When it comes to a comforting dish that combines creamy textures and robust flavors, few recipes can rival the magic of Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. This irresistible meal marries tender, shredded chicken with rich Parmesan and cream sauce, perfectly coating your pasta for a delightful experience. As someone who often finds myself in need of quick weeknight dinners that the whole family will adore, this recipe has become a staple in my rotation. It’s a lifesaver for busy days and an absolute crowd-pleaser at gatherings!

Why you’ll love this dish

So, what makes this recipe stand out from the plethora of slow-cooked meals? Well, for starters, it’s incredibly convenient. If you’re looking for a dish that you can throw together in minutes and let your crockpot do the work, this is it. It’s not only budget-friendly but also packed with flavor that will please even picky eaters. Perfect for hectic weeknights, or when you need a comforting meal to enjoy with loved ones, this dish shines in its simplicity and heartiness.

“I can’t believe how easy this was! The sauce is to die for, and the chicken turned out so tender. My kids are already asking for seconds!” – A satisfied home cook

The cooking process explained

Ready to dive into the deliciousness? Let’s break down how to whip up this crockpot wonder. In just a few steps, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to serve. This recipe follows a straightforward path: you’ll start with seasoned chicken cooked low and slow until it reaches fork-tender perfection, then toss in your pasta to soak up all those creamy flavors. Keep reading for the ingredients you’ll need!

What you’ll need

Key ingredients

To recreate this mouthwatering dish, gather the following items:

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

Feel free to swap the pasta type based on your preference—whatever makes your taste buds happy!

Step-by-step instructions

Place the chicken breasts directly in your crockpot.
Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper generously over the chicken.
Pour the chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and minced garlic over the chicken.
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. You want the chicken to be fully cooked through and tender enough to shred easily.
Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken in the crockpot, stirring it into the sauce.
In a separate pot, cook your pasta according to the package directions. Drain it and then add it to the crockpot.
Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half and mix everything together until the pasta is well coated and creamy.
Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley if desired.

Best ways to enjoy it

Serving your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is where the fun begins! You can pair it with a fresh side salad to balance out the richness or some crusty garlic bread to mop up that delectable sauce. A sprig of parsley for garnish not only adds a gorgeous pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile. Consider a zesty lemon wedge on the side for those who enjoy a hint of citrus to brighten the dish.

Storage and reheating tips

Got leftovers? This dish stores wonderfully, making it a great option for meal prep. Simply let any leftovers cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. You can keep it refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, either gently warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

If you want to freeze it, ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Helpful cooking tips

For the best flavor, opt for high-quality chicken broth; it really makes a difference in the overall taste.
Don’t skip the heavy cream or half-and-half as it adds that ultimate creaminess to the sauce—perfect for coating pasta!
Shred your chicken inside the crockpot, so you retain all those flavorful juices.

Creative twists

Love experimenting in the kitchen? Here are some fun variations to consider:

Add Vegetables: Toss in some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or thyme to elevate the aroma.

Your questions answered

How long do I need to cook the chicken in the crockpot?

You can cook the chicken on low for about 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. It should shred easily when it’s done.

Can I substitute the cream cheese?

Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt, although it may change the creaminess slightly.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Definitely! The flavors are mild yet delicious, making it a hit with kids and adults alike. You can adjust the seasoning according to your family’s taste preferences.

Enjoy making this delightful dish; it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

A comforting and creamy dish combining tender shredded chicken with rich Parmesan and cream sauce, perfectly coating your pasta for a delightful experience.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 5

Total Time 5 10

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American, Italian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

Chicken and Seasoning

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp salt

Broth and Dairy

2 cups chicken broth Use high-quality broth for best flavor.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed and softened Can be substituted with Greek yogurt.
1 tbsp minced garlic
½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half Essential for creaminess.

Pasta

12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite) Feel free to swap types.

Garnish

to taste chopped parsley or extra Parmesan for garnish

Instructions

Preparation

Place the chicken breasts directly in your crockpot.
Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper generously over the chicken.
Pour the chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and minced garlic over the chicken.
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.

Shredding and Mixing

Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken in the crockpot, stirring it into the sauce.
In a separate pot, cook your pasta according to the package directions. Drain it and then add it to the crockpot.
Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half and mix everything together until the pasta is well coated and creamy.
Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. For reheating, add a splash of broth if needed.

Keyword comfort food, Crockpot Chicken Pasta, easy dinner, Garlic Parmesan Pasta, Slow Cooker Recipe