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Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 70 reviews
  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 to 5 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high
  • Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 5 hours 10 minutes (low) or 2 hours 10 minutes to 3 hours 10 minutes (high)
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

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

  1. 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.
  2. Add Sauce Ingredients: Pour chicken broth over the chicken. Add grated Parmesan cheese, softened cream cheese cubes, and minced garlic on top.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Cook Pasta: Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly to avoid excess water diluting the sauce.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.