Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful, one-pot meal that will become a staple in your household. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines tender chicken, a rich garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, and pasta into a comforting dish that’s satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it while your crockpot does the work.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a rich sauce that elevates the simple ingredients to gourmet status.
• Versatile Customization: Use your favorite pasta shape or add in vegetables for an extra nutritional boost.
• Family-Friendly Meal: This dish is loved by both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners.
• One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy minimal cleanup with everything cooked together in one pot.

Tools and Preparation

To make this creamy crockpot chicken pasta, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will ensure everything runs smoothly during preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Measuring cups
• Mixing spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: The heart of this recipe, allowing for hands-off cooking that results in tender meat and flavorful sauce.
• Mixing spoon: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly to create the creamy sauce without lumps.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken and Sauce

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

For 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)

For Garnish

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

How to Make Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts flat on the bottom of your crockpot.

Step 2: Season

Sprinkle minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken.

Step 3: Add Broth

Pour chicken broth over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully covered.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds.

Step 5: Shred Chicken

Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.

Step 6: Add Cream Cheese & Parmesan

Stir in the softened cream cheese and shredded Parmesan. Mix until the cheese melts and forms a creamy sauce.

Step 7: Add Pasta

Stir in the uncooked pasta, making sure it’s submerged in the sauce.

Step 8: Cook Pasta

Cover and cook on high for 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked to your liking.

Step 9: Optional Finish

Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top, cover, and let it melt for a few minutes before serving.

Step 10: Serve

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm.

This Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Enjoy this hearty dish with family or friends any night of the week!

How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Serving Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is all about enhancing the experience. This dish is versatile and can be complemented with various toppings and sides that elevate its flavor. Here are some serving suggestions to consider.

Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley or Basil: Sprinkle fresh herbs on top for a burst of flavor and color.

Cheese Toppings

• Mozzarella Cheese: Add shredded mozzarella on top right before serving for a melty finish.

Spicy Kick

• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds an exciting spice.

Extra Creaminess

• More Parmesan Cheese: Grate additional Parmesan over the dish for an extra cheesy touch.

Accompanying Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Salad Pairing

• Garden Salad: A simple mixed greens salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.

How to Perfect Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Creating the perfect Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta involves a few key techniques. Follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality chicken and cheeses make all the difference in flavor.

• Adjust Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking time, especially when adding pasta, to prevent it from becoming mushy.

• Shred Chicken Properly: Use two forks to shred the chicken evenly for a better texture throughout the dish.

• Customize Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the garlic and Italian seasoning according to your taste preferences for a personalized flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Complementing your Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with side dishes can enhance your meal’s overall enjoyment. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious and colorful addition that pairs well with creamy pasta.

2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add crunch and depth of flavor to your plate.

3. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings crisp romaine and creamy dressing that contrasts beautifully with pasta.

4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: For extra comfort, serve alongside smooth garlic mashed potatoes.

5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and garlic makes a delightful appetizer or side.

6. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides freshness and balances out the richness of the pasta dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, especially with a crockpot. Here are some common mistakes to watch for when making Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland pasta. Always sprinkle salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning evenly for maximum flavor.

• Overcrowding the crockpot: Packing too much into the pot can prevent even cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts of ingredients to ensure everything cooks thoroughly.

• Using pre-cooked pasta: Adding cooked pasta will result in mushy noodles. Use uncooked pasta as instructed for the best texture and flavor.

• Not shredding the chicken well: Leaving large chunks of chicken can affect the creaminess of the dish. Shred it finely for a smoother sauce distribution.

• Ignoring cooking times: Not adhering to suggested cooking times can lead to undercooked or overcooked ingredients. Follow timing closely for perfect results.

• Forgetting about garnishes: Skipping toppings like fresh herbs or cheese can make your dish less appealing. Don’t skip these final touches for added flavor and presentation.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• Transfer to a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.

• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring occasionally until heated through.

• Stovetop: Reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta that may help you prepare this delicious dish.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can replace chicken with turkey, beef, or lamb based on your preference.

How do I make it vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or shells work best as they hold onto the creamy sauce well.

How long does it take to cook?

The total cooking time is approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes, including pasta cooking time.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in vegetables like spinach or peas towards the end of cooking for added nutrition and texture.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe stores well and is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it perfect for any night of the week. Customize it with your favorite veggies or pasta shape, and enjoy a comforting meal that everyone will love!