Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you love comforting meals that basically cook themselves, you’ll want to try this Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Imagine juicy chicken simmered in a rich, garlicky sauce with plenty of creamy cheese, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta—no fuss, just pure comfort in every bite. It’s the kind of set-and-forget recipe that fills your kitchen with savory aromas and rewards you with a dinner everyone looks forward to. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or making a cozy meal for yourself, this creamy pasta is a weeknight winner you’ll crave again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is all about simple, classic ingredients that deliver big-time comfort. Each one brings something special, from savory base notes to bursts of creamy goodness. Take a peek at why you won’t want to skip a single thing:

• Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless, and easy to shred, they soak up all the delicious flavors while cooking.
• Chicken broth: Adds savory depth and keeps the chicken ultra-tender throughout the slow cook.
• Cream cheese: Softened for easy mixing, it makes the sauce extra rich and velvety.
• Parmesan cheese: Shredded for the best meltiness and sharp, nutty flavor you expect from a great Alfredo-style pasta.
• Garlic: Fresh minced cloves pack a punch of robust, aromatic flavor that carries through every bite.
• Italian seasoning: An easy blend of herbs that brings warmth and classic Italian flair.
• Salt: Essential for rounding out all the other savory flavors in the dish.
• Black pepper: A subtle kick that balances the creaminess of the sauce.
• Pasta (elbow macaroni or shells): These shapes soak up every bit of creamy sauce and hold up beautifully in the crockpot.
• Mozzarella cheese (optional): Brings gooey, melty comfort as a final touch (totally optional, but highly recommended!).
• Fresh parsley or basil: Adds a pop of color and freshness to balance the richness.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): Perfect for those who like a hint of heat in their creamy pasta.

How to Make Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Get the Chicken Ready

Begin by placing your chicken breasts directly at the bottom of your crockpot. Make sure they’re laid flat so they cook evenly—these juicy fillets will be the star ingredient and the base of your savory sauce.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Sprinkle the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper over the chicken. Be generous; these simple aromatics are what give Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta its mouthwatering depth of flavor. As it slow-cooks, the chicken will soak up all those herbal, garlicky notes.

Step 3: Add the Broth

Pour the chicken broth right over the seasoned chicken. It’ll keep everything moist and start building the delicious creamy sauce that makes this dish irresistible.

Step 4: Cooking Time

Pop the lid on your crockpot and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. Go about your day! Once the chicken shreds easily with a fork, it’s done—and your kitchen will smell amazing.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Carefully take the chicken out with tongs and set it on a cutting board. Grab two forks and gently pull the chicken apart into bite-sized shreds. Letting it cool for just a minute will make shredding easier and safer, too.

Step 6: Mix in the Cheeses

Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot. Now, stir in the softened cream cheese and Parmesan cheese. As they melt, they’ll blend into the broth for a gloriously creamy, cheesy sauce that hugs every piece of chicken.

Step 7: Add the Pasta

Time for pasta! Pour the uncooked macaroni or shells right into the silky sauce. Give it all a big stir so every noodle is coated and soaking up that deliciousness.

Step 8: Cooking the Pasta

Cover and switch the crockpot to high. Cook for 30 to 45 minutes, stirring once or twice to keep the pasta from sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is tender but not mushy—taste testing is encouraged!

Step 9: Final Touches

For extra cheesiness, sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top, then cover and let it melt into gooey perfection. This extra step takes your Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta to the next level.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Finish with a handful of fresh parsley or basil sprinkled over the top, and if you love a kick, add some red pepper flakes. Scoop into bowls, serve warm, and savor every creamy, garlicky bite of your homemade comfort classic.

How to Serve Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil really brightens up the richness of this dish, adding a burst of color and herbal freshness. For anyone craving a little heat, a dusting of red pepper flakes is a quick way to perk things up and make every plate pop.

Side Dishes

This pasta is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables makes for a well-rounded meal. A loaf of crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover cheesy sauce—your family will thank you!

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in individual ramekins for a dinner party or pack it into thermos containers for an incredible work lunch. For a fun twist, top with extra mozzarella and quickly broil until bubbly for an irresistible baked pasta vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the pasta cool completely before placing leftovers in an airtight container. They’ll keep for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator, making for a fantastic next-day lunch or speedy dinner.

Freezing

You can freeze Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta! Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers and lay flat to save space. For the best texture, thaw in the fridge overnight and try to eat within one to two months for peak flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of extra chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce, then microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. Alternatively, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni or shells work beautifully, you can use penne, rotini, or any sturdy pasta shape you have on hand. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as some pastas may cook a little faster or slower.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

If you’re out of cream cheese, you can substitute with mascarpone or even a bit of heavy cream, though the sauce may be a little less thick. The creamy element is key to Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, so use what you have for a luscious finish.

Can I make this recipe with frozen chicken?

It’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking and food safety, but if you need to use frozen, add some extra time and be sure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before shredding.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply swap the chicken for your favorite plant-based protein (like chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms), use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and proceed as directed for creamy, comforting results without meat.

What should I do if the sauce seems too thick?

If your sauce thickens up more than you’d like, just add a bit of extra chicken broth or milk to loosen it. Stir well until you reach your ideal creamy consistency—it’s all about personal preference!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to make Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta part of your regular dinner rotation. Whether it’s for a family gathering or a solo cozy meal, this creamy, comforting dish never disappoints. Gather your ingredients, let the crockpot work its magic, and get ready for smiles all around your table!

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