The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting meal perfect for busy days. Tender chicken simmers in a cheesy garlic sauce, then combines with pasta for an easy one-pot dinner the whole family will love.

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

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken.
2. Step 2: Add the chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and minced garlic on top of the chicken.
3. Step 3: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
4. Step 4: Shred the chicken inside the crockpot using two forks. Stir well to combine the chicken with the creamy sauce.
5. Step 5: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta well.
6. Step 6: Add the cooked pasta to the crockpot and pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Stir everything together until the pasta is fully coated with the creamy sauce.
7. Step 7: Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use rotini or penne pasta as they hold the sauce well, but feel free to swap with your favorite pasta shape.
• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning before cooking.
• Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter dish.
• Try adding steamed vegetables like broccoli or peas for a boost of color and nutrition.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but increase the cooking time by about 1 to 2 hours on low. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before shredding.

What type of pasta works best in crockpot dishes?

Shorter pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells work best as they mix well with sauces and hold up better without becoming mushy.

The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

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4.6 from 74 reviews

This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting one-pot meal featuring tender shredded chicken in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce. Easy to prepare and perfect for busy days, this recipe combines savory spices, cheese, and pasta for a delicious family favorite.

• Author: Rico
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
• Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 5 hours 10 minutes (low) or 2 hours 10 minutes to 3 hours 10 minutes (high)
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

Cheese and Sauce

• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed and softened
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half

Pasta

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite)

Optional Garnish

• chopped parsley
• extra Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Season the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Sprinkle evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to season the meat thoroughly.
2. Add Liquids and Cheese: Pour in chicken broth and add grated Parmesan, cubed softened cream cheese, and minced garlic on top of the chicken. This mixture will create the creamy sauce.
3. Cook the Chicken: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender enough to shred.
4. Shred the Chicken: Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot, stirring it into the creamy sauce to combine flavors evenly.
5. Prepare the Pasta: While the chicken is finishing, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta well.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the crockpot and pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Stir thoroughly until the pasta is coated with the creamy sauce.
7. Serve: Serve the dish warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley if desired for added flavor and presentation.

Notes

• You can use any pasta shape you prefer, but penne or rotini work best to hold the sauce.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of chicken broth slightly or cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes.
• Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half for a lighter option, but the sauce will be less rich.
• Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of cream or broth.

Keywords: crockpot chicken pasta, garlic parmesan chicken, slow cooker chicken recipe, creamy chicken pasta, easy dinner, comfort food