Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish that comes together effortlessly. Tender chicken slow-cooked in a cheesy garlic sauce pairs perfectly with your favorite pasta for an easy weeknight dinner.

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 and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Step 2: Add the chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and minced garlic over 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 directly in the crockpot with two forks and stir to combine with the sauce.
5. Step 5: Cook the pasta according to package directions, then drain and add it to the crockpot.
6. Step 6: Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half and stir everything together until the pasta is well coated and creamy.
7. Step 7: Serve warm, topped with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Cook pasta separately to avoid overcooking and maintain a perfect texture in the final dish.
• Add the cream after slow cooking to prevent sauce separation and keep it smooth and creamy.
• Use fresh garlic and freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melt.
• For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a lower-fat milk alternative.
• Add steamed vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added color and nutrients.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess. You can also freeze single portions, though the sauce texture may change slightly; stirring during reheating helps bring it back together.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape you like will work. Penne, rotini, or even shells are great for holding the creamy sauce.

Is it possible to make this recipe without a crockpot?

Yes, you can make a similar dish on the stovetop by cooking the chicken in a covered skillet with the broth and cheeses over low heat until tender, then shredding and adding cooked pasta and cream. However, the slow cooker provides the best tenderness and hands-off convenience.

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 56 reviews

• Author: Victor
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 5 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

A creamy, comforting Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe featuring tender slow-cooked chicken breasts in a rich garlic and Parmesan sauce, combined with perfectly cooked pasta and finished with a smooth heavy cream touch. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for busy weeknights, delivering indulgent flavors with minimal effort.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Seasonings

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

Sauce Ingredients

• 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 Garnishes

• Chopped parsley
• Extra Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Season the chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the crockpot. Evenly sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper over the chicken to infuse flavor.
2. Add sauce ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth, then add the grated Parmesan cheese, cubed cream cheese, and minced garlic on top of the chicken, layering the flavors for the sauce.
3. Slow cook the chicken: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken breasts are fully cooked through and tender enough to shred.
4. Shred the chicken: Using two forks, shred the cooked chicken directly in the crockpot until shredded pieces are combined well with the creamy sauce.
5. Cook the pasta: While the chicken is cooking or once it’s done, prepare the pasta separately according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
6. Combine pasta and cream: Add the cooked pasta into the crockpot with the shredded chicken and sauce. Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half, then stir well to coat the pasta evenly and create a luscious creamy texture.
7. Serve: Serve the creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta warm, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese and/or chopped parsley for a fresh finish.

Notes

• Cook pasta separately to avoid overcooking and to maintain a firm texture.
• Add the heavy cream only after slow cooking prevents sauce separation and keeps it smooth.
• Use fresh garlic and freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the richest and most authentic flavors.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.
• Leftovers can be frozen in single portions; upon reheating, stir well to bring sauce back together despite slight texture changes.
• This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or toasted garlic bread to complete your meal.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Crockpot chicken pasta, creamy garlic chicken, Parmesan pasta, slow cooker dinners, easy pasta recipes, comfort food