Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – A Deliciously Creamy, Easy Meal Recipe is an absolute game-changer for weeknight dinners. Imagine tender chicken breasts slow-cooked to perfection, smothered in a rich and creamy blend of garlic, Parmesan, and herbs, all mingling effortlessly with perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe strikes the ideal balance between comfort food and elegant flavor, making it a foolproof dish to impress family or friends without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a hands-off, cozy meal that delivers maximum taste with minimal effort, inviting you to sit back and relax while the flavors develop.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients often create the most memorable meals. Each component in this recipe plays a vital role in creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures—from the tender chicken to the luscious creamy sauce and aromatic herbs. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs): The star protein that becomes tender and juicy with slow cooking.
- 8 oz penne pasta (or your preferred pasta): Holds the sauce beautifully while adding satisfying bite and texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for searing): Adds a subtle caramelized flavor when searing the chicken first.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the depth of garlic flavor without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Provides a mild sweetness and savory background note.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Brings a fresh, herbaceous touch that brightens the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a subtle earthiness and complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Offers a gentle kick of heat for those who like a touch of spice.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps the pasta moist and infuses it with savory goodness.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The rich creamy base that creates that luxurious texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings nutty, salty flavor and delicious melty goodness.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional): Adds extra gooey, stretchy cheese appeal.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tablespoon garlic paste): Fresh garlic ensures a vibrant and aromatic punch of flavor.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds creaminess with a mild tang that balances richness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: A bright, herbaceous garnish that adds color and freshness.
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese: Perfect for sprinkling on top for that irresistible finishing touch.
How to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – A Deliciously Creamy, Easy Meal Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and (Optional) Sear the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your favorite garlic and herb powders if you like. While this step is optional, searing the chicken in a little olive oil over medium-high heat for 2 to 3 minutes per side adds a wonderful depth of flavor and beautiful color. Once seared, transfer the chicken to your Crockpot. This simple step elevates the dish but you can skip it if you’re short on time.
Step 2: Add Pasta and Chicken Broth
Next, add the pasta right around the chicken in the Crockpot. Pour in the chicken broth carefully to distribute it evenly. This liquid will infuse the pasta and keep it nice and tender during the slow cooking process. The broth also starts the base for your creamy sauce, so don’t skip it!
Step 3: Whisk the Creamy Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, mozzarella (if using), sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, thyme, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This combination is the magic behind the Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – A Deliciously Creamy, Easy Meal Recipe. Pour this luscious sauce over the chicken and pasta, coating everything evenly.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Cover the Crockpot and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. During this time, the chicken will cook through perfectly, the pasta will soak up the creamy flavors, and all the ingredients will meld together in delicious harmony. This slow cook is what makes this meal so effortless without losing any flavor.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken and Stir Together
Once cooked, gently remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the Crockpot and stir everything together. If the pasta looks too thick, add a bit more broth or cream to loosen it to your desired consistency. This step ensures every bite is coated with that rich, garlicky, Parmesan sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Now, your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – A Deliciously Creamy, Easy Meal Recipe is ready to serve! Scoop generous portions on plates or bowls, then sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan for that perfectly polished finish. It’s creamy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible.
How to Serve Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – A Deliciously Creamy, Easy Meal Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a burst of color and a refreshing herbaceous note that lights up the creamy texture. Don’t forget a generous dusting of extra Parmesan cheese on top—this not only looks beautiful but brings a delightful salty kick with every bite.
Side Dishes
This rich and hearty pasta pairs beautifully with lighter sides like a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or garlic-roasted vegetables to complement the garlicky flavors. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread is also fantastic for soaking up any extra sauce left on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to add a bit of flair, serve this pasta in shallow pasta bowls and garnish with vibrant, edible flowers or microgreens for a gourmet touch. Alternatively, you can present it in individual mini slow cookers if hosting a dinner party or family gathering, which keeps the pasta warm and adds a fun visual.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy the delicious flavors all week long without any compromise.
Freezing
If you’re looking to freeze portions, pack the pasta into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Keep in mind that pasta with heavy cream sauces freezes best if frozen soon after cooking. Try to consume within 2 months for optimal texture and flavor.
Reheating
For reheating, gently warm your leftover crockpot pasta in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce and keep it creamy. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option and tend to stay extra moist and flavorful during slow cooking, making them perfect for this dish.
What pasta type works best in this recipe?
Penne is ideal because it holds the sauce well, but you can swap in rigatoni, fusilli, or any pasta shape you love. Just be sure to adjust cooking times if necessary.
Is it necessary to sear the chicken first?
Searing is optional but recommended for added flavor and a lovely golden color. However, you can skip this step if you’re short on time or prefer to keep it simpler.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or lower in fat?
You can swap heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free twist. For a lighter version, try substituting sour cream with Greek yogurt and using part-skim mozzarella.
How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a mild, gentle heat that complements the creamy sauce without overpowering it. You can always omit or reduce the amount to suit your heat preference.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about sinking your fork into the creamy, garlicky goodness of Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – A Deliciously Creamy, Easy Meal Recipe. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a busy day and is simple enough to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—once you experience how effortless and delicious this slow cooker recipe is, it just might become your new favorite go-to for many cozy nights ahead.
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Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – A Deliciously Creamy, Easy Meal Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4–5 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 5 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts cook slowly alongside penne pasta in a rich sauce made with garlic, Parmesan, mozzarella, and herbs, resulting in a comforting and easy-to-make dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta (or your preferred pasta)
Sauce & Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for searing)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tablespoon garlic paste)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnishes
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken (Optional): Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear each chicken breast for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped for convenience. Place the chicken into the Crockpot.
- Add Pasta and Broth: Pour the penne pasta and chicken broth evenly around the chicken breasts in the Crockpot, ensuring the pasta is submerged to cook evenly.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, dried thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper until fully combined. Pour this sauce mixture evenly over the chicken and pasta in the Crockpot.
- Cook in Crockpot: Cover the Crockpot and cook on low heat for 4–5 hours or on high heat for 2–3 hours. Cooking is complete when the chicken is fully cooked through and the pasta is tender.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the Crockpot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the Crockpot and stir everything to combine well. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or cream to loosen it.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the garlic Parmesan chicken pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese for an added burst of flavor.
Notes
- For added depth of flavor, sear the chicken before slow cooking, but you can skip this step to save time.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free friendly.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spice level.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer darker meat.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently with a splash of broth or cream.
