Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that’s both comforting and effortless, you’ve come to the right place! This Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a family favorite in my home. It brings together tender, shredded chicken and a luscious garlic-Parmesan cream sauce with perfectly cooked pasta—all made in one pot. You can toss everything in your crockpot, set it, and forget it! It’s perfect for busy evenings or family gatherings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

This dish is not just simple to prepare; it also feels indulgent and satisfying, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Plus, you can easily customize it with your favorite pasta shape or toppings, which makes every serving feel special!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Just toss all the ingredients into the crockpot and let it do the work while you relax or take care of other things.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: With its creamy sauce and comforting flavors, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Since it cooks slowly, you can prepare it early in the day and have a warm meal waiting for you when evening rolls around.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a rich taste that will make everyone come back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful dish, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients. They come together beautifully to create that creamy texture and savory flavor we all crave!

For the Chicken

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 cups chicken broth

For the Sauce

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Pasta

• 8 oz uncooked pasta (elbow macaroni or shells recommended)

Optional Toppings

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily tweak it to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless turkey breasts or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist!
• Change up the pasta: Feel free to use any pasta shape you love—penne or rotini would work wonderfully too.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or peas during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to kick up the heat!

How to Make Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing your chicken breasts flat on the bottom of your crockpot. This will ensure they cook evenly and soak up all that delicious broth.

Step 2: Season

Sprinkle minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper over the chicken evenly. These spices are what bring out wonderful flavors in the dish as they infuse into the chicken.

Step 3: Add Broth

Pour chicken broth over the chicken until it’s fully covered. This adds moisture and richness that will enhance every bite of your pasta later on.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. This slow cooking method makes sure your chicken becomes tender enough to shred easily.

Step 5: Shred Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it with two forks. Return that deliciously tender shredded chicken back into the pot—this is where all those flavors meld together!

Step 6: Add Cream Cheese & Parmesan

Stir in softened cream cheese and shredded Parmesan cheese. Mixing these into your sauce creates a rich and creamy base that’s simply irresistible.

Step 7: Add Pasta

Stir in uncooked pasta so that it’s submerged in that tasty sauce. This step is key because as it cooks, it’ll absorb all those yummy flavors.

Step 8: Cook Pasta

Cover again and cook on high for about 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This ensures your pasta cooks perfectly without getting mushy.

Optional Finish

For an extra cheesy topping, sprinkle mozzarella cheese over everything before serving. Let it melt under the lid for a few minutes—it’s such a treat!

Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil along with red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm and enjoy every delightful bite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Creating the perfect Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is easy with a few simple tips to enhance your cooking experience and the dish itself.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese can significantly elevate the flavor of your dish, making it taste homemade and delicious.

• Adjust the seasoning: Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasoning! Each brand of chicken broth varies in saltiness, so adding more Italian seasoning or pepper as you go can help achieve the perfect balance.

• Choose your pasta wisely: Some pasta shapes hold sauce better than others. Opt for shapes like shells or elbow macaroni, which capture that creamy goodness in every bite!

• Keep an eye on cooking times: Cooking times may vary based on your crockpot model. If you notice that your pasta isn’t quite tender after 30 minutes on high, give it an extra 10 minutes and check again.

• Make it a meal prep winner: This recipe stores well in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat leftovers with a splash of chicken broth to bring back that creamy texture.

How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This dish not only delights with its comforting flavors but also presents beautifully when served right. Here are some ideas for serving up this creamy delight!

Garnishes

• Chopped herbs: Fresh parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens each bite.
• Red pepper flakes: A sprinkle of these adds just the right amount of heat, enhancing the overall flavor profile without overpowering it.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing, warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up all that rich creamy sauce.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and a healthy crunch, complementing the richness of the pasta.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with a tangy dressing balances out the heaviness of the pasta, making for a well-rounded meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots add warmth and additional nutrients to your dinner table.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta will be an absolute hit at any gathering or family dinner! Enjoy every comforting bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is perfect for meal prep and can save you time throughout the week. You can easily store leftovers or make a big batch to enjoy later!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen pasta in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta without cream cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative or omit it entirely for a lighter version. The dish will still be creamy from the Parmesan cheese.

How do I customize my Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This adds flavor and nutrition while enhancing the dish’s texture!

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe! They’ll stay juicy and tender while providing great flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta becomes a staple in your kitchen! It’s not just easy to make but also incredibly comforting and satisfying. Enjoy making it for yourself or your loved ones, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings and sides. Happy cooking!