Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – Easy & Cheesy Recipe

Introduction

If you’re looking for a rich, creamy, and flavorful pasta dish that’s effortless to make, this Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the perfect recipe. With tender shredded chicken, a luxurious garlic parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is a true comfort food classic.

What makes this recipe so great? It’s a dump-and-go slow cooker meal, which means minimal prep work while delivering maximum flavor. The garlic parmesan sauce combined with cream cheese and shredded parmesan creates a silky smooth, cheesy coating that clings to every bite of pasta. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prep, or a potluck, this recipe is guaranteed to impress!

In this article, we’ll go through the step-by-step preparation, expert tips, variations, storage methods, and answer common questions to help you create the best slow cooker garlic parmesan chicken pasta right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy: Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work!
• Incredibly Creamy: The combination of garlic parmesan sauce, cream cheese, and shredded parmesan creates a rich, velvety texture.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead and enjoy throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: A dish that both kids and adults will love.
• Customizable: Swap out ingredients to suit your taste!

Ingredients Breakdown

Essential Ingredients

Each ingredient plays a vital role in making this Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta absolutely delicious:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Becomes tender and easy to shred after slow cooking.
• 16 ounces garlic parmesan sauce – The star of the show! Brands like Sweet Baby Ray’s work great.
• 2 cups milk or heavy cream – Adds richness and enhances the sauce’s creaminess.
• 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed – Melts into the sauce, making it ultra-luxurious.
• 2 cups shredded Parmesan cheese – Boosts the cheesy, nutty flavor profile.
• 1½ pounds penne or preferred pasta – Holds the sauce well, but any sturdy pasta works.
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional) – Adds color and freshness to the dish.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot

• Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the bottom of your crockpot.
• Pour the garlic parmesan sauce over the chicken.

Step 2: Add the Dairy

• Fill the empty sauce bottle with milk or heavy cream, shake to get any remaining sauce, and pour it into the crockpot.
• Add cubed cream cheese on top.
• Sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese over everything.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Chicken

• Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours or HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

• While the chicken is cooking, prepare the pasta according to the package instructions.
• Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

• Once the chicken is done, use two forks to shred it directly in the crockpot.

Step 6: Combine Everything

• Add the cooked pasta to the crockpot.
• Stir well to combine and ensure the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• Use Heavy Cream for Extra Richness – If you love an ultra-creamy sauce, opt for heavy cream instead of milk.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken – Overcooking can make the chicken dry. Stick to the recommended times.
• Adjust the Cheese Ratio – If you love extra cheesy pasta, add an additional ½ cup of shredded Parmesan.
• Reserve Some Pasta Water – If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan – Pre-packaged Parmesan doesn’t melt as smoothly.

Variations & Substitutions

• Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Use Different Pasta: Try fettuccine, rigatoni, or bowtie pasta.
• Swap the Chicken for Shrimp: Stir in cooked shrimp instead of chicken.
• Add Veggies: Toss in broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrients.
• Make it Low-Carb: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.

How to Store and Reheat

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to avoid clumping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Mozzarella, gouda, or cheddar can be used for a different cheesy flavor.

2. How can I make this dish less rich?

Use low-fat cream cheese and skim milk instead of heavy cream.

3. What’s the best way to prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

Cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving.

4. Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of a crockpot?

Absolutely! Simply simmer everything in a large pan over medium heat until the chicken is tender.

5. What side dishes go well with this pasta?

A simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly with this creamy dish.

Conclusion

This Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delicious, creamy, and satisfying meal that’s super easy to make. With tender chicken, a rich garlic parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to please the entire family.

Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or special occasions, this dish brings together bold flavors with minimal effort. Give it a try, and enjoy a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that’s better than takeout!

Happy cooking!

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