If you are craving a comforting and creamy dinner that practically makes itself while you relax, the Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish combines tender, slow-cooked chicken with a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce and perfectly cooked pasta to create a meal bursting with flavor. Every bite is rich, cheesy, and satisfyingly hearty, making it a favorite for busy weeknights or cozy weekends alike. With simple ingredients and fuss-free steps, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for an effortlessly impressive dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe focuses on accessible and essential ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating the delicious layers of flavor and texture in the dish. From the tender chicken to the creamy cheeses and savory seasonings, every element is carefully chosen to bring balance and depth.
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Provides the protein base and becomes tender after slow cooking.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances natural flavors and seasons the chicken perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle touch of heat and depth.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a fragrant herbal note that complements the creamy sauce.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic: Intensifies the rich garlic flavor at the heart of this dish.
- 1 (16 oz) bottle garlic Parmesan sauce: The star ingredient that envelops the chicken in a cheesy, flavorful sauce.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Keeps the sauce moist and adds savory richness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty bite melting smoothly into the sauce.
- 8 ounces cream cheese (cubed): Brings luxurious creaminess and richness to the pasta.
- 12 ounces uncooked pasta (rotini or penne): Holds the sauce beautifully with its twists and tubes.
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of green and a subtle herbaceous note.
How to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by greasing your slow cooker to prevent sticking, then place the chicken breasts right on the bottom. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning evenly over the chicken. This seasoning blend is key for building layers of flavor that will infuse the meat as it slowly cooks.
Step 2: Add the Garlic and Sauces
Next, add the minced garlic for that unmistakable savory punch, then pour in the garlic Parmesan sauce and chicken broth. Gently stir these together so the chicken is well coated. This combination creates a flavorful cooking liquid that tenderizes the chicken while developing that luscious sauce base.
Step 3: Slow Cook Until Tender
Cover and cook your chicken on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. This slow, steady heat transforms the chicken into fall-apart tender goodness, soaking up all the garlicky, cheesy sauce flavors.
Step 4: Shred and Enrich the Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked, shred it right in the slow cooker using two forks. Stir in the cream cheese cubes and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce is melted, creamy, and smooth. This step gives the dish its signature velvety texture and indulgent flavor.
Step 5: Cook and Combine the Pasta
While the sauce is finishing, cook your pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and add it directly to the slow cooker, stirring everything to combine. Allow the dish to rest on the ‘warm’ setting for 5 to 10 minutes, letting the pasta soak up the rich sauce and flavors to perfection.
How to Serve Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a bright, colorful contrast that not only looks inviting but adds a touch of freshness to cut through the creamy richness of the dish. For an extra twist, a little dash of crushed red pepper flakes can add a hint of heat.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads to balance the heaviness, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is also excellent for sopping up every last bit of that dreamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this vibrant meal family-style straight from the slow cooker for a cozy, casual vibe, or plate individual portions garnished with extra Parmesan shavings and fresh herbs for an elegant touch. You can even turn it into a pasta bake by transferring to a casserole dish, topping with mozzarella, and broiling until bubbly and golden.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after resting, making it just as delightful the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers by placing portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. It’s best to freeze the pasta and sauce separately from the chicken if possible, to preserve texture. Frozen portions will maintain quality for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a covered skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce as needed. Stir occasionally to ensure it warms evenly without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken in the crockpot?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just add it to the slow cooker with the sauce towards the end and reduce the cook time accordingly to avoid overcooking.
What pasta works best with this recipe?
Short, sturdy pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or rigatoni work best because they hold onto the creamy sauce perfectly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
This recipe relies heavily on dairy for its creamy texture. For dairy-free or vegan versions, you could experiment with plant-based cream cheese and cheese substitutes, though the flavor and texture will be somewhat different.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and sauce step early and refrigerate it before adding pasta. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve to avoid it becoming mushy.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the seasoning for a spicy kick that elevates the garlic Parmesan flavors.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about coming home to a warm slow cooker filled with creamy, dreamy pasta and tender chicken. The Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe combines ease, comfort, and bold flavors into one unforgettable meal that feels homemade and indulgent every time. Give it a try, and you just might find your new favorite weeknight dinner!
Print
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
A creamy, comforting Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe that combines tender slow-cooked chicken with rich garlic Parmesan sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. This easy and flavorful meal comes together effortlessly in a slow cooker, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 (16 oz) bottle garlic Parmesan sauce (such as Buffalo Wild Wings or similar)
- 1 cup chicken broth
Cheese and Pasta
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
- 12 ounces uncooked pasta (rotini or penne)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the bottom of your slow cooker to prevent sticking. Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom.
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning evenly over the chicken breasts. Add the minced garlic on top.
- Add Sauces and Broth: Pour the bottle of garlic Parmesan sauce and chicken broth over the chicken. Gently stir the mixture to coat the chicken with seasonings and sauce.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender enough to shred.
- Shred the Chicken: Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker for a hearty texture.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the cubed cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth, creating a creamy sauce base.
- Cook the Pasta: Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker and stir well to mix with the chicken and creamy sauce.
- Let Flavors Blend: Allow the mixture to sit on warm for 5–10 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired, then serve warm and enjoy this rich and savory dish.
Notes
- For extra richness, stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream along with the cheeses for a more decadent sauce.
- You can substitute pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time; if so, reduce slow cook time accordingly and add shredded chicken towards the end.
- Use rotini or penne pasta as they hold the sauce well and provide good texture.
- If preferred, freshly grated Parmesan offers better flavor than pre-grated.
