Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful and comforting dish that brings together tender chicken and rich flavors in a creamy sauce. This hearty meal is sure to impress anyone who sits down to enjoy it, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to fill tummies and warm hearts. The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce coats each piece of pasta, creating a visually appealing dish that looks as good as it tastes.
Prepare yourself for a sensory experience as the aroma of garlic wafts through your kitchen while it cooks. The creamy sauce melts in your mouth, and you can taste the delicious blend of seasonings. In this article, you’ll find everything you need to make this easy one-pot meal, from preparation tips to serving suggestions. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh chicken and herbs enhances the flavor profoundly.
- Ease of Preparation: Just toss everything in the crockpot—no need for complicated steps.
- Nutrition: Packed with protein and various nutrients, this dish makes for a fulfilling meal.
- Versatility: You can customize the pasta and add veggies to suit your taste.
- Presentation: The creamy pasta looks beautiful garnished with fresh parsley.
Make your cooking experience enjoyable and stress-free with this recipe!
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 4-6 hours
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 4-6 hours on low
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, start by selecting the right ingredients. You’ll need:
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz pasta (such as penne or rotini)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Main Protein: Chicken Breasts
Chicken breasts are the star ingredient in this dish. They cook evenly in the crockpot and soak up all the delicious flavors. To prepare, simply trim any excess fat and season lightly with salt and pepper before adding them to the slow cooker.
If you’re looking for an alternative, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier option.
Tip: Avoid overcooking the chicken by checking for doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F).
Starch/Pasta: Pasta Varieties
For this recipe, you usually choose pasta shapes like penne or rotini, which hold the sauce well. Before adding to the crockpot, you don’t need to cook it—just break it in half if necessary.
If you’re looking for an alternative, gluten-free pasta works perfectly too!
Warning: Make sure to add the pasta towards the end of the cooking time to prevent mushiness.
Liquids/Dairy: Heavy Cream
Heavy cream creates the rich sauce that envelops the pasta. With its smooth texture, it balances the flavors beautifully.
If you’re looking for an alternative, you can try half-and-half or a dairy-free cream for a lighter version.
Tip: Keep an eye on the sauce; if it thickens too much, add a little chicken broth.
Aromatics & Vegetables: Garlic
Minced garlic is essential for this recipe, providing that wonderful aroma and taste. You’ll need about three cloves. Simply mince them finely before adding to the crockpot.
If you’re looking for an alternative, garlic powder can be used in a pinch, but fresh garlic delivers a superior flavor.
Tip: Sautéing the garlic lightly before adding can enhance its flavor.
Seasoning/Spice Blend: Italian Seasoning
Italian seasoning adds depth to the dish with its mixture of herbs. Just a teaspoon is needed for that savory touch.
If you’re looking for an alternative, you can make your own blend using dried basil, oregano, and thyme.
Tip: Adjust the quantity according to your preference for herby flavor.
Optional Finishing Ingredients: Fresh Parsley
Fresh parsley is a fantastic finishing touch that brightens up the dish. Chop it finely and sprinkle over the pasta just before serving.
If you’re looking for an alternative, consider using basil or chives for a different flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking this dish is a breeze and requires just one pot! Let’s get started:
Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot
Start by spraying your crockpot with non-stick spray. This will help clean-up afterward.
Step 2: Add Chicken to Crockpot
Place the two chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Make sure they fit snugly.
Step 3: Mix in Seasoning and Garlic
In a bowl, mix the minced garlic and Italian seasoning together. Spread this mixture evenly over the chicken.
Step 4: Pour in Cream and Cheese
Gently pour the heavy cream over the chicken and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed for maximum flavor.
Step 5: Cook on Low
Cover the crockpot and set it to low heat. Cook for 4-6 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Step 6: Add Pasta Towards End
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked pasta. This allows it to cook perfectly in the creamy sauce.
Step 7: Shred Chicken and Stir
Once everything is done, shred the chicken with two forks directly in the crockpot. Mix everything well to combine.
How to Serve
- Presentation: Serve in deep bowls for a hearty look.
- Accompaniments: Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Portions: This recipe serves about 4-6 people, so adjust according to your needs.
- Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a crisp white wine, like Chardonnay, to complement the flavors.
Make your dining experience complete with these simple tips!
Additional Tips
- Flavor Enhancement: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Customization: Toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and color.
- Serving Suggestions: Drizzle with extra Parmesan before serving for a gourmet touch.
Recipe Variations
- Mushroom Delight: Sauté mushrooms and add them to the crockpot for an earthy flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños for a nice heat that complements the creaminess.
- Creamy Tomato: Stir in canned diced tomatoes along with the heavy cream for a classic twist.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For best results, freeze in single-serving sizes for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Special Equipment
- Crockpot: Essential for slow cooking.
- Meat Thermometer: For perfect chicken doneness.
- Chopping Knife: To prepare your garlic and herbs.
- Mixing Bowl: For combining sauce ingredients.
- Serving Spoons: To dish out your tasty meal.
FAQ’s
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but ensure it cooks longer to reach safe temperatures.Is this dish healthy?
It incorporates protein and can be made with whole grain pasta for additional nutrition.Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and store it in the fridge before cooking.Can I customize the flavors?
Yes! Feel free to include your favorite veggies or spices.What are alternative cooking methods?
You can also prepare this on the stovetop or in the oven if you don’t have a crockpot.
Conclusion
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a wonderfully delicious and healthy choice that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s an easy meal that satisfies everyone! Whether a family gathering or a cozy dinner for two, this recipe is sure to impress. So grab your ingredients and let your crockpot do the hard work for you!
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Start by spraying your crockpot with non-stick spray.
- Place the two chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
- In a bowl, mix the minced garlic and Italian seasoning together, and spread this mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Gently pour the heavy cream over the chicken and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to low heat. Cook for 4-6 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked pasta.
- Once everything is done, shred the chicken with two forks directly in the crockpot and mix well to combine.
Did you make this recipe?
Share a photo and tag us, we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!