Description
This crockpot garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is a comforting and easy slow cooker meal featuring tender chicken simmered in a creamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce. Combined with cooked pasta and finished with a splash of cream, it creates a rich, savory dinner perfect for family meals or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
Sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite)
Optional Garnish
- Chopped parsley
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the crockpot. Evenly sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper over the chicken to season.
- Add Sauce Ingredients: Pour chicken broth over the chicken. Add grated Parmesan cheese, softened cream cheese cubes, and minced garlic on top.
- Cook Chicken: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender enough to shred.
- Shred Chicken: Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot and stir it well to combine with the cheesy garlic sauce for a creamy texture.
- Cook Pasta: Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly to avoid excess water diluting the sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Cream: Add the drained pasta into the crockpot with the shredded chicken and sauce. Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half, then stir all ingredients together until the pasta is evenly coated and creamy.
- Serve: Dish out the pasta warm. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or extra Parmesan cheese if desired for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Cook pasta separately to prevent it from becoming overcooked or mushy in the crockpot.
- Add the cream after slow cooking to avoid sauce separation and maintain a smooth texture.
- Use fresh minced garlic and freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and creamy melt.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat gently, adding a splash of broth or cream as needed.
- You can freeze this dish in single portions; note that sauce texture might change slightly but can be restored by stirring while reheating.
- This recipe pairs excellently with a crisp green salad or toasted garlic bread to complete the meal.
