The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a comforting dish that brings warmth to any dinner table. It combines tender chicken, rich flavors, and creamy pasta, all easily made in a slow cooker. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want to come home to a warm meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The crockpot does all the work, allowing you to enjoy more time with your family or relax after a long day.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

This dish is a winner for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make. Just toss everything into the crockpot, set the timer, and forget about it! Second, the flavors are irresistible. The combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and chicken creates a savory sauce that clings to every bite of pasta. Third, you can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. Whether you want it creamier or with extra veggies, the flexibility makes it a great choice for all. Finally, it’s a perfect family meal that even picky eaters will love!

HOW TO MAKE The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Making this delicious recipe is as simple as following a few easy steps. Here’s a breakdown of how to prepare and enjoy this hearty meal.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, you’ll need:

• A slow cooker (crockpot)
• Measuring spoons
• A cutting board
• A sharp knife
• A mixing spoon
• Two forks for shredding chicken
• A pot for cooking pasta

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 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

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Make sure they are evenly spread out.
2. Add Spices: Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper over the chicken. This will season the meat well.
3. Combine Ingredients: Pour the chicken broth over the chicken. Then add the grated Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and minced garlic. These ingredients will create a flavorful sauce.
4. Cook the Chicken: Cover the crockpot with its lid. Cook on low heat for 4-5 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and very tender.
5. Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken in the crockpot. Stir everything to mix the chicken with the sauce thoroughly.
6. Cook the Pasta: In a separate pot, cook the pasta according to the package directions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta before adding it to the crockpot.
7. Combine Everything: Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half into the crockpot. Gently stir to combine everything together until the pasta is well coated and creamy.
8. Serve: Serve the pasta warm. You can top it with extra Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley for added flavor and decoration if you like.

 

 

HOW TO SERVE The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is wonderful on its own, but you can serve it with some delicious sides. A fresh garden salad is a nice complement to this warm dish. Garlic bread or crusty bread works well, too, letting you soak up any extra sauce from your plate. For a complete meal, you might also consider pairing it with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.

STORAGE & FREEZING: The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

You might have leftovers after making this dish. Here’s how to store and freeze it:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last for about 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.
• Freezing: If you want to make this meal ahead of time, you can freeze it. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stove.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Want to make your meal extra special? Here are some ideas:

• Add some fresh vegetables to the crockpot, like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms, during the last hour of cooking.
• Serve with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Make it a hearty dish with some grilled chicken on top.
• Pair with a glass of white wine or a refreshing drink.

VARIATIONS

There are many ways to switch up this recipe to fit your tastes. Here are some ideas:

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with diced tofu or your favorite vegetables.
• Different Cheeses: Try using different cheeses such as cheddar or mozzarella for a new flavor twist.
• Add more flavors: Incorporate different herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme for an aromatic touch.
• Pasta Choices: Change up the type of pasta based on your preference. Other kinds like fusilli or farfalle can work beautifully.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but adjust cooking time. It may take an extra hour on low or half an hour on high.
2. Can I use low-fat cream cheese? Yes, using low-fat cream cheese is fine. It may slightly change the creaminess but will still taste great.
3. Is this dish gluten-free? To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure the other ingredients are safe for gluten sensitivity.
4. Can I make this dish spicy? Absolutely! Add some red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasonings for a little heat.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you want to prepare this recipe ahead of time, consider the following tips:

• Prep Ingredients the Night Before: Chop or measure out your ingredients and store them in the fridge. On cooking day, just place everything in the crockpot.
• Make the Sauce Ahead: You can mix the cream cheese, garlic, and seasonings in advance. Just keep it cold until you are ready to cook.
• Cook and Assemble Later: Cook the chicken and sauce in the crockpot, then store it separately from the pasta. When ready to serve, combine them.

This planning can make your dinner time even easier, ensuring you have a fantastic meal with minimal last-minute effort. Enjoy the convenience and flavor of Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta!

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