Why You’ll Adore This Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a simple yet satisfying meal, look no further. This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not only delightful but also incredibly easy to make. The magic of a slow cooker allows flavors to blend beautifully, resulting in tender chicken enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s comfort food at its best and perfect for any day of the week!

Crafting Your Delicious Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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

Directions

1. Start by placing the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Sprinkle them with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour the chicken broth over the chicken, and then add the grated Parmesan cheese, cubed cream cheese, and minced garlic.
3. Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken becomes fork-tender.
4. Once the chicken is cooked, shred it right in the crockpot using two forks and mix it with the sauce.
5. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, drain it, and mix it with the chicken mixture in the crockpot.
6. Finally, pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half and stir everything together until the pasta is well coated and creamy.
7. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley if you like!

Serving Suggestions for Your Dish

This creamy chicken pasta is perfect as a standalone meal. Serve it in bowls, adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or an extra dusting of Parmesan on top for flair. Pair it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete dining experience!

Storing Your Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which is a great idea!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The pasta can last for about 3 to 4 days. Just make sure to reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Tips for Perfecting Your Dish

• For added pizzazz, you can toss in some veggies like spinach or broccoli right before serving for extra nutrition.
• If you prefer a spicier version, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Experiment with different types of pasta, like fusilli or farfalle, for a fun twist!

Flavor Variations to Consider

You can easily customize this dish! Try adding sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean flair. Or mix in some cooked bacon or sausage for an extra hearty meal.

Nutritional Information

While specific nutritional values may vary based on the exact ingredients and brands you use, a typical serving is likely to provide:

• Calories: 600-700
• Protein: 40-45g
• Carbohydrates: 50-60g
• Fat: 30-35g

Family-Friendly Serving Suggestions

This dish is a hit with kids and adults alike. Consider serving it with a side of steamed veggies or a simple cucumber salad to balance things out. Don’t forget a glass of iced tea or lemonade to make it extra special!

Perfect Pairing Ideas

Complement your meal with:

• A fresh garden salad
• Garlic bread or breadsticks
• A glass of white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay for the adults

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that you might need to add an extra hour to the cooking time.

2. How can I make this dish healthier?
You could use whole grain or vegetable-based pasta and reduce the amount of cream cheese or use a lighter version.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to the cooking step ahead of time. Just pop it in the fridge and cook it the next day.

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This easy and satisfying Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta features tender chicken in a creamy, cheesy sauce, perfect for any weeknight dinner.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 650 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts Use thawed chicken for best results.
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 cups chicken broth Low sodium optional.
• 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

 

Preparation

• Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and sprinkle them with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
• Pour the chicken broth over the chicken, then add the grated Parmesan cheese, cubed cream cheese, and minced garlic.
• Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is fork-tender.
• Once cooked, shred the chicken in the crockpot using two forks and mix it with the sauce.

Cooking Pasta

• Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain it.
• Mix the cooked pasta with the chicken mixture in the crockpot.

Final Touch

• Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half and stir until the pasta is well coated and creamy.
• Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

You can add veggies like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition. For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or customize with sun-dried tomatoes or cooked bacon.

Keyword Comfort Food, Crockpot Pasta, Garlic Parmesan Chicken, Slow Cooker Meals