If you are craving a dish that’s the ultimate comfort food and packed with flavor, you have to try The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe. This dish brings together tender, juicy chicken, rich Parmesan cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta all enveloped in a creamy garlic sauce that feels like a warm hug. It’s effortless to prepare yet feels like a special feast, making it a guaranteed winner for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. Trust me, once you make this recipe, it will swiftly become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe. These simple but essential ingredients each play a crucial role, from making the sauce silky smooth to infusing the chicken with bold flavors and keeping the pasta wonderfully tender without becoming mushy.

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Lean and tender, these form the hearty protein base of the dish.
1 tsp garlic powder: Adds a deep, mellow garlic flavor that complements the fresh garlic perfectly.
1 tsp onion powder: Enhances the savory richness with a subtle sweetness.
½ tsp black pepper: Gives a gentle kick and balances the creaminess.
½ tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
2 cups chicken broth: Provides moisture and a fragrant base for the slow-cooked sauce.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This sharp, nutty cheese melts into the sauce for ultimate richness.
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed and softened: Brings luscious creaminess and body to the sauce.
1 tbsp minced garlic: Offers a fresh and vibrant garlic punch.
12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite): Shapes that hold sauce beautifully for every bite.
½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half: Added last for a silky finish and to prevent sauce separation.
Optional: chopped parsley or extra Parmesan for garnish: Adds color and a fresh burst of flavor just before serving.

How to Make The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Layer Your Ingredients

Start by placing your chicken breasts into the crockpot. Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper evenly over the top to infuse the chicken with layers of flavor as it cooks. Don’t rush this step — seasoning from the very beginning sets the stage for everything that follows.

Step 2: Add the Sauce Components

Next, pour in the chicken broth, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the chicken, and add the softened cream cheese cubes along with the minced garlic. These ingredients will melt together slowly, blending their flavors and creating the creamy, dreamy sauce that makes this dish truly irresistible.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is perfectly cooked through and tender enough to shred. Patience here rewards you with juicy chicken and a sauce that’s bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Shred and Stir

Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot, mixing it into the saucy, cheesy juices. This step ensures every bite has that creamy, garlicky goodness woven throughout.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta Separately

While the chicken finishes cooking, boil your pasta according to the package directions. Cooking pasta separately prevents it from becoming too soft during slow cooking and ensures it maintains that perfect al dente texture.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Cream

Drain the pasta and add it into the crockpot. Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half and stir everything together thoroughly. The addition of cream at this stage keeps the sauce smooth and velvety, coating each pasta piece with rich flavor.

How to Serve The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Before serving, elevate your dish by sprinkling on extra grated Parmesan cheese or a handful of finely chopped parsley. These not only add a pop of color but also freshen the bold, cheesy flavors with a touch of brightness that makes every forkful irresistible.

Side Dishes

This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad to balance the richness or warm toasted garlic bread to satisfy those carb cravings. Both sides add complementary textures and flavors, rounding out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For an easy crowd-pleaser, serve the pasta in individual bowls with a swirl of extra cream and a sprinkle of herbs on top. You can also transfer it into a shallow baking dish, top with more Parmesan, and broil for a few minutes to create a golden, bubbly crust that adds a delightful crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This dish holds up well, just be sure to reheat gently to keep the sauce creamy without breaking.

Freezing

You can freeze portions individually if needed, though the texture of the sauce might change slightly. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating, and stir often to bring back the luscious consistency.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture. Avoid high heat to prevent the dairy from separating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it will increase the cooking time. Make sure the chicken is cooked through before shredding; extended cooking on low is best to keep the dish tender and delicious.

What’s the best kind of pasta to use for this recipe?

Penne, rotini, or any short, sturdy pasta that can hold the sauce well works perfectly. Avoid delicate pastas like angel hair, as they may get mushy in the crockpot.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?

This recipe relies heavily on cheese and cream for its signature flavor and texture. For a dairy-free version, substitute with plant-based cream cheese and non-dairy milk alternatives, though the taste and consistency will differ.

Why do I add the cream after slow cooking?

Adding cream after cooking prevents it from separating or curdling during the slow cook. It keeps the sauce silky and smooth, which is key for The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe’s luscious texture.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients the day before and let the slow cooker do its magic when you’re ready. Mix the cooked pasta with the sauce just before serving for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a reliable, comforting, and downright delicious meal, make sure to try The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe. It’s a one-pot wonder that makes dinner feel effortless without sacrificing flavor. You’ll be amazed at how the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce and tender chicken come together to create a bowl of pure comfort. Give it a go—you might just find your new favorite weeknight meal!

The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 28 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 5 hours 15 minutes (low) or 2 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours 15 minutes (high)
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

This Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe is a creamy, comforting slow cooker dish featuring tender shredded chicken, savory garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines juicy chicken breasts with a luscious sauce made in one pot and mixed with perfectly cooked pasta for a hassle-free, family-friendly meal.

Instructions

Season the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and evenly sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper over them to infuse flavor.
Add Liquids and Cheese: Pour in the chicken broth, then add grated Parmesan cheese, softened cream cheese cubes, and minced garlic on top of the chicken to create a rich sauce base.
Cook the Chicken: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender enough to shred easily.
Shred and Combine: Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. Stir well to combine the shredded chicken with the creamy sauce.
Cook Pasta: Meanwhile, cook the pasta following package directions until al dente, then drain thoroughly to avoid overcooking when mixed with the sauce.
Mix Pasta and Cream: Add the cooked pasta to the crockpot, pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half, and stir everything together until the pasta is fully coated with the smooth, creamy sauce.
Serve: Spoon warm servings onto plates or bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or freshly chopped parsley if desired for added flavor and visual appeal.

Notes

Cook the pasta separately to prevent it from becoming mushy in the crockpot.
Add the cream after slow cooking to avoid sauce separation and maintain a smooth texture.
Using fresh garlic and freshly grated Parmesan cheese makes the flavor more vibrant and the cheese melt better.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.
This dish freezes well in individual portions; sauce texture may slightly change, but stirring during reheating will bring it back together.
Pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or toasted garlic bread for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American