The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

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I stumbled upon this delightful recipe on a particularly chilly afternoon when the skies were draped in gray, and a warm, comforting meal was just the remedy for the gloomy weather. As I stirred the pot, the scent of garlic wafted through my kitchen, curling around me like a cozy blanket. The aroma of melting Parmesan danced in harmony with tender chicken, which was soon to be transformed into a luscious pasta dish. After the first bite, I knew this had to become a staple in my home—and I’m confident it will be in yours too!

With every serving, you’re met with creamy goodness enveloping perfectly cooked pasta and juicy chicken. It’s a dish brimming with nostalgia and warmth, perfect for chilly evenings or when you just need a little pick-me-up. The best part? You’ll see your family’s faces light up as they bask in the warmth of the kitchen and the delightful flavors of this comforting meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy: Simply toss in the ingredients, set the cooking time, and let the magic happen!
• Full of Flavor: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and cream creates a rich sauce that oozes satisfaction.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this dish. It’s a sure crowd-pleaser!
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein from chicken and a rich source of carbs from pasta, plus you can use whole wheat pasta for an added health boost!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Just prep, cook, and enjoy—dinner is practically done before it even starts!

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and juicy, the star of our show!
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Amplifies the garlic goodness without the fuss of peeling.
• 1 tsp onion powder: A subtle hint of sweetness that rounds out the flavor.
• ½ tsp black pepper: A little kick for added warmth.
• ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors in our dish!
• 2 cups chicken broth: Builds a savory base for our creamy sauce.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melted cheesy goodness—who could resist?
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed and softened: It creates the creamy texture we’re after.
• 1 tbsp minced garlic: Fresh garlic brings an aromatic punch to the dish.
• 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite): Holds onto that luxurious sauce beautifully.
• ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half: For extra creaminess that comforts the soul.
• Optional: chopped parsley or extra Parmesan for garnish: Beautiful and fresh finishing touches.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

Place the Chicken in the Crockpot

Start by laying the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in your trusty crockpot. They’ll be bathing in flavor soon!

Add Seasonings and Liquid

Sprinkle the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Then, pour in the chicken broth, followed by the Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and minced garlic. The sight of all these ingredients mixing together is almost divine!

Cook Until Tender

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Your kitchen will start smelling heavenly as the chicken cooks to tender perfection!

Shred and Combine

Once the chicken is ready, use two forks to shred it right in the pot (it’s okay to get a little messy!). Stir to combine all the flavors—it’s a creamy masterpiece building around you.

Cook the Pasta

As the chicken works its magic, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain, and get ready to mix it all together.

Stir it All Together

Now, gently fold the cooked pasta into the creamy chicken mixture in the crockpot. Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half, and give everything a good stir until the pasta is gorgeously coated in that creamy goodness.

Serve and Enjoy!

Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of parsley or additional Parmesan cheese. Watch your loved ones dig in and relish every single bite!

Pro Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure your chicken has space to cook evenly for that tender texture.
• Quality Cheeses: Go for high-quality cheese for rich flavor—it truly makes a difference!
• Taste Along the Way: A quick taste at various stages can help you adjust seasonings to suit your crowd.

Flavor Variations

• Add Veggies: Toss in fresh spinach or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and nutrition.
• Herb It Up: Use fresh basil or Italian seasoning to elevate the flavors.
• Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes will bring some heat if you like a kick!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your creamy pasta with a crisp salad or warm crusty bread to soak up those delicious flavors. A glass of chilled white wine or iced tea completes this cozy dining experience beautifully!

Make-Ahead & Storage

Prep this dish in advance by cutting the chicken and measuring out your seasonings. It stores well in the fridge for 3 days. Just reheat gently on a stovetop or microwave!

Leftovers

Transform leftovers into delicious burritos or toss them into a veggie-packed soup for a quick, hearty meal.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish! Allow it to cool completely, scoop it into airtight containers, and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to keep it silky. You can also warm it gently in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can! Just add an extra hour to the cooking time.

Can I make this with other meats?
Absolutely! This recipe is also fabulous with boneless thighs or even shredded rotisserie chicken.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, gluten-free pasta works beautifully; just make sure to adjust cooking time as needed.

What if I don’t have chicken broth?
Vegetable broth or even water can be a substitute, but the flavor might be less intense.

Final Thoughts

There you have it, my dear friends! This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a hug in a bowl, perfect for lazy evenings or a quick weekday dinner. As the flavors meld together overnight and the delightful aroma fills your home, you’ll know you’ve made something truly special. So roll up those sleeves, get cozy in your kitchen, and let’s make some memories—one delicious dish at a time! Happy cooking!