There’s nothing quite like a big, comforting bowl of Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta to make everyone at the table swoon. This dish delivers the warm embrace of tender chicken, a luxuriously cheesy garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta with almost zero effort. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or simply craving a decadent weekday treat, this recipe transforms humble ingredients into a dreamy dinner you’ll rush to put on repeat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Grab these simple, pantry-friendly ingredients before you start — they’re the secret behind every bit of creamy, garlicky, cheesy perfection. Each one plays a special role, so don’t skip or skimp! Here’s what you’ll need to make Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta unforgettable:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These create an ultra-tender, protein-rich base and literally melt apart after slow-cooking.
- Chicken broth: Adds moistness and rich savory flavor, infusing the chicken and sauce.
- Cream cheese (softened): Melts down smoothly for that crave-worthy creamy texture in every bite.
- Shredded Parmesan cheese: The star of cheesy goodness, bringing salty, nutty, and subtly sharp notes to the sauce.
- Uncooked pasta (elbow macaroni or shells): Pick your favorite shape—these absorb the sauce beautifully for maximum flavor.
- Garlic (minced): Four cloves brighten and bolden the dish, guaranteeing you can taste the garlic in every forkful.
- Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper: Your essential trio for flavor depth; adjust to taste for perfect seasoning.
- Mozzarella cheese (optional): A final sprinkle, melting into irresistible gooeyness if you want an extra cheesy finish.
How to Make Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Prep the Crockpot and Chicken
Start by arranging your boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a snuggly single layer at the bottom of your crockpot. This helps the chicken soak up every ounce of flavor as it cooks and keeps it juicy from edge to edge.
Step 2: Add Seasonings
Scatter the minced garlic, a sprinkle of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper directly over the chicken. Massaging these seasonings in just a bit makes sure your chicken is deeply flavorful from the inside out.
Step 3: Pour in Chicken Broth
Pour the chicken broth all around and over the seasoned chicken. The broth not only keeps everything moist, but also acts as a base for that creamy sauce you’ll stir up later.
Step 4: Cook Until Tender
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. This slow simmer breaks the chicken down to fork-tender shreds and marries the garlic and spices right into the meat.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked and super tender, take two forks and gently shred it directly in the crockpot. It should fall apart easily, making the base for our creamy creation.
Step 6: Add Cream Cheese and Parmesan
Drop the softened cream cheese and Parmesan right into the hot, shredded chicken. Stir well until everything is gloriously smooth and melted, coating the chicken in a velvety garlic-Parmesan sauce.
Step 7: Stir in the Pasta
Add your uncooked pasta—whether you choose elbows or shells, just make sure they’re fully submerged in that luscious sauce so they cook evenly and soak up all the flavors.
Step 8: Final Cooking
Switch the crockpot to high, cover again, and cook for another 30 to 45 minutes. When the pasta is cooked through (but still delightfully al dente), you’re ready to serve.
Step 9: Finish with Mozzarella (Optional)
If you’re craving that extra gooey touch, sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top and let it melt into bubbly, cheesy goodness before dishing up your Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta.
How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Garnishes
A dish this creamy begs for a little colorful, fresh flourish right before serving. Try showering your bowl with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan, a handful of chopped fresh parsley, or even a twist of cracked black pepper. The green and gold contrast pops beautifully on the plate, and the brightness lifts every bite.
Side Dishes
To make your Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta even more of a feast, pair it with a crisp Caesar salad, tender roasted green beans, or classic garlic bread for plenty of crusty dipping action. Light, vibrant sides play against the richness of your pasta and round out a hearty meal without overpowering those star flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the usual scoop in a bowl! Spoon your pasta into individual ramekins for a cozy dinner party vibe, or serve it as the centerpiece on a pretty family-style platter surrounded by grilled veggies. For a potluck, keep it in the crockpot on warm and let guests help themselves—everyone will come back for seconds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers of Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, simply transfer them promptly to an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. They’ll stay creamy and delicious for up to 3 days, ready for quick lunches or another easy dinner.
Freezing
This pasta freezes surprisingly well! Let it cool fully, spoon into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating so the sauce returns to its perfectly silky, cohesive state.
Reheating
To revive that creamy magic, gently reheat Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in a covered pot on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce looks too thick. Stir often and heat just until warmed through—you don’t want to boil or dry it out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs make a fantastic substitute, staying just as tender and even adding a bit more richness and flavor. Keep the cooking times the same for perfectly juicy results.
What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?
Elbow macaroni and shells both work beautifully, absorbing that garlic-Parmesan sauce into all their nooks. Rotini or penne are also great alternatives if that’s what you have on hand.
Can I make this Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta gluten free?
Yes, simply swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta and double check that your broth, cheese, and seasonings are all labeled gluten free. Watch the pasta closely near the end of cooking, as gluten-free types often cook faster or absorb liquid differently.
How can I add vegetables to this dish?
Stir in baby spinach, peas, or thinly sliced bell peppers just before the pasta finishes cooking. The steam will wilt them down into the sauce, giving you pops of color and extra nutrition without much extra work.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick or too runny?
If your sauce comes out thicker than you’d like, gently stir in a splash or two of warm milk or chicken broth until it loosens. If it’s too runny, let the pasta cook a few extra minutes with the lid off, stirring occasionally to thicken things up.
Final Thoughts
If you’re dreaming of a cozy, fuss-free dinner that will make everyone smile, you simply have to try Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. With its rich garlic-Parmesan sauce and effortless crockpot magic, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself making it again and again—your tastebuds (and your loved ones) will thank you!
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Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken, flavorful garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese come together in a creamy sauce that coats every bite of pasta. This recipe is a family favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
Chicken Pasta:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Creamy Sauce:
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Additional:
- 8 oz uncooked pasta (elbow macaroni or shells)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot. Season with minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour chicken broth over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours until chicken is tender.
- Shred the chicken using two forks and return to the pot.
- Mix in cream cheese and Parmesan until melted into a creamy sauce.
- Stir in uncooked pasta until fully submerged.
- Cover and cook on high for an additional 30–45 minutes until pasta is cooked through.
- Optionally top with mozzarella cheese before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top before serving.
- This dish pairs well with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
