Busy weeknights call for comforting meals that practically make themselves. Meet your new favorite: Crockpot Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta. This incredibly easy recipe delivers a burst of flavor with minimal effort, making it a perfect family dinner solution. Enjoy tender chicken swimming in a rich, creamy, and wonderfully garlicky Parmesan sauce, all thanks to your slow cooker. It is truly a set-it-and-forget-it dish!
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Chicken Pasta Recipe
This slow cooker chicken pasta recipe simplifies dinner without sacrificing taste. It’s perfect for busy parents and beginners alike.
- Effortless Cooking: Simply add ingredients to your crockpot and let it do the work. Slow cookers are renowned for their ability to infuse flavors and tenderness into dishes, making them a kitchen staple for busy home cooks, as detailed in this article about the benefits of slow cooker cooking.
- Rich & Creamy Sauce: Enjoy a deeply flavorful, garlicky Parmesan sauce that coats every bite.
- Tender, Juicy Chicken: The slow cooking method ensures perfectly shredded, moist chicken.
- Minimal Active Prep: Spend just minutes assembling, then relax while dinner cooks.
- Family Favorite: This comforting dish is a crowd-pleaser, even for picky eaters.
- Great for Meal Prep: Easily make a large batch for delicious leftovers throughout the week.
Ingredients
Creating delicious chicken pasta crockpot recipes starts with simple, wholesome ingredients. This recipe calls for a handful of items you likely already have or can easily find at the grocery store.
- 12 ounces Parmesan garlic sauce: Your favorite jarred variety works wonderfully.
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: Fresh or thawed for best results.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cut into pieces: Full-fat is recommended for maximum creaminess.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Freshly grated offers superior melt and flavor.
- 10 ounces dry pasta, cooked and drained: Rotini or penne are excellent choices.
- Fresh parsley and red pepper flakes, for garnish: Adds color and a hint of spice.
Notes & Substitutions
The right ingredients make all the difference in this delicious crockpot meal. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook perfectly, but chicken thighs can add even more moisture and flavor if you prefer. Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese will give your sauce a smoother texture and richer taste compared to pre-shredded varieties. For the pasta, any short shape like penne, ziti, or cavatappi works well. You can use your favorite store-bought Parmesan garlic sauce for convenience, or try a homemade version if you have extra time. Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before adding it to the crockpot; it helps it melt smoothly into the sauce.
Equipment
Gathering your tools before you begin makes cooking a breeze. You only need a few essential items for this creamy crockpot chicken and pasta dish.
- Slow cooker (crockpot): A 6-quart or larger is ideal for this recipe.
- Large pot: For cooking your dry pasta separately to perfection.
- Shredding forks or tongs: To easily shred the tender chicken after cooking.
Instructions
This chicken pasta crockpot recipe is incredibly straightforward, perfect for a busy weeknight. Just follow these simple steps for a hearty and flavorful meal.
Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot. Lightly spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Step 2: Place the Chicken. Arrange the boneless, skinless chicken breasts evenly in the bottom of the prepared crockpot.
Step 3: Pour the Sauce. Carefully pour the entire bottle of Parmesan garlic sauce over the chicken breasts. Ensure the chicken is well-coated.
Step 4: Add Cheeses. Distribute the pieces of cream cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and sauce mixture.
Step 5: Cook Thoroughly. Cover the crockpot with its lid. Cook on the low setting for 5-6 hours, or if you are in a hurry, cook on the high setting for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be very tender and easy to shred. For optimal safety, ensure that all poultry, including chicken cooked in a slow cooker, reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F (73.9°C).
Step 6: Shred and Stir. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot onto a cutting board. Shred the chicken using two forks or tongs. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it thoroughly to combine with the creamy sauce. This ensures every piece of chicken is coated.
Step 7: Cook the Pasta. While the chicken is cooking or during the last 30 minutes, prepare your dry pasta according to the package instructions. Cook it to al dente for the best texture, then drain well.
Step 8: Combine and Serve. Add the cooked and drained pasta directly into the crockpot with the chicken and sauce mixture. Stir everything gently to combine until the pasta is fully coated. Following these steps ensures a perfect chicken pasta crockpot recipe that everyone will love.
Step 9: Garnish. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of color and mild heat. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Mastering slow cooker pasta is simple with these pointers.
Pro Tips
- Always ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature; it melts seamlessly into the sauce.
- If your sauce seems too thick, adjust its consistency by stirring in a tablespoon or two of warm chicken broth or milk.
- Enhance the overall flavor by adding a touch of lemon zest or extra fresh herbs like thyme or basil at the end.
- For an added layer of flavor and depth, consider browning the chicken lightly in a skillet before placing it in the crockpot.
- Do not overcook the pasta; cook it separately to al dente and add it just before serving to prevent a mushy texture.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Sauce too thick: Stir in a splash of chicken broth or milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Sauce too thin: Cook uncovered briefly on high for 15-20 minutes, or stir in an extra tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Chicken too dry: Avoid overcooking by checking for doneness at the lower end of the cooking time range. Chicken is done when it shreds easily.
- Flavor too strong/garlicky: Dilute the sauce slightly with more chicken broth or a can of cream of chicken soup to mellow the intensity.
Serving Suggestions, Storage & Variations
This versatile creamy crockpot chicken pasta dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and is easy to customize.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty crockpot Parmesan garlic chicken pasta alongside some crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up every drop of the delicious sauce. A simple fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a nice contrast and balances the richness. You can also offer a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for added nutrition.
Storage
Store any leftover chicken pasta crockpot recipes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use either the microwave or stovetop. If the pasta seems a little dry, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to help bring back its creaminess.
Variations
Get creative with your creamy crockpot chicken pasta! Stir in cooked spinach, sliced mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes during the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra vegetables and flavor. Experiment with different cheeses, like stirring in some shredded mozzarella or sharp cheddar for a unique twist. Cooked sausage or shrimp instead of chicken, adjusting cooking times as needed. A touch of Alfredo sauce can also be added for extra richness and a slightly different flavor profile.
Nutrition
This Crockpot Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta provides a hearty meal, rich in protein and carbohydrates. While specific values vary based on ingredients and brands used, it generally offers a fulfilling and energy-rich option for dinner.
| Component | Amount (per serving, approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 650-750 |
| Protein | 45-55g |
| Fat | 25-35g |
| Carbohydrates | 50-60g |
| Fiber | 3-5g |
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an approximation and can vary significantly based on specific ingredients, brands, and serving sizes. It is provided for informational purposes only.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Many home cooks wonder about customizing chicken pasta crockpot recipes. Here are some common questions.
- Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, you can. Simply add frozen chicken to the crockpot, but increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours on low, or 30-60 minutes on high.
- Can I use different pasta? Absolutely! Short pasta shapes like penne, ziti, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni work well in this recipe.
- Can I freeze this dish? Freezing is not recommended for best results. The pasta can become mushy and the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing and reheating.
- What if the sauce is too rich/garlicky? You can dilute the sauce by adding a few tablespoons of chicken broth or milk, or try stirring in a can of cream of chicken soup.
- Can I make this dairy-free? Yes, you can. Use dairy-free cream cheese, a plant-based Parmesan alternative, and ensure your Parmesan garlic sauce is dairy-free.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta truly lives up to its promise of being easy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. It’s the perfect recipe for busy individuals or anyone craving a comforting meal with minimal fuss. Your family will adore the tender chicken and rich, creamy sauce, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. Give this recipe a try tonight and discover your new favorite weeknight dinner. We encourage you to share your comments, ratings, and experiences below! Enjoy creating more delicious chicken pasta crockpot recipes with confidence.