Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the joy of cooking with a crockpot! It’s like having a magic kitchen fairy that does all the hard work for you while you go about your day. I absolutely adore creating cozy meals with minimal effort, and that’s exactly what my crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta brings to the table. Imagine the aroma of garlic wafting through your home as the chicken simmers away, soaking up all that delicious flavor. It’s pure comfort food!
This recipe is a personal favorite because it’s so creamy and satisfying without being overly complicated. You just toss in your chicken, garlic, and broth, let it cook low and slow, and then finish it off with a rich blend of heavy cream and parmesan. Seriously, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl! Plus, it’s super versatile—you can swap in your favorite pasta or even add some veggies if you’re feeling adventurous! Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a staple in your weekly rotation. So grab your crockpot, and let’s make some magic!
Ingredients List
For my crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create a creamy masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll want to gather:
- 2 pounds boneless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces pasta of your choice (I love using fettuccine or penne!)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
These ingredients blend perfectly, creating a luscious sauce that clings to your pasta, making every bite a delight. Don’t forget to adjust the seasoning according to your taste—it’s all about making it your own!
How to Prepare *Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta*
Alright, let’s dive into the deliciousness of making crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta! I promise you, it’s as easy as pie—well, maybe easier! Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a creamy, comforting meal waiting for you at the end of the day.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, grab your crockpot and place those lovely boneless chicken breasts right at the bottom. No need to fuss, just lay them in there like you’re tucking them in for a long nap!
- Next up, take those four cloves of minced garlic and sprinkle them over the chicken. You want to make sure every piece gets that garlicky goodness! It’s going to make your kitchen smell heavenly.
- Now pour in your one cup of chicken broth. This is where the magic starts! The broth will keep the chicken juicy and add flavor as it cooks. Season with a little salt and pepper—don’t be shy, but remember you can always adjust later!
- Set your crockpot to cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. I usually go for low because it allows all those flavors to meld beautifully. Just think of it as a slow dance for your ingredients!
- Once the cooking time is up, it’s time to shred that chicken! Use two forks and pull the chicken apart right in the crockpot. It should fall apart easily—if it doesn’t, give it a bit more time. You want it tender and juicy!
- Now, here comes the creamy part! Stir in one cup of heavy cream and one cup of grated parmesan cheese right into the shredded chicken. Oh my goodness, the creaminess will be unreal! Mix it well until everything is combined and you see that luscious sauce forming.
- While that’s happening, cook your pasta according to the package instructions. I usually go for al dente because it’ll soak up the sauce in the crockpot beautifully. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Finally, add that cooked pasta into the crockpot with your rich chicken mixture. Give it a good stir to coat every piece of pasta in that creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Trust me, you’ll want every bite to be heavenly!
- Before you serve it up, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh pop of color and flavor. It’s like the cherry on top of your delicious creation!
And there you have it! Your crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta is ready to be devoured. Serve it warm, and watch everyone go back for seconds (or thirds, no judgment here!). Enjoy that cozy meal you’ve created with such love and ease!
Nutritional Information
Before you dive into this creamy delight, it’s always good to know what you’re savoring! Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, but here’s a general breakdown for one serving of my crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta:
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 35g
This hearty meal is packed with protein from the chicken and a rich source of flavor thanks to the creamy sauce. Enjoy every bite without any guilt—after all, you made it with love!
Tips for Success
To make sure your crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta turns out absolutely perfect, here are a few tips from my experience in the kitchen:
- Seasoning is Key: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process. A little extra salt or pepper can really elevate the flavor!
- Cooking Time: If you’re short on time, cooking on high for 3-4 hours works great, but I highly recommend low and slow for that melt-in-your-mouth chicken. It really allows those flavors to deepen.
- Pasta Choices: Feel free to get creative with your pasta! Whether you want to use whole wheat, gluten-free, or even a fun shape like bowties, it all works beautifully.
- Adding Veggies: If you want to sneak in some veggies, toss in some spinach or broccoli during the last hour of cooking. They’ll wilt perfectly and add a pop of color!
- Leftover Love: If you have leftovers, it’s just as delicious the next day! Just reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to restore its creaminess.
With these tips in hand, you’re all set to create a dish that’s not only simple but oh-so-satisfying. Happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to mix things up a bit, there are so many fun ways to customize your crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta! Here are a few of my favorite variations:
- Different Pasta Types: Switch things up by using different pasta shapes! Bowtie, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta can add a delightful twist.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in some chopped spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini during the last hour of cooking. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients and color!
- Herb Infusion: Add a sprinkle of dried herbs like Italian seasoning, basil, or thyme to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor. Fresh herbs can also brighten up the dish just before serving.
- Spicy Kick: If you love some heat, try adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. It’ll give your dish an exciting zing!
- Cheesy Goodness: For an even creamier texture, add more cheese! A mix of mozzarella or a touch of cream cheese can elevate the richness.
With these variations, you can easily make this dish your own and keep it fresh and exciting every time! Enjoy your culinary creativity!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Rich, creamy flavor that’ll satisfy your comfort food cravings.
- Minimal cleanup—everything cooks in one pot!
- Great for meal prep; leftovers taste even better the next day.
- Customizable with your favorite pasta or veggies.
- A crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving my crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta, I love to keep it simple yet delicious! This creamy pasta dish is already quite filling, but there are some fantastic sides that can elevate your meal even more.
First up, a fresh garden salad is always a hit. Toss together some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. You can also add some roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli—trust me, they pair beautifully with the creamy sauce!
If you’re feeling fancy, some garlic bread or a crunchy baguette for dipping is a must! It’s perfect for soaking up every last bit of that flavorful sauce. And don’t forget a light drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of parmesan on top of your salad or veggies to tie everything together! Enjoy your meal, and watch it vanish from the table in no time!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta is super simple! Just transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week.
When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, I recommend reheating them on the stove for the best texture. Just add a splash of chicken broth or a bit of heavy cream to keep it nice and creamy, then heat it over medium-low, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also use the microwave if you’re in a hurry—just cover it to prevent splatters and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
With these tips, you’ll keep that delicious flavor intact, and you can savor your creation all over again!
PrintCrockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Comfort in Every Bite
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy and flavorful dish made with chicken, garlic, and parmesan, cooked slowly in a crockpot.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces pasta of your choice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- Add minced garlic and chicken broth.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks.
- Stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions and drain.
- Add cooked pasta to the crockpot and mix well.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if desired.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta