As the sun set, casting a warm glow, I yearned for a comforting meal. The Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta was just what I needed. It’s a dish that combines flavor, ease, and the joy of slow-cooked food.
Key Takeaways
- Tender, shredded chicken in a creamy, garlic-infused Parmesan sauce
- Easy slow cooker preparation for hands-off convenience
- Customizable with your favorite pasta shapes and add-ins
- Hearty and comforting, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends
- Utilizes store-bought garlic Parmesan sauce for added flavor and time-saving
Why This Slow Cooker Chicken Pasta is Perfect for Busy Weeknights
This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a top pick for easy weeknight meals. It’s made in the slow cooker, which means you can relax while it cooks. This family-friendly dinner is full of flavor without taking up all your time.
The slow cooker turns simple ingredients into a tasty comfort food meal. Just a few minutes of prep in the morning, and you’ll have a hot, delicious dinner ready for your family.
It’s ideal for nights when you’re short on time or energy. The slow cooker keeps the chicken moist and the sauce creamy. Every bite is packed with flavor.
| Nutrition Facts | Value |
|---|---|
| Servings | 6 |
| Calories | 939 kcal |
| Total Cook Time | 4 hours 30 minutes |
| Skill Level | Beginner |
This slow cooker chicken pasta is a weeknight winner. It’s easy, comforting, and full of flavor. It’s the go-to for busy families looking for a tasty, family-friendly dinner with no fuss. Enjoy a meal that feels like it came from a restaurant, all thanks to your slow cooker!
Essential Ingredients for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
To make the perfect crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta, you need a few key ingredients. The sauce, seasonings, and some optional extras all come together. They make this slow-cooked meal a hit.
Main Components
- 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 16 ounces of pasta noodles
- 8 ounces of shredded parmesan cheese
Sauce and Seasonings
The sauce is the heart of this garlic chicken pasta recipe. You’ll need:
- 4 ounces of cream cheese
- ¼ cup of heavy cream
- 3 cups of chicken broth
- Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder for extra taste
Optional Add-ins and Variations
To make your parmesan cheese recipes even better, try adding:
- Fresh or frozen broccoli, spinach, or peas
- A bit of Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce (or something similar)
With these ingredients, you can make a delicious and comforting crockpot chicken meals. Your whole family will enjoy it.
Kitchen Equipment and Preparation Tips
Whipping up tasty slow cooker recipes like this easy chicken dinner is easier with the right tools. For the Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe, you’ll need a 5-quart slow cooker. Also, basic measuring cups and spoons, and some essential utensils are necessary.
Before adding ingredients, spray the slow cooker’s interior with non-stick cooking spray. This makes cleanup easy when the dish is ready. Also, using room temperature cream cheese prevents curdling in the sauce.
When mixing the sauce, shake the bottle with extra milk. This trick ensures you get all the flavors. It makes the sauce rich and creamy, perfect for the pasta and chicken.
With these tips and the right tools, you’re set for a delicious slow cooker recipe on a busy weeknight. Get ready to enjoy the flavors of this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta dish soon!
Pair your slow cooker meal with a classic side. Try our Calico Beans Recipe for a flavorful and hearty addition to your dinner
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making Crockpot garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is easy. Start by putting boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Next, pour 12 oz of Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce over the chicken. Add ½ cup of chicken stock and 1 tablespoon of butter.
Cover the cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Wait until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches 165°F.
Making the Creamy Sauce
After the chicken is cooked, shred it with two forks. In a bowl, mix ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and ½ cup of cream cheese until smooth. Add this mixture to the shredded chicken and sauce in the slow cooker.
Pasta Cooking and Final Assembly
- While the chicken cooks, prepare 8 oz (225 g) of your favorite pasta as the package says.
- Drain the pasta and mix it with the chicken and sauce in the slow cooker.
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream or milk.
Serve the Crockpot garlic Parmesan chicken pasta hot. It’s a perfect one-pot meal for busy nights. The tender chicken, creamy sauce, and cooked pasta will delight everyone.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts | 450g |
| Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce | 12 oz |
| Grated Parmesan Cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Chicken Stock | 1/2 cup |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Cream Cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Pasta | 8 oz (225g) |
Pro Tips for Perfect Results Every Time
Making a tasty easy chicken dinner or comfort food meals is simple. Just follow a few easy tips to get perfect results every time with your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta.
- Cook the pasta separately to prevent it from becoming mushy in the slow cooker.
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for even melting and smooth incorporation into the sauce.
- To extract all the flavors, add a splash of milk to the sauce jar, secure the lid, and give it a good shake before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken breasts reach an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- Consider using Sweet Baby Ray’s sauce for a milder flavor profile if cooking for those sensitive to spice.
By following these tips, you’ll make a delicious and easy easy chicken dinner that everyone will love. Get ready to enjoy the comforting flavors of this comfort food meals classic!
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Enjoy the delicious flavors of your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta without worrying about leftovers. This meal is perfect for families and can be easily stored and reheated. This way, you can enjoy it again and again.
Refrigeration Instructions
Put any leftover Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay good for 3-4 days. The creamy sauce and tender chicken will keep their great taste and texture.
Reheating Methods
- Stovetop Reheating: Put the leftover pasta in a saucepan and heat it on low, stirring often. Add a bit of milk or cream to keep the sauce creamy.
- Microwave Reheating: Put the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring between each burst, until hot.
Choose your reheating method wisely. Stir the pasta often to heat it evenly and keep the sauce from drying out. With these tips, you can enjoy the Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta whenever you want.
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving (1.25 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 405 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Protein | 39 g |
| Fat | 11 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Cholesterol | 93 mg |
| Sodium | 936 mg |
| Potassium | 802 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
Serving Suggestions and Side Dish Pairings
This creamy comfort food meal goes great with many tasty side dishes. It makes a balanced and family-friendly dinner. Try it with steamed or roasted broccoli, sautéed green beans, or a fresh green salad. These options add color and crunch to the dish.
Garlic bread, breadsticks, or homemade rolls are also great. They let you enjoy every bit of the sauce. For something more filling, try it over mashed potatoes, white rice, or creamy polenta.
| Side Dish Pairing | Rationale |
|---|---|
| Steamed or Roasted Broccoli | Provides a crunchy, fresh contrast to the creamy pasta. |
| Sautéed Green Beans | The bright, tender-crisp texture complements the rich chicken and pasta. |
| Green Salad with Vinaigrette | A light, acidic salad balances the decadent flavors of the main dish. |
| Garlic Bread or Rolls | Perfectly suited for sopping up the delectable sauce. |
| Mashed Potatoes or Polenta | Provides a starchy base to soak up the creamy chicken and pasta. |
Choose any of these side dishes, and this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta will be a hit. It’s perfect for a comforting and family-friendly dinner.
Looking for more ways to enjoy chicken? Don’t miss our Hellmann’s Potato Salad Recipe for a creamy, tangy side dish.
Recipe Variations and Customization Options
The garlic chicken pasta recipe is very versatile. You can make it heartier or lighter, depending on what you like. It’s all about customizing the creamy parmesan cheese recipe to your taste.
Want to try something different? Swap the rotini pasta for penne, fusilli, or shells. It adds a fun twist. You can also use different cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a unique flavor.
Looking for a change? Use sliced sausage or shrimp instead of chicken. Sausage adds savory notes, while shrimp brings a sweet touch. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sauce.
For a crunchy topping, mix crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle it over the pasta before baking. It makes the garlic chicken pasta crispy and golden.
There are endless ways to make your parmesan cheese recipe special. Feel free to experiment and make it your own. You’ll end up with a meal that’s both delicious and impressive.
Conclusion
The Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful and effortless meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
This recipe is versatile, letting you customize it to your liking. You can add more vegetables for nutrition or adjust the creaminess. The slow cooking keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
The blend of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and cream makes a delicious sauce. Whether you’re looking for an easy chicken dinner or a comforting meal, this is a great choice. It’s simple to prepare and cooks slowly, making it a convenient option. Try this recipe and enjoy the delicious flavors of this Crockpot classic.
Want to switch it up for your next meal? Check out our Salmon Bites Recipe for a quick and delicious seafood option.
FAQ
What is Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a slow cooker recipe. It combines tender chicken, savory Parmesan cheese, and a creamy garlic sauce. It’s a convenient and delicious meal that cooks itself.
Why is this slow cooker chicken pasta perfect for busy weeknights?
This recipe is great for busy days. It offers a flavor-packed, comforting dish with little effort. The slow cooker does most of the work, making it taste like it took more effort than it did.
What are the key ingredients in this dish?
Key ingredients include boneless skinless chicken breasts, garlic Parmesan sauce, cream cheese, milk, and Parmesan cheese. Pasta and heavy cream are also used. Seasonings like Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder add to the flavors.
What kitchen equipment is needed to make this recipe?
You’ll need a 5-quart crockpot, measuring cups, and basic kitchen utensils. Spray the crockpot with non-stick cooking spray for easy cleanup. Use room temperature cream cheese to prevent curdling.
How do you prepare and cook the Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Place the chicken in the crockpot and add the sauce ingredients. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Cook the pasta separately near the end of cooking time.
Shred the chicken, combine it with pasta and sauce, and add heavy cream for extra richness. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
What are some pro tips for perfect results?
Cook the pasta separately to prevent it from becoming mushy. Use room temperature cream cheese for even melting. Add milk to the sauce bottle and shake to extract all the flavors.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to 165°F.
How should you store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to prevent drying out.
What are some serving suggestions and side dish pairings?
Pair the Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with steamed or roasted broccoli, sautéed green beans, or a simple salad with vinaigrette. Garlic bread, breadsticks, or homemade rolls are great for soaking up the sauce.
Can I customize or make variations to this recipe?
Yes, you can try different pasta shapes, cheeses, or protein sources like chicken thighs, sausage, or shrimp. You can also add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for extra heat. Create a crunchy topping with crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs mixed with butter.
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Easy Slow Cooker Meal
30m
240m
270m
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Pour 12 oz of Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce over the chicken.
- Add 1/2 cup of chicken stock and 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches 165°F.
- Shred the cooked chicken with two forks.
- In a bowl, mix 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup of cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the Parmesan-cream cheese mixture to the shredded chicken and sauce in the slow cooker.
- While the chicken cooks, prepare 8 oz (225 g) of your favorite pasta according to the package instructions.
- Drain the pasta and mix it with the chicken and sauce in the slow cooker.
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream or milk.
Nutrition
Nutrition provided is an estimate. It will vary based on specific ingredients used.