This The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is a cozy, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With minimal effort, you can create a creamy, flavorful pasta dish that everyone will love. The combination of tender chicken, rich garlic, and Parmesan makes this meal not only delicious but also a great choice for various occasions, from casual dinners to special celebrations.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Cooking: This recipe requires just a few simple steps; let the crockpot do all the work while you enjoy your day.
Flavor Explosion: Rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan meld together to create a sauce that’s truly irresistible.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will appreciate the creamy texture and savory taste, making it a hit at the dinner table.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this dish by adding vegetables or using different types of pasta.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time, and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—it’s even better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes all the difference in your cooking experience. Here’s what you need to prepare this delightful dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Slow cooker
Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Mixing spoon
Forks (for shredding chicken)

Importance of Each Tool

Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring tender chicken without constant supervision.
Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy in ingredients for the best flavor.
Mixing spoon: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, especially when mixing in cream.

Ingredients

This crockpot garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is made with wholesome ingredients that come together for a hearty meal.

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp salt
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed and softened
1 tbsp minced garlic
12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite)
½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Optional: chopped parsley or extra Parmesan for garnish

How to Make The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Pour the chicken broth over the seasoned chicken.
Add grated Parmesan cheese, cubed cream cheese, and minced garlic on top.

Step 3: Cook to Perfection

Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, shred the chicken in the crockpot using two forks.
Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, prepare pasta according to package directions.
Drain once done and set aside.

Step 6: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Add the cooked pasta into the crockpot with shredded chicken.
Pour in heavy cream or half-and-half and stir until everything is well coated and creamy.

Step 7: Serve Your Dish

Serve warm with optional toppings like extra Parmesan or chopped parsley for garnish.
Enjoy your creamy comfort meal!

How to Serve The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Serving this dish is a delight! The creamy, garlic-infused sauce pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Make it Extra Creamy

Add a drizzle of heavy cream on top before serving for an extra rich flavor.
Stir in additional grated Parmesan cheese to elevate the cheesy goodness.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top to add a pop of color and freshness.
Try adding fresh basil or chives for a different herbal twist.

Pair it with Bread

Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the luscious sauce.
Consider a crusty baguette for a simple yet satisfying accompaniment.

Offer Extra Protein

Add grilled shrimp or sautéed mushrooms on top for added texture and flavor.
Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Create a Salad Bar

Offer a side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette for freshness.
Include options like olives or feta cheese to customize salads.

Enjoy Leftovers Creatively

Transform leftovers into a pasta bake by topping with cheese and baking until golden.
Mix with fresh vegetables for a quick lunch the next day.

How to Perfect The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

To ensure you create the best version of this recipe, consider these handy tips.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese will enhance the flavor significantly.
Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on your crockpot model, adjust cooking times slightly; chicken should be tender and easily shredded.
Choose Your Pasta Wisely: Opt for pasta shapes that hold onto the sauce well, like penne or rotini.
Don’t Overcook: Avoid overcooking the pasta in the crockpot; add it toward the end to keep it al dente.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other spices or herbs, such as Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes, for more depth.
Make it Ahead: This dish can be prepped ahead of time; just store everything in the fridge and cook when ready.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Complementing your main dish with suitable sides can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside.

Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted bread slathered in garlic butter complements the creamy pasta wonderfully.
Caesar Salad: A classic salad featuring romaine, croutons, and Caesar dressing adds crunch and freshness.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients; steam lightly to retain its crispness.
Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle asparagus with olive oil and roast until tender for an elegant side dish.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast.
Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, spiralized zucchini can be lightly sautéed and served under the pasta.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy texture that balances out the creaminess of the pasta dish.
Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs offers an alternative carb option that absorbs flavors well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe, it’s easy to make a few mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland pasta. Always sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper generously.
Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Set a timer and check for tenderness after 4 hours on low.
Neglecting to stir: Failing to stir the mixture before serving can leave uneven sauce distribution. Stir well after adding pasta and cream for a creamy texture.
Using the wrong pasta: Some pasta types absorb more sauce than others. Choose shapes like penne or rotini that hold sauce well.
Not letting it rest: Serving immediately may not allow flavors to meld. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving for optimal taste.
Forgetting garnishes: Skipping garnishes can make your dish look less appealing. Always add parsley or extra Parmesan for an attractive finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Keeps well for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers.
This dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowl on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just increase the cooking time by about an hour on low.

What type of pasta is best for crockpot meals?

Penne and rotini are great options as they hold sauce well. Avoid delicate pastas like angel hair.

Can I make this recipe without cream cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute with sour cream or omit it entirely, though it will change the texture slightly.

How do I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms during the last hour of cooking for added flavor and nutrition!

Final Thoughts

This cozy dish is perfect for family dinners or meal prep. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to be a hit at your table. Plus, you can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or extra spices!

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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

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The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

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Author: Cara
Total Time: 0 hours
Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe. This creamy, savory dish combines tender chicken and rich garlic flavors, all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. Ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this simple recipe requires minimal effort while delivering maximum taste. With its velvety sauce and cheesy goodness, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Customize it with your choice of pasta and veggies for a delightful twist that suits everyone’s palate. Enjoy this cozy meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious!

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed
12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
½ cup heavy cream
Minced garlic
Onion powder
Salt
Pepper

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Instructions

Place chicken breasts in the crockpot; season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Pour chicken broth over the seasoned chicken and add Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and minced garlic.
Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours until chicken is tender.
Shred the chicken in the crockpot using two forks; stir to combine.
Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
Add cooked pasta to the crockpot along with heavy cream; stir until well coated.
Serve warm with optional garnishes like parsley or extra Parmesan.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4–5 hours
Category: Main
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American