Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Prepare to be swept off your feet by Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, a dish that’s pure comfort in a bowl! Imagine tender chicken bathed in a creamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce that clings to every last twist of pasta—the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas and brings everyone running to the table. This one-pot wonder lets your slow cooker do all the heavy lifting, so you can enjoy cozy, homemade flavor with a fraction of the fuss and cleanup.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is how it transforms simple staples into something truly special. Each ingredient plays a starring role, adding richness, depth, or a pop of freshness to the final dish.

• Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless, and perfect for absorbing all that creamy, cheesy flavor as they simmer to juicy perfection.
• Garlic powder: A pantry hero that ramps up the savory notes without overpowering the sauce.
• Black pepper: Adds just the right amount of kick to balance the creaminess of the sauce.
• Salt: Enhances every bite and ties all the flavors together.
• Heavy cream: The secret to an ultra-luxurious, smooth sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
• Chicken broth: Infuses the dish with savory depth and keeps everything moist and flavorful.
• Parmesan cheese: Offers a salty punch and that nutty, classic comfort that defines this pasta.
• Mozzarella cheese: Delivers stretch, melt, and extra creaminess for serious comfort food vibes.
• Minced garlic: Provides robust, aromatic freshness (don’t skip it—it makes a big difference!).
• Cream cheese: Thickens the sauce and imparts luscious tang—that little something extra you’ll love.
• Penne or rotini pasta: Sturdy shapes like these grab hold of every drop of sauce for the ultimate bite.
• Chopped parsley (optional): A sprinkle of green to brighten up each serving and add a fresh finish.

How to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Start with the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot so they have plenty of room to soak up all the flavors as they cook. This guarantees extra-juicy pieces that practically fall apart with a fork.

Step 2: Season and Layer

Sprinkle garlic powder, black pepper, and salt right over the chicken for a well-rounded base layer. Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then add the Parmesan cheese, mozzarella, minced garlic, and those dreamy cubes of cream cheese. There’s no need to stir just yet—the magic happens as everything slowly melds together.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection

Cover the crockpot and set it on low for 4 to 5 hours. As you go about your day, your kitchen will fill with the mouthwatering aroma of creamy garlic and savory chicken. By the end, the chicken will be perfectly cooked and deliciously tender.

Step 4: Shred and Return

Once the chicken is done, carefully remove it to a plate and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Toss the chicken back into the crockpot, letting it soak up all that velvety sauce for a few more minutes.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

While your chicken finishes, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain well—no one wants a watery sauce! This is key for soaking up every bit of cheesy goodness.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Stir the cooked pasta into the crockpot, making sure every piece is coated in the luscious sauce. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes on warm so the flavors can really come together. Just before serving, top with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for color and a hint of garden-fresh flavor.

How to Serve Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

Nothing elevates a bowl of this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta like a flurry of freshly chopped parsley or an extra dusting of grated Parmesan. The parsley adds a reassuring pop of color and freshness against all that creamy golden goodness, while the cheese provides even more savory depth.

Side Dishes

This pasta is rich and satisfying, so consider serving it with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette or simple roasted veggies like broccoli or zucchini. A loaf of warm, crusty bread is also an irresistible companion—perfect for mopping up every last drop of sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try spooning your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta into mini bowls or ramekins for a party appetizer. Or, serve it as a baked pasta—pile everything into a casserole dish, sprinkle with extra mozzarella, and broil until bubbly and golden on top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give everything a gentle stir before reheating so the sauce stays creamy and smooth.

Freezing

While cream-based sauces can sometimes change texture after freezing, you can absolutely freeze Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta if needed! Portion into freezer-safe containers, let cool fully, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

For silky results, reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen things up. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds, until piping hot.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more richness and stay wonderfully moist. Just make sure they’re boneless and skinless for easy shredding.

What type Main Course

Short, sturdy shapes like penne or rotini are perfect because they hold all the creamy sauce in their grooves, but feel free to use your favorite pasta or whatever you have on hand.

Can I make this dish lighter?

Yes! Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half and use reduced-fat cream cheese and mozzarella to lighten things up a bit, though the sauce may be a little less rich.

How do I add extra vegetables?

Stir in baby spinach or chopped sun-dried tomatoes during the last few minutes of cooking for extra color and flavor. You can also add steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms if you’d like.

Is Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta gluten-free?

It can be! Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double check that all other ingredients are gluten-free, and you’re good to go.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta becomes as much of a staple in your kitchen as it has in mine. It’s easy, it’s comforting, and it’s always met with big smiles around the table. Give it a try—you’ll fall in love with every creamy, garlicky bite!

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