Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Introduction

The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a rich and creamy dish perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken slow-cooked with garlic and Parmesan melds beautifully with pasta for a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare.

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 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 in the crockpot using two forks and stir to combine with the sauce.
5. Step 5: Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and add the cooked pasta to the crockpot.
6. Step 6: Pour in heavy cream or half-and-half, stirring 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

• For extra flavor, add vegetables like spinach or broccoli in the last hour of cooking.
• Use different pasta shapes such as fettuccine or bowtie to change up the texture.
• Include crushed red pepper flakes in the seasoning for a spicy kick.
• Swap chicken for turkey or shrimp, or use chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, frozen chicken breasts can be used, but increase the cooking time and ensure the chicken reaches 165°F for safety.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare all ingredients in advance and cook them in the crockpot when you’re ready for a hassle-free meal.

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 82 reviews

A rich and creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta made effortlessly with tender chicken breasts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and cream cheese, combined with pasta to create a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for dinner.

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

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main 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. Prepare 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 cheeses: Pour the chicken broth over the chicken in the crockpot. Add grated Parmesan cheese, softened cream cheese cubes, and minced garlic on top for rich, creamy flavor.
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: Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. Stir the shredded chicken into the creamy sauce, combining everything evenly.
5. Cook pasta: While the chicken finishes cooking, prepare the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
6. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the crockpot with the chicken and sauce. Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half and stir thoroughly until the pasta is coated and the sauce is creamy.
7. Serve: Serve the pasta warm, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired for added color and flavor.

Notes

• For extra flavor, add vegetables like spinach or broccoli during the last hour of cooking.
• You can use different pasta shapes such as fettuccine or bowtie based on preference.
• Add crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix if you want a slight kick of spice.
• If the sauce is too thick, thin it by stirring in more chicken broth or heavy cream until desired consistency is reached.
• This recipe can be adapted by swapping chicken with turkey, shrimp, or a vegetarian protein like chickpeas.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in microwave or stovetop until warm.
• Frozen chicken breasts can be used but will require additional cooking time to reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

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