containers with dates for easy tracking.
Reheating The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and bake until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warm.
- Stovetop: Place in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe.
How do I ensure my pasta doesn’t get mushy?
Cooking pasta separately and adding it just before serving helps maintain its texture.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; just increase the cooking time by an hour on low.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Penne or rotini work great as they hold onto the sauce well, but feel free to use your favorite type.
Can I make The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy ingredients with vegan alternatives like cashew cream and nutritional yeast for a similar flavor profile.
How long does this dish take to cook in a crockpot?
It typically takes about 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high for tender results.
Final Thoughts
The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding vegetables or using different types of cheese. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, and it’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your home!
The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is a creamy, flavorful dish that transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal. With tender chicken and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce, this slow cooker recipe makes family dinners both easy and delicious. Just toss everything in the crockpot, let it simmer, and enjoy a comforting dinner that pleases everyone at the table. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours on low (or 2 hours on high)
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
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)
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the crockpot and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in chicken broth, add Parmesan cheese, cream cheese cubes, and minced garlic over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Shred the chicken in the crockpot using two forks and mix with the sauce.
- Cook pasta separately according to package directions; drain when done.
- Add drained pasta to the crockpot along with heavy cream; stir to combine.
- Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
