Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

The Creamiest Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

A magical crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta that transforms your ordinary weeknight dinner into a creamy, comforting feast.

Slow cooking infuses every bite with rich, aromatic flavors that dance across your taste buds.

Tender chicken pieces melt into a luxurious sauce, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug.

Cheese lovers will swoon over the generous sprinkle of parmesan that adds depth and tangy notes.

Minimal effort delivers maximum satisfaction with this simple yet impressive meal.

Zero complicated techniques stand between you and dinner perfection.

One pot means less cleanup and more time enjoying delicious moments together.

Grab a fork and get ready to savor every incredible, cheesy bite!

How to Cook Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare Flavorful Chicken Base

  • Chicken breasts or thighs
  • Minced garlic
  • Garlic powder
  • Italian seasoning
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Place chicken in the slow cooker. Sprinkle all seasonings evenly over the meat. Gently pour chicken broth and heavy cream to create a luscious cooking liquid. Drop softened cream cheese in chunks across the top, allowing it to melt and blend into the sauce during cooking.

Step 2: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat. Let the chicken simmer and become incredibly tender for 5-6 hours. If you’re short on time, use the high setting for 3-4 hours. The chicken should easily pull apart and be infused with rich, garlicky flavors.

Step 3: Shred and Mix Chicken

Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker. Using two forks, gently pull the chicken apart into delicate, bite-sized shreds. Return the shredded chicken back into the creamy sauce, stirring to ensure even distribution.

Step 4: Prepare Pasta

About 20 minutes before serving, cook pasta in a separate pot according to package directions. Drain the pasta thoroughly, keeping it warm and ready to combine with the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Creamy Sauce

Transfer the cooked pasta directly into the slow cooker. Gently toss the pasta until every strand is generously coated with the rich, garlicky sauce. The pasta will absorb the delicious flavors, creating a mouthwatering dish.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Scoop the creamy pasta onto serving plates. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Add a light garnish of chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately with a side of crusty garlic bread or a crisp green salad.

Handy Tips for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

  • Chicken Prep Perfection: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for even cooking and easier shredding in the crockpot.
  • Cream Cheese Trick: Let cream cheese soften at room temperature for 30 minutes before adding to ensure smooth, lump-free sauce integration.
  • Pasta Timing Mastery: Cook pasta separately to prevent overcooking and maintain the perfect al dente texture before mixing with the creamy sauce.
  • Flavor Boost Hack: Layer extra garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or red pepper flakes for a more intense and personalized taste profile.
  • Low-Carb Swap Option: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carbohydrate alternative that keeps the dish's creamy essence.

Best Way to Keep Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

  • Refrigerate: Transfer leftover chicken pasta to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool the dish completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Microwave Reheating: Sprinkle a few tablespoons of chicken broth or water over the pasta to restore moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until warmed through.
  • Stovetop Method: Pour pasta into a skillet with a splash of broth or cream. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring gently to prevent sticking and maintain creamy texture. Add extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
  • Freezing Option: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve the chicken's tenderness and sauce's creamy consistency.

What Goes Well with Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

  • Complement Creamy Garlic Goodness: Pair this rich, garlicky chicken pasta with a crisp and light chardonnay that cuts through the heaviness and refreshes the palate. The wine's subtle buttery notes will enhance the creamy sauce's texture.
  • Balance with Bright Salad: Create a zesty side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette. The salad's acidity will contrast the dish's richness and provide a fresh, palate-cleansing element.
  • Serve with Garlic Bread Crunch: Prepare homemade garlic bread with a crispy exterior and soft inside. The bread's garlicky flavor will echo the pasta's seasoning and provide a delightful textural contrast to the creamy sauce.
  • Elevate with Roasted Vegetables: Roast seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus with olive oil and herbs. The caramelized edges and natural sweetness will complement the savory chicken pasta perfectly.

Ways to Change Up Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

  • Spicy Southwest Chicken Pasta: Swap Italian seasoning for taco seasoning, add diced green chiles, and mix in pepper jack cheese for a zesty kick that transforms the classic recipe into a southwestern-style meal.
  • Mediterranean Herb Chicken Pasta: Replace Italian seasoning with Greek oregano, add crumbled feta cheese, chopped kalamata olives, and sun-dried tomatoes to create a Mediterranean-inspired version with bright, tangy flavors.
  • Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta: Sauté sliced mushrooms before adding to the crockpot, incorporate fresh thyme, and sprinkle in some dried porcini powder to enhance the earthy, rich undertones of the dish.
  • Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta: Stir in fresh lemon zest, replace some chicken broth with white wine, and add chopped fresh basil and dill for a light, refreshing Mediterranean-style pasta that feels elegant and bright.

FAQs for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

  • Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs. Just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

  • Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Unfortunately, the heavy cream and cream cheese are essential to the sauce’s creamy texture. Dairy-free alternatives might change the recipe’s overall flavor and consistency.

  • What if I don't have Italian seasoning?

No worries! You can create your own blend using dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary in equal proportions to replace the Italian seasoning.

  • Can I substitute the pasta type?

Absolutely! While the recipe works best with shorter pasta like penne or rotini, you can use spaghetti or fettuccine if that’s what you have on hand.

What’s Great About Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

  • Effortless One-Pot Comfort: Crockpot cooking eliminates multiple dirty dishes, making this chicken pasta a stress-free meal perfect for busy families.
  • Creamy Flavor Explosion: Rich garlic and Parmesan create a luxurious, indulgent sauce that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality dinner without complicated techniques.
  • Customize and Adapt: Easily swap chicken types, adjust seasonings, or add vegetables to make this recipe uniquely yours, ensuring it suits different taste preferences and dietary needs.
  • Hands-Off Cooking Magic: Slow cooker method means minimal active preparation time, allowing you to walk away and return to a deliciously tender, well-developed meal ready to enjoy.

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Ingredients List

Main Proteins:
  • Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Tender meat that absorbs delicious flavors, works great with slow cooking method. Boneless and skinless recommended for easier preparation.
Seasonings and Spices:
  • Minced Garlic, Garlic Powder: Provides robust and intense garlic flavor throughout the dish. Fresh garlic offers more depth, while powder ensures consistent seasoning.
  • Italian Seasoning: Blend of dried herbs that adds Mediterranean-inspired complexity to the sauce. Pre-mixed blends work well for convenience.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential for enhancing overall flavor profile. Freshly ground black pepper recommended for better taste.
Liquid and Dairy Components:
  • Chicken Broth: Creates a flavorful base for the sauce and helps cook the chicken. Low-sodium versions allow better control of salt levels.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creamy texture to the sauce. Full-fat version provides best consistency.
  • Cream Cheese: Contributes smooth, tangy element and helps thicken the sauce. Softened at room temperature for easier blending.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Provides sharp, salty finish and classic Italian touch. Freshly grated preferred over pre-packaged.
Pasta and Garnish:
  • Pasta: Captures and holds sauce well. Short shapes like penne or rotini work best for this recipe.
  • Parsley: Fresh herb that adds bright color and mild, fresh flavor to the finished dish.
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Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe


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4.8 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 5-6 hours
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Succulent crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta brings comfort and convenience to weeknight dinners. Creamy, cheesy goodness awaits with minimal effort, promising a delicious meal that satisfies hungry families in one hearty pot.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1.5 pounds (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Dairy:

  • 1 (8 ounces / 225 g) block of cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup (120 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
  • ½ cup (120 g) shredded Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

Seasoning and Liquid:

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups (480 milliliters) chicken broth

Pasta:

  • 12 ounces (340 g) penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti

Garnish:

  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Nestle the chicken pieces into the crockpot, generously coating them with a robust blend of minced garlic, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Create a luxurious bath of chicken broth and heavy cream, then delicately scatter softened cream cheese chunks throughout the mixture.
  2. Allow the slow cooker to transform the ingredients, covering and cooking on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken reaches peak tenderness and becomes effortlessly pullable.
  3. Extract the chicken from its aromatic bath and meticulously shred using two forks, then reintroduce the tender meat back into the creamy sauce, stirring to ensure perfect integration.
  4. Approach the final stage by preparing the pasta in boiling water according to package guidelines, ensuring an al dente texture. Drain thoroughly and set aside, anticipating its union with the rich sauce.
  5. Merge the cooked pasta into the crockpot, gently tossing until every strand becomes lavishly coated in the velvety, garlicky sauce, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
  6. Present the dish with a flourish of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. Serve immediately while piping hot, accompanied by crispy garlic bread or a crisp, refreshing salad to complete the meal.

Notes

  • Choose bone-in or boneless chicken for varied flavor and texture, ensuring juicy results that complement the creamy sauce.
  • Using low-fat cream cheese can reduce calories while maintaining the dish’s rich, velvety consistency without sacrificing taste.
  • Gluten-free pasta works perfectly in this recipe, making it accessible for those with dietary restrictions without changing the overall deliciousness.
  • Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can replace parsley, adding an extra layer of aromatic complexity to the final dish.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5-6 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 703
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 927 mg
  • Fat: 41 g
  • Saturated Fat: 24 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 51 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 36 g
  • Cholesterol: 150 mg
Jenna Stewart

Jenna Stewart

Head Chef & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Farm-to-Table Cooking; Seasonal Menu Development; Visual Plating Techniques; Flavor Layering and Simple Prep Hacks.

Education

The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY

  • Program: Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Hands-on training in classic and modern techniques, global cuisines, and flavor development, combined with real-world experience in restaurant operations, business management, and industry internships.

Jenna Stewart is the inventive spirit behind many of our standout dishes at Pro of Delicious Creations. A proud graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, she built her skills mastering both classic recipes and fresh, modern twists.

Now, Jenna celebrates the beauty of seasonal, local ingredients, often sourced from her garden and nearby markets, to create recipes that are bursting with flavor yet easy to follow. When she’s not experimenting in the kitchen, Jenna loves exploring nature on hikes and discovering new treasures at local co-ops.

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