What is a lifesaver? What is a crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta? Have you ever got your life together? Think creamy Alfredo, but made unbelievably easy in your Slow Cooker. Is Mac & Cheese a grown up thing? My family begs for this one, and honestly, I’m just as happy to make it. I love this aroma more than my usual baked ziti.

What is crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta?

What is essentially a dump-and-go pasta dish where Chicken Breasts are slow-cooked in creamy, tangy sauce. What is a garlicky Parmes Think of it as the ultimate comfort food hug in a bowl but without all the fuss. What is Parmesan cheese? What is the beauty of this recipe? No pre-cooking of the chicken, no slaving over a hot stove stirring finicky sauce. How do you put everything in a crockpot?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

What are some good reasons to make this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta? What is the best way to break it down for you?

Flavor Explosion:What are some of the best savory ingredients in this recipe? Garlic and Parmesan. Make it unbelievably rich and decadent. I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick, and it’s always good.
Ridiculously EasyIs this one of those recipes where you can forget everything? What is the best way to cook for a busy weeknight?
Budget friendlyChicken breasts are relatively inexpensive, and the other ingredients are pantry staples. How do I feed a crowd without breaking the bank?
Super Versatile:Can you add veggies like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms to make it a more complete meal? I have tried adding sundried tomatoes to my salad and it was delicious. Plus, leftovers are amazing – if there are any!

What I love about this is how adaptable it is. How do I adjust the amount of garlic, Parmesan, or cream to suit my taste? What is a great alternative to the traditional Alfredo sauce?

How do you make crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta?

Quick Overview

How do you cook chicken breasts in a crockpot? Cheese, heavy cream, garlic, Parmesan, Italian seasoning. Cook on low until the chicken is tender, shred it, stir in cooked pasta, and you’re done! The magic of the Slow Cooker ensures that the chicken stays moist and flavorful, and the sauce stays incredibly creamy. What is that depth of flavor that you can’t replicate on the stovetop? Is it cheaper to order takeout than ordering online?

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Sauce: How do you prepare it?

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 4 thighs, I prefer using chicken breasts that are around the same thickness for even cooking.
8 ounces cream cheese, softened: This is key for that creamy texture. Don’t skip softening it!
1 cup heavy cream: This adds richness and body to sauce. I’ve tried it with half and half, but heavy cream really makes a difference.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: 1 tsp Fresh grated is always best for flavor and texture, but the pre-shredded stuff works in a pinch.
What are the best ways to mince garlic? What gives this dish its signature flavor?
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: You can use a store-bought blend or make your own.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste.
What is the best way to ground black pepper?

For the Pasta:

1 pound pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne): 2 ounce I usually use fettuccine because it holds the sauce so well, but any pasta shape will work.
How do you salt pasta?

What are the steps to

Step 1: Place Chicken in Crockpot

Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your Slow Cooker. Make sure they are in a single layer.

Step 2: Add Sauce Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the softened Cream Cheese, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese and minced garlic. Set aside. Italian seasoning, salt and pepper. Mix well until everything is smooth and well combined. What is the best way to taste and adjust seasonings?

Step 3: Pour Sauce Over Chicken

What is the best way to serve the creamy sauce over Chicken Breasts? How do you cook chicken?

Step 4: Cook on Low

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. When chicken is done, it’s easily shredded with a fork. What is the best time to cook in a Slow Cooker?

Step 5: Cook Pasta

About 30 minutes before the chicken is done, cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain pasta and set aside.

Step 6: Shred Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it with two forks. If you’re making shredded chicken, place it in a crockpot and add the sauce.

Step 7: Add Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the crockpot and stir well to combine. What are some examples of creamy sauces? Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the pasta to absorb the sauce.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve immediately and garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired. A side of garlic bread is always a welcome addition!

What should I serve it with?

What is a good recipe for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta? To round it out: To say the least: I

Garlic Bread:What is a classic pairing? Buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
Side Salad:What is a green salad with vinaigrette dressing?
Steamed Broccoli A healthy and vibrant side dish that complements the richness of the pasta.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots are also great options.
Crusty Bread: For dipping in the creamy sauce. So good!

My family loves it with a side of garlic knots and a big Caesar salad. Sometimes I’ll even throw in some roasted cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and color.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Check for doneness after 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high.
Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese and Heavy Cream: These ingredients are essential for the creamy texture and rich flavor. Reduced-fat versions just won’t give you the same results.
Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Don’t be afraid to add more garlic, Parmesan, or Italian seasoning to suit your preferences.
Add Veggies: Stir in some steamed broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrients and flavor. I like to add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese add a pop of color and flavor.
Don’t forget to salt your pasta water! This is the easiest way to season your pasta from the inside out.
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to thin it out.

I’ve learned that adding a little bit of chicken broth at the end helps to loosen up the sauce and make it extra creamy. Also, don’t be tempted to open the crockpot too often while it’s cooking, as this can release heat and prolong the cooking time.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Room Temperature: This is generally not recommended for creamy dishes.
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating Instructions: To reheat, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to the pasta and microwave until heated through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

I find that adding a little extra Parmesan cheese when reheating helps to revive the flavor. Also, if you’re freezing it, it’s best to add the pasta after thawing and reheating to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can, but I recommend thawing them first for even cooking. If you do use frozen chicken, add an extra hour to the cooking time.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with other cheeses like Asiago or Romano, but Parmesan is really what gives this dish its signature flavor.

Can I make this with chicken thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative to chicken breasts. They tend to be more flavorful and stay moist during the slow cooking process.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms. I recommend adding them during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent them from becoming too mushy.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply add the chicken and follow the recipe instructions.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is more than just a recipe; it’s a comforting, easy, and delicious way to feed your family. The creamy, garlicky sauce, the tender chicken, and the perfectly cooked pasta…it’s a match made in heaven! And the best part is, it requires minimal effort on your part. If you love this, you might also enjoy my one-pot lemon chicken pasta or my baked Alfredo pasta recipe. Give it a try, and I promise you won’t be disappointed! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear what you think! Let me know in the comments if you’ve tried it and what variations you’ve made. I always love hearing from you!