Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal Prep: Simply add all the ingredients to the crockpot and let it cook while you go about your day.

• Creamy & Flavorful: The combination of cream cheese, parmesan, and garlic creates a luscious sauce that coats the chicken and pasta beautifully.

• Family Favorite: With its rich flavors and comforting texture, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

• Versatile Ingredients: Easily adaptable with different pasta shapes or additional ingredients like vegetables or spices.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• 2–3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)

• 1 bottle (12 ounces) garlic parmesan sauce

• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese

• 4 ounces cream cheese

• 1/4 cup milk (2% or whole milk recommended)

• 1 box (16 ounces) rotini pasta

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: Fresh parsley and red pepper flakes for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Spray the insert of the crockpot with nonstick cooking spray.

2. Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.

3. Pour the entire bottle of garlic parmesan sauce over the chicken.

4. Fill the empty sauce bottle with milk, shake to combine any remaining sauce, and pour it over the chicken.

5. Add the cream cheese and grated parmesan cheese on top.

6. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender.

7. Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to combine.

8. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and add the cooked pasta to the crockpot. Stir to combine and coat the pasta with the sauce.

9. Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 8

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 6–8 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high

• Total Time: 6–8 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for added heat.

• Vegetable Add-ins: Include steamed broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Different Pasta Shapes: Swap rotini for penne, bowtie, or rigatoni to change the texture and presentation.

• Creamier Sauce: Stir in a bit of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking for an even richer sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

It’s not recommended to cook frozen chicken breasts in a crockpot due to food safety concerns. Always thaw chicken in the refrigerator before cooking.

Can I cook the pasta in the crockpot?

While some recipes suggest cooking pasta directly in the crockpot, it’s best to cook it separately to prevent overcooking and ensure the sauce maintains its desired consistency.

Can I use a different brand of garlic parmesan sauce?

Yes, you can use any garlic parmesan sauce you prefer. Adjust the amount based on your taste preferences and the brand’s flavor intensity.

Is it necessary to shred the chicken?

Shredding the chicken allows it to absorb more of the sauce and ensures even distribution throughout the dish.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the dish.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Incorporate red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce into the sauce mixture to add heat.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier and more flavorful result. Adjust cooking time as needed.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe if your crockpot is large enough. Ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed for consistent cooking.

Can I freeze leftovers?

While you can freeze leftovers, the texture of the pasta may change upon reheating. It’s best to freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the pasta.

How do I reheat frozen leftovers?

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of milk or broth to restore the sauce’s consistency.

Conclusion

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful, hassle-free meal that combines the richness of garlic, parmesan, and tender chicken with the heartiness of pasta. Its versatility allows for various adaptations to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.