Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite compares to the rich, creamy goodness of pasta. Combine that with the tender flavors of chicken, and you’ve got a dish that hits all the right notes. Enter the Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. This delightful recipe combines the dreamy tastes of garlic and Parmesan cheese with succulent chicken, all simmered to perfection in a crockpot. The simplicity of this dish is what makes it all the more appealing; you can prepare it in the morning and let it work its magic throughout the day while you focus on other tasks. By the time you’re ready to serve, you’ll have a dazzling, comforting meal that your family will love.
Why We Love This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
There are countless reasons you’ll fall in love with this dish. First and foremost is its ease of preparation. With just a few straightforward steps, you can have a hearty meal without spending the entire day in the kitchen. This recipe requires minimal active cooking time, allowing you to attend to other activities while it cooks. The creamy, cheesy sauce that envelops the chicken and pasta is irresistible and will have everyone asking for seconds.
Additionally, the use of a crockpot means that the flavors meld beautifully. The chicken becomes incredibly tender and infuses the sauce with its juices while cooking. The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and cream creates a rich and creamy dish that satisfies all the comfort food cravings. You’ll appreciate how versatile this dish is, too; whether you’re serving it on a weeknight or at a gathering, it’s sure to impress!
Ingredients for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
To whip up this delicious meal, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- ½ cup heavy cream
How to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Directions
Making this incredible dish is as easy as pie! Follow these simple directions to prepare your Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta.
- Start by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts directly into the crockpot. It’s important to lay them flat so they cook evenly.
- Season the chicken generously with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This is where the flavor begins, so be sure to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Next, pour the chicken broth over the chicken. This will help in tenderizing the meat and infusing it with flavor.
- Take the grated Parmesan cheese and cream cheese cubes, then add them to the crockpot. This combination provides the creamy texture and zesty flavor that you’ll love.
- Sprinkle the minced garlic on top, ensuring that all the ingredients are well submerged in the liquid.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be tender enough to shred easily.
- Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken inside the crockpot. Stir it in with the cheese and broth to create a creamy mixture.
- While your chicken is cooking, boil the pasta in a separate pot according to the package directions.
- After the pasta is finished cooking, drain it thoroughly.
- Add the drained pasta to the crockpot with the chicken mixture, along with the heavy cream. Stir gently to combine everything nicely.
- Let it all cook together for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld perfectly before serving.
- Serve your Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta warm and, if desired, topple some extra grated Parmesan on top or sprinkle with chopped parsley for garnish.
How to Serve Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This crockpot dish is perfect for serving to family and friends. You can dish it out into generous portions right from the crockpot, making it a convenient option for gatherings or family dinners.
For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a light salad to balance the richness of the pasta, or offer some crusty bread on the side to soak up the cheesy sauce. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top adds color and an aromatic element, captivating the eyes and enhancing the dish further. The creamy texture makes this dish best enjoyed warm, but if any leftovers exist, it’s still delicious the next day!
Expert Tips: Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
To ensure your experience is as smooth as possible, here are some expert tips:
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: The better the quality of your chicken and cheese, the tastier your dish will be. Opt for fresh, organic products when possible.
- Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Seasoning your chicken adequately is key. The flavors will influence the final dish, so don’t skimp on garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add Vegetables: If you want to boost nutrition, consider tossing in some vegetables like spinach or broccoli during the last 30 minutes of cooking. They’ll retain some crunch and add color to your dish.
- Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it cook uncovered for a while, or add in more cream or cheese before serving.
- Save Time with Pre-Cooked Pasta: If you’re in a rush, you can purchase pre-cooked pasta to save time. Just toss it in at the end to warm it up.
How to Store Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is not uncommon with this scrumptious dish), storing them is simple! Let the pasta cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can stay in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating, you might find the pasta has absorbed some of the creamy sauce. To remedy this, simply add a splash of chicken broth or a bit of milk before warming. This will help restore the creamy texture you expect. You can reheat it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until thoroughly warmed.
Variations of Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
While this recipe is already beloved for its simplicity and flavor, you can certainly customize it to suit your mood or dietary preferences. Here are a few variations you might consider:
- Add Spinach or Kale: Incorporate leafy greens into the dish for added nutrition. Toss them into the crockpot in the final 30 minutes of cooking to keep them vibrant.
- Make It Spicy: If you love a kick, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to your seasoning. This turns the dish into a zesty delight without overpowering its essence.
- Swap the Cheese: While Parmesan is fantastic, feel free to mix it up with Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a different flavor profile. Just be mindful of saltiness; these cheeses can have a stronger flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Replace regular pasta with gluten-free pasta to accommodate gluten sensitivities. Follow package directions for cooking times since gluten-free pasta can vary.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What can I serve with Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
You can serve this dish with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. The creamy pasta pairs beautifully with a light, refreshing side dish.
How long does it take to make Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
The preparation time is minimal, and you can set it to cook in your crockpot for 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. This makes it an excellent option for busy days!
Can I freeze the Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Just store it in an airtight container before freezing it. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Is it necessary to cook the pasta separately for the Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
It’s recommended to cook the pasta separately to avoid it becoming overcooked or mushy in the crockpot. By adding it in at the end, you ensure it stays perfectly al dente.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work very well in this recipe and can offer a richer flavor. The cooking time may be similar, but always check for tenderness before shredding.
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
Seasoning
- to taste garlic powder
- to taste onion powder
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Place boneless, skinless chicken breasts directly into the crockpot lay flat.
- Season chicken generously with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour chicken broth over the chicken.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese and cream cheese cubes to the crockpot.
- Sprinkle minced garlic on top.
Cooking
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken inside the crockpot with two forks.
- Stir the shredded chicken in with the cheese and broth mixture.
Pasta Preparation
- Boil the pasta in a separate pot according to the package directions.
- Drain the pasta thoroughly.
- Add the drained pasta to the crockpot along with heavy cream and stir gently to combine.
- Let it cook together for an additional 5 to 10 minutes.
Serving
- Serve warm with extra grated Parmesan on top or sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
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