The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that brings creamy, garlicky comfort to the table with minimal effort, The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Picture fork-tender chicken in a lush, cheesy sauce that clings perfectly to every piece of pasta, with just the right amount of garlic kick. This dish checks all the boxes—cozy, crowd-pleasing, and fabulously fuss-free since your trusty crockpot does nearly all the work. Trust me, it’s the ultimate indulgence after a busy day, and once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is that each ingredient truly shines, working together to create rich, layered flavor and irresistible creaminess. These staple items are easy to find and come together in the most delicious and effortless way.

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (1.5 lbs): These serve as a tender, protein-packed base that soaks up every bit of that savory sauce.
  • Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Adds a warm, mellow backbone of flavor that blends seamlessly into the creamy sauce.
  • Onion Powder (1 tsp): Brings subtle sweetness and savory depth that complements the garlic beautifully.
  • Black Pepper (½ tsp): Just enough heat to balance all that richness and tie the dish together.
  • Salt (½ tsp): Essential for drawing out every delicious nuance from the other ingredients.
  • Chicken Broth (2 cups): Provides moistness and layers of savory flavor that build the base of the sauce.
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese (1 cup): The star ingredient—melty, nutty, and full of that signature Parmesan bite.
  • Cream Cheese, Cubed and Softened (8 oz): Melts down to give the sauce its extra creamy, silky texture.
  • Minced Garlic (1 tbsp): For a pop of fresh, aromatic garlic that really makes the flavor sing.
  • Pasta of Choice (12 oz): Penne, rotini, or any favorite shape; this is your blank canvas for all that creamy sauce.
  • Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half (½ cup): The final touch for luscious, velvety richness.
  • Optional: Chopped Parsley or Extra Parmesan for Garnish: These simple toppings add color, freshness, and a little extra cheesy love.

How to Make The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Arrange the Chicken

Place your boneless, skinless chicken breasts right in the bottom of your crockpot. Layering the chicken first ensures it cooks evenly and absorbs all those mouthwatering flavors as the sauce develops.

Step 2: Season Generously

Sprinkle the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Don’t be shy—this seasoning lays the foundation for that amazing depth of flavor in The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe.

Step 3: Add Flavor-Boosting Ingredients

Pour chicken broth over the seasoned chicken, then add grated Parmesan, cubed cream cheese, and a big spoonful of minced garlic. Let it all cozy up together—these ingredients will melt and mingle into the most luxurious sauce as they cook.

Step 4: Let the Crockpot Do the Work

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or set it to high for 2 to 3 hours. When the chicken is tender enough to shred with a fork, you’ll know it’s ready. Your kitchen will smell incredible, making it so hard to wait!

Step 5: Shred and Combine

Use two forks to shred the cooked chicken right in the crockpot, then stir it into the cheesy sauce until everything is perfectly combined. This is where the magic happens—the chicken becomes ultra-juicy, and the sauce gets that classic, crave-worthy consistency.

Step 6: Cook and Add Your Pasta

While the chicken finishes cooking, prepare your pasta separately according to the package instructions. Drain it well, then add it to the crockpot, gently folding it into the sauce and shredded chicken. Get ready for maximum creamy goodness in every bite!

Step 7: Finish with Cream

Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half and give everything one last good stir. The sauce will become extra silky and cling beautifully to the pasta—peek in and you’ll spot the transformation.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle generous portions into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley or extra Parmesan. The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is officially ready to devour—grab your fork and dig in!

How to Serve The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Sprinkle each serving with freshly grated Parmesan for extra creaminess and a nutty finish, then add vibrant chopped parsley for freshness and color. Even a hint of cracked black pepper on top can elevate the whole experience—simple touches, but so impactful.

Side Dishes

This pasta is a scene-stealer all on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some buttery garlic bread takes it to a whole new level. For extra veggies, think about steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus for a pop of color and nutrition next to all that creamy decadence.

Creative Ways to Present

For family-style fun, serve it straight from the crockpot at the center of your table, letting everyone scoop their own. Want to impress guests? Twirl the pasta onto plates with tongs and top artistically with parsley and shaved Parmesan for pure restaurant-worthy flair. Hosting leftovers? Pile it into a toasted sub roll for a scrumptious chicken parmesan sandwich!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce remains creamy and the flavors deepen, making for a fantastic next-day lunch or dinner.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully—just place portions in freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space for expansion. The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe will keep for up to two months frozen. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen up the sauce, then gently warm in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave. Stir occasionally until fully heated through. It’ll taste just as dreamy as when it was first made!

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully as a richer, juicier alternative to chicken breasts in The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe. Just trim any excess fat and follow the same method.

What pasta shape works best for this recipe?

Honestly, any pasta you love will work—penne and rotini hold the sauce beautifully, but fettuccine and spaghetti are also great choices. Feel free to get creative and use what you have on hand.

Can I make it without a crockpot?

Yes! Simply cook the chicken in a large pot on the stovetop until tender, then add the remaining ingredients and simmer until the sauce is creamy and the flavors meld together. It won’t have that slow-cooked magic, but it’ll still be irresistibly delicious.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Definitely—just use your favorite gluten-free pasta, and double-check that your chicken broth and Parmesan are gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally safe!

How can I make this dish a bit lighter?

For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk. While it may be a tad less rich, you’ll still get all those incredible garlic Parmesan flavors.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a cozy, rewarding meal the whole family will adore, don’t wait another minute—The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is pure comfort in a bowl. Give it a try and discover just how easy and satisfying weeknight dinners can be. I can’t wait for you to dig in and make this recipe a beloved staple at your table!

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The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe


  • Author: Ella
  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (on low) or 2 hours 15 minutes (on high)
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Calorie

Description

Indulge in the creamy, garlicky goodness of this slow-cooked chicken pasta dish. Tender chicken, savory Parmesan, and rich cream cheese come together for a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 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

For the Sauce:

  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed and softened
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic

For the Pasta:

  • 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. Place the chicken: Put chicken breasts in the crockpot and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Add ingredients: Pour chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and minced garlic over the chicken.
  3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until chicken is tender.
  4. Shred the chicken: Shred the chicken in the crockpot and combine with the sauce.
  5. Cook pasta: Cook pasta separately, then add to the crockpot.
  6. Add cream: Pour in heavy cream or half-and-half, stir until well coated and creamy.
  7. Serve: Serve warm, topped with extra Parmesan or parsley.

Notes

  • You can add cooked vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.
  • Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
  • For a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water and stir into the sauce before serving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours on low or 2 hours on high
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 430 kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 105mg

Keywords: Crockpot, Slow Cooker, Chicken Pasta, Garlic Parmesan, Creamy Pasta

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