Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious recipe to bring your family together, then let me introduce you to my favorite comfort food: Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. This dish is a warm hug in a bowl! With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when cooking feels like a chore. You just set it and forget it, leaving you more time to unwind after a long day.

This recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also versatile enough for family gatherings or cozy dinners with friends. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or bringing it to a potluck, everyone will rave about the comforting goodness of this meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation: With just a few minutes of prep time, you can toss everything in the crockpot and relax!
• Family-friendly flavors: The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• One-pot convenience: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal and company.
• Customizable ingredients: Feel free to use whatever pasta shape or toppings you love best!
• Perfect for meal prep: Make it ahead of time and have delicious leftovers ready for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Each one contributes to the rich and creamy flavor that makes this dish so special.

For the Chicken Base

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

Seasoning

• 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)
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)

Variations

This Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe is flexible and can be easily adapted to fit your preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey breast or even chickpeas for a plant-based option.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like Gouda or feta for unique flavors.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers during the last 30 minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add some diced jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes!

How to Make Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken breasts flat on the bottom of your crockpot. This ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy throughout the process.

Step 2: Season

Sprinkle minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken. These spices will infuse flavor into every bite as they cook.

Step 3: Add Broth

Pour chicken broth over the chicken until it’s fully covered. The broth adds moisture and richness that makes this dish so comforting.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. The goal is to achieve tender chicken that shreds easily—trust me; it’s worth the wait!

Step 5: Shred Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back into the crockpot to soak up all that delicious sauce.

Step 6: Add Cream Cheese & Parmesan

Stir in softened cream cheese and shredded Parmesan cheese. Mixing these in will create a luscious creamy sauce that envelops everything perfectly.

Step 7: Add Pasta

Stir in your uncooked pasta until it’s submerged in that cheesy goodness. This is where things really start to come together!

Step 8: Cook Pasta

Cover again and cook on high for 30 to 45 minutes until the pasta reaches your desired texture. Stir occasionally—this helps everything meld beautifully.

Step 9: Optional Finish

For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top before serving. Let it melt beautifully while you get ready to dig in!

Step 10: Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil along with some red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. Serve warm and enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Making this creamy dish is a breeze, but a few tips can take it from delicious to absolutely unforgettable!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese can significantly enhance the flavor of your dish, giving it that homemade touch.

• Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to tweak the amount of Italian seasoning or add a dash of your favorite herbs to personalize the taste to your liking.

• Choose the right pasta shape: While elbow macaroni and shells are recommended, experimenting with different pasta shapes can add an interesting texture and visual appeal to your dish.

• Make it ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble everything in the crockpot the night before and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

• Leftover magic: If you have any leftovers, they make for a fantastic lunch! Just reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.

How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

When it comes to serving this delightful dish, presentation is key! Here are some ideas to make your meal even more inviting.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkling fresh parsley or basil on top adds vibrant color and freshness.
• Red pepper flakes: A pinch of red pepper flakes not only enhances flavor but also adds a lovely pop of color.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the creamy pasta beautifully and is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.

• Steamed broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds a nutritious crunch that balances out the richness of the pasta.

• Caesar salad: A light Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast with its crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing, making it an ideal sidekick.

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring in added nutrients and color to your plate, making your meal feel even more wholesome.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta will be an instant hit at your dinner table! Enjoy every comforting bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance and store it for later, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

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

• Let the dish cool down before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. For best quality, consume sooner.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For stovetop reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce while warming.

FAQs

Have questions about your Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta? We’ve got you covered!

Can I use other types of pasta in this recipe?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni and shells are recommended, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the pasta type.

How do I make Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap out regular pasta for gluten-free pasta. Ensure that your chicken broth also meets gluten-free standards.

Can I add vegetables to my Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

Yes! Adding vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers can enhance both flavor and nutrition. Just toss them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta a try—it’s such a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any dinner table! With its rich flavors and easy prep, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Remember, cooking is all about sharing love through food, so enjoy every moment of making this delightful meal. Happy cooking!