The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that feels like a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is one of my all-time favorites. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable dinner that your family will request again and again. Whether it’s a family gathering or just a regular Tuesday night, this recipe has you covered!

With tender chicken simmering in a creamy sauce, every bite is a delightful experience. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare. Just throw everything into the crockpot and let it work its magic while you go about your day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless cooking: Just set it and forget it! This recipe is perfect for busy days.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves pasta, and this creamy garlic Parmesan sauce makes it irresistible.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
• Rich flavors: The combination of garlic, cream cheese, and Parmesan creates a mouthwatering sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need to create this comforting dish!

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed and softened
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite)
• ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• Optional: chopped parsley or extra Parmesan for garnish

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adjust it to suit your tastes or use what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey breast or chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for different flavors.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or broccoli during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Change the pasta shape: Use any type of pasta you have at home—fettuccine, shells, or even gluten-free options work great!
• Spice it up: For a kick of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mix.

How to Make The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken breasts in your trusty crockpot. Sprinkle them generously with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This step is essential as it infuses flavor directly into the chicken as it cooks.

Step 2: Add Creamy Goodness

Next, pour in the chicken broth over the seasoned chicken. Then sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and add cubed cream cheese along with minced garlic. These ingredients create that luscious creamy sauce we all crave!

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover your crockpot and set it to low for about 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Cooking slowly allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together while keeping the chicken tender and juicy.

Step 4: Shred & Mix

Once your cooking time is up, take two forks and shred the chicken right in the crockpot. This not only incorporates it into that delicious sauce but also makes serving easier later on.

Step 5: Cook Your Pasta

While the chicken is shredding away in deliciousness, cook your pasta according to package directions. Once it’s al dente, drain it well before adding it straight into the crockpot.

Step 6: Creamy Finale

Now comes my favorite part! Pour in heavy cream or half-and-half into the pot with all those flavorful ingredients. Stir everything together until every piece of pasta is coated with that creamy goodness.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Finally, serve this warm bowl of happiness topped with extra Parmesan or fresh parsley if you’d like! Get ready for everyone to ask for seconds—this dish is simply irresistible!

Pro Tips for Making The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Making a delicious meal in your crockpot can be a breeze with just a few helpful tips! Here are some ways to ensure your garlic Parmesan chicken pasta turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese significantly enhance the flavor profile of the dish, making it richer and more aromatic.
• Don’t rush the cooking time – Allowing the chicken to cook on low for the full duration ensures it becomes tender and juicy, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with pasta types – While penne and rotini work well, feel free to try other pasta shapes. Some hold sauces better than others, adding variety to your meals.
• Add veggies for extra nutrition – Toss in some spinach or broccoli during the last hour of cooking for added nutrients and color, transforming this dish into a more balanced meal.
• Save leftovers wisely – Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive its creamy texture.

How to Serve The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Serving your crockpot garlic Parmesan chicken pasta can be both fun and creative! Here are some ideas to present this cozy dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley – A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a bright pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors.
• Extra grated Parmesan – Offering additional cheese on top allows everyone to customize their serving according to their taste preference.
• Crushed red pepper flakes – For those who like a bit of heat, providing crushed red pepper flakes can elevate the dish with a spicy kick.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread – Perfect for sopping up that delicious sauce, garlic bread is a classic pairing that never disappoints. You can easily make it by spreading butter and minced garlic on slices of baguette before baking until golden.
• Caesar salad – A crisp Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness alongside your creamy pasta. Toss romaine lettuce with croutons, vegan dressing, and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
• Steamed vegetables – Lightly steamed green beans or asparagus provide a nutritious balance to your meal while enhancing its presentation with vibrant colors.
• Roasted potatoes – Seasoned roasted potatoes offer a hearty side that complements the pasta beautifully. Toss them in olive oil and herbs before roasting until crispy.

Enjoy crafting this comforting meal with these serving suggestions, making it not just dinner but also a delightful experience for you and your family!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal without the last-minute stress. You can make it ahead of time and store it for quick dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool down before freezing.
• Portion out the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a microwave-safe dish or on the stovetop over low heat.
• Add a splash of broth or cream to help restore creaminess while reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that you might find helpful.

Can I use other types of pasta for The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute with your favorite pasta, such as fusilli, farfalle, or even gluten-free options. Just adjust cooking times accordingly based on pasta type.

How do I ensure The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe stays creamy?

To keep it creamy, make sure to stir in the heavy cream just before serving. Adding extra broth can also help if it thickens too much after refrigeration.

Can I add vegetables to The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe?

Yes! Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition and flavor.

What can I use instead of cream cheese in this recipe?

You can replace cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or silken tofu blended until smooth. This will still give you that creamy texture!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe! It’s a special comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table. Enjoy every creamy bite and share it with loved ones—you’ll want this dish on repeat! Happy cooking!