Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a warm and comforting dish that fills your home with amazing smells while it cooks. Using a slow cooker, this recipe allows you to prepare a delicious meal with minimal effort. Simply place your ingredients in the crockpot and let the magic happen! This dish combines tender chicken with creamy garlic Parmesan sauce and pasta, making it a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weekday dinner or a weekend meal with friends, this dish is the perfect choice.
Why Make This Recipe
There are several reasons why you should consider making Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. First, it is incredibly easy to prepare. Just throw everything into the slow cooker, and you can focus on other tasks while it cooks. This makes it a great option for busy families or anyone with a hectic schedule.
Second, the flavors in this dish are wonderfully rich and satisfying. Garlic and Parmesan cheese combine to create a creamy sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. The chicken becomes tender and falls apart, providing a warm and fulfilling bite in every forkful.
Lastly, this dish is versatile. You can easily adapt the recipe by changing the pasta type or adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. You can also make it mild or spicy, depending on your family’s taste preferences. This means you can enjoy it in different ways, making it a staple in your recipe collection.
How to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Making Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is simple and straightforward. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious meal that everyone will love. Here’s how to get started.
Ingredients
To make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, you will need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces pasta (such as penne or rotini)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Prepare the Chicken: Start by placing the chicken breasts in the crockpot. You can use fresh or frozen chicken, but fresh will cook faster.
Add the Broth and Seasoning: Pour the chicken broth over the chicken breasts. This will keep the chicken moist as it cooks. Then, add the minced garlic, salt, and pepper to taste. Make sure everything is well mixed and coated with the broth.
Cook the Chicken: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You want the chicken to cook until it is fully done and easy to shred with a fork.
Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the crockpot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until everything is combined, creating a rich and creamy sauce.
Cook the Pasta: While the sauce is thickening, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. When done, drain the pasta.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the crockpot, mixing it well with the creamy chicken sauce. Make sure every piece of pasta is coated in that delicious sauce.
Serve: Serve the dish warm in bowls. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top will add a nice touch for color and flavor.
How to Serve Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is perfect for any meal. Serve it warm for dinner alongside a fresh salad or some garlic bread. This dish can also be a great option for potlucks or family gatherings. The warm, creamy sauce and tender chicken will keep everyone asking for seconds!
If you want to spice things up, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes before serving to give it an extra kick. You can also offer additional grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who love cheese.
If you have leftovers, it can be eaten as is or repurposed as a filling for homemade burritos or wraps. The creamy sauce and tender chicken work beautifully as a filling!
How to Store Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
If you have leftovers or would like to prep this dish in advance, storing it correctly is essential. To store Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, follow these simple steps:
Cool Down: Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
Use the Right Container: Place the pasta in an airtight container. Make sure it’s sealed well to avoid air exposure.
Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it within a few days. It can last 3 to 4 days.
Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheat: When ready to eat, thaw the pasta overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat in a microwave-safe dish or saucepan. You might need to add a touch of milk or cream to bring back the creamy texture.
Tips to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Making this dish even more enjoyable is easy with a few extra tips:
Choose the Right Pasta: While penne and rotini are great options, feel free to use your favorite pasta. Just ensure it can hold the sauce well.
Add Veggies: For added nutrition, consider tossing in some vegetables like spinach, peas, or broccoli during the last hour of cooking. This not only increases the flavor but also makes the meal more balanced.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or garlic depending on your preferences.
Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
Make It Spicy: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you love a little heat.
Variation
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is flexible and can be modified to suit your taste. Here are some variations you can try:
Chicken and Broccoli: Add fresh or frozen broccoli florets in the last hour of cooking. The broccoli will add freshness and color to the dish.
Creamy Tomato Sauce: Substitute half of the heavy cream with marinara sauce for a tomato-based version that is still creamy.
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with chickpeas or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
Spicy Southwest Twist: Add diced jalapeños and taco seasoning for a spicy, Southwest version of this dish.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, cooking times may vary slightly. Ensure they are cooked fully before shredding.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Cook it the day you plan to serve it for the freshest taste.
What can I serve with this pasta dish?
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta pairs well with side salads, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. You could also serve it with a light vinaigrette on the side.
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta brings together simplicity, comfort, and flavor in a delightful meal. Whether you are a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves delicious food, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table. Enjoy your cooking!
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- Pour the chicken broth over the chicken breasts, then add the minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully done.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain the pasta once done.
- Add the cooked pasta to the crockpot and mix well with the creamy chicken sauce.
- Serve the dish warm in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley.