The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
This The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this recipe combines tender chicken with rich garlic and Parmesan for a truly satisfying meal. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to enjoy a hearty pasta dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: Simply toss the ingredients into your crockpot and let it work its magic.
- Flavorful and Rich: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and cream creates a sauce that is both savory and creamy.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone will love this delicious pasta dish—it’s sure to become a household favorite.
- Versatile: You can easily swap out the pasta type or add vegetables for variety.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This dish reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep or lunch the next day.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your experience and ensure success.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Crockpot
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Mixing spoon
- Serving bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Crockpot: The star of this recipe, it allows for slow cooking which enhances flavors while keeping chicken tender.
- Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors.
- Cutting board and knife: These tools are essential for preparing your chicken and other ingredients safely and efficiently.
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.
Ingredients:
– 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
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 evenly over the top.
Step 2: Add Creamy Ingredients
Add the chicken broth, grated Parmesan cheese, cubed cream cheese, and minced garlic over the seasoned chicken.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours. Ensure the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks. Stir well to combine it with the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Cook Pasta
While the chicken cooks, prepare your pasta according to package directions. Drain it once cooked.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Add the drained pasta to the shredded chicken mixture in the crockpot. Pour in heavy cream or half-and-half. Stir everything together until all pasta is well coated with sauce.
Step 7: Serve
Serve warm in bowls. Top with extra Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley if desired for added flavor and presentation.
Enjoy your delightful meal!
How to Serve The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Serving The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is all about enhancing its delicious flavors. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will make your meal even more enjoyable.
With a Fresh Salad
- A light green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
Garlic Bread
- Serve warm garlic bread on the side. It’s great for soaking up any extra sauce from the pasta.
Steamed Vegetables
- Steam some broccoli or asparagus. These veggies add color and nutrition to your plate while balancing the richness of the pasta.
Wine Pairing
- Pair with a glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. These wines enhance the flavors of garlic and Parmesan.
Extra Garnish
- Top with fresh parsley or additional grated Parmesan right before serving for an appealing finish.
Meal Prep Containers
- Consider packing leftovers in meal prep containers for easy lunches throughout the week. This dish reheats well!
How to Perfect The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
To achieve the ultimate flavor and texture in The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, consider these helpful tips.
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Choose Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts to ensure tenderness and flavor.
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Avoid Overcooking: Monitor cooking times closely; overcooked chicken can become dry. Use a meat thermometer for best results.
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Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides a stronger flavor than powdered alternatives, enhancing the overall dish.
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Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella for added creaminess and flavor depth.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before adding pasta; adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
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Let it Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking to let flavors meld together before serving.
Best Side Dishes for The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Pairing side dishes with The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing, croutons, and shaved Parmesan adds a nice crunch.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with olive oil and garlic, these can be roasted until caramelized for a flavorful side.
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Caprese Salad: Mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide freshness that balances the creamy pasta.
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Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer a low-carb alternative that pairs nicely with the rich pasta dish.
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Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce of the pasta dish.
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Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter is a simple yet delightful addition that kids love.
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Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes topped with sour cream and chives make for a hearty complement.
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Grilled Asparagus: Seasoned grilled asparagus spears add an elegant touch alongside your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Ignoring chicken size – Using chicken breasts that are too thick may lead to uneven cooking. Make sure your chicken breasts are of uniform size for consistent results.
- Skipping the seasoning – Not seasoning the chicken adequately can result in bland pasta. Always season your chicken with salt, pepper, and spices before cooking for maximum flavor.
- Overcooking the pasta – Adding pasta too early can lead to mushy noodles. Cook the pasta separately and only add it to the crockpot at the end for perfect texture.
- Neglecting cream addition timing – Adding cream too soon can cause it to curdle. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving for a smooth finish.
- Forgetting garnishes – Skipping fresh parsley or extra Parmesan can make your dish less appealing. Always garnish for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
- Freeze in individual portions or a large airtight container for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warm.
- Microwave – Place portions in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop – In a saucepan over medium heat, add a splash of broth or cream and stir until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; just increase cooking time by an hour on low.
What type of pasta works best?
Penne or rotini are excellent choices as they hold onto the sauce well.
Can I make this recipe without cream cheese?
Absolutely! You can replace cream cheese with sour cream or omit it entirely for a lighter version.
How do I customize this recipe?
You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers during cooking for extra nutrition and flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta options available at most grocery stores.
Final Thoughts
The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or different types of cheese. This cozy meal is sure to satisfy your family’s cravings and become a go-to dinner option!
The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe, a dish that effortlessly combines tender chicken, rich garlic, and creamy Parmesan. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this slow cooker recipe allows you to savor a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Just toss the ingredients into your crockpot, let it simmer, and enjoy a delicious pasta dish that everyone will love. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to suit various tastes with simple ingredient swaps.
Ingredients
- 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
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add chicken broth, grated Parmesan cheese, cubed cream cheese, and minced garlic over the seasoned chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Shred the cooked chicken in the crockpot using two forks and stir to combine with the sauce.
- Cook pasta separately according to package directions; drain when finished.
- Add drained pasta to the shredded chicken mixture along with heavy cream or half-and-half; stir until well combined.
- Serve warm with optional garnishes of parsley or extra Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4–5 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
