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Who doesn’t love a rich, creamy pasta dish that practically melts in your mouth? This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food—packed with juicy, slow-cooked chicken, a velvety parmesan cream sauce, and perfectly tender pasta. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a cozy meal to savor, this dish delivers bold flavors with minimal effort.
Made effortlessly in a crockpot, this recipe allows the garlic and parmesan to infuse every bite with deep, savory goodness. The best part?This one-pot dish keeps cleanup minimal, giving you more time to savor every bite.
Pair it with garlic bread or a crisp side salad for a restaurant-quality dinner right at home. Ready to master this crowd-pleaser? Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
If you’re looking for a meal that’s both effortless and indulgent, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta checks all the boxes. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with bold flavors that come together beautifully in a slow cooker, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend dinner. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor – Let the crockpot do the work while the chicken slowly soaks up the garlic butter sauce and parmesan goodness.
- Velvety, Cheesy Perfection – A luxurious blend of cream cheese, heavy cream, and parmesan creates a silky sauce that coats every strand of pasta.
- Family-Friendly & Crowd-Pleasing – This dish is a guaranteed hit, whether you’re serving it to kids, guests, or just treating yourself.
- Easily Customizable – Swap the pasta, add a little heat with red pepper flakes, or toss in some crisp bacon for extra indulgence.
- One-Pot Wonder – Less mess, less stressWith everything cooking together, you’ll have fewer dishes and more convenience.
With all these irresistible qualities, it’s no wonder this recipe is a go-to favorite. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to bring this dish to life!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into cooking, let’s gather everything you need for this rich and creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Each ingredient plays a key role in building bold flavors and velvety texture, so don’t skip the essentials!
For the Chicken & Sauce:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Tender and juicy when slow-cooked.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – The star of the show, bringing deep, savory flavor. (In contemporary times, garlic is promoted as a dietary supplement aimed at managing high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and enhancing immune function. Research indicates that garlic supplements may slightly reduce total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels in individuals with elevated cholesterol. Additionally, there is limited evidence suggesting a modest reduction in blood pressure among those with hypertension. )
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A perfect mix of herbs to elevate the dish’s flavor.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a touch of warmth and depth.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – A little heat balances the richness.
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted – Helps create a smooth and silky sauce.
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream – The base for a luxurious, creamy texture.
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened – Adds extra richness and thickens the sauce.
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese – The key to that signature cheesy, nutty flavor.
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth – Infuses the chicken with moisture and enhances the sauce.
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rotini) – Choose your favorite; each works well for soaking up the sauce.
- Salt (for boiling water) – Essential for flavorful pasta.
Optional Add-Ins & Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley or basil – A pop of color and fresh aroma.
- Crispy bacon bits – Adds crunch and a smoky bite.
- Extra parmesan cheese – Because you can never have too much!
Now that you’ve got everything ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step process for making this irresistible dish in your crockpot!
How to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Making this creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in a slow cooker is incredibly easy. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a rich, flavorful dish that tastes like it came from a restaurant. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts – Rub them with Italian seasoning, black pepper, and red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Place the chicken in the slow cooker – Nestle it at the bottom so it can soak up all the delicious flavors as it cooks.
- Add the garlic and butter – Sprinkle minced garlic over the chicken and drizzle with melted butter for a rich, garlicky base.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Sauce
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream – This creates a flavorful, velvety cooking liquid.
- Add the cream cheese – Cut it into cubes and distribute evenly for easy melting.
- Sprinkle in the parmesan cheese – This is where the cheesy magic happens!
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours (or HIGH for 2-3 hours) – The chicken should be fork-tender and easy to shred.
- Shred the chicken – Use two forks to pull it apart right in the slow cooker, letting it absorb the creamy sauce.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
- Boil pasta according to package instructions – Salt the water generously for extra flavor.
- Drain and add pasta to the slow cooker – Stir well to coat every piece in the rich, cheesy sauce.
Step 5: Final Touches & Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning – Add more parmesan, salt, or red pepper flakes if needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil – A fresh, vibrant finish to balance the richness.
Serve hot with garlic bread or a crisp side salad, and enjoy a comforting, restaurant-quality meal at home!
Tips and Delicious Variations
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is already packed with flavor, but there are plenty of ways to customize it to your liking. Here are some expert tips and delicious variations to make this dish truly your own!
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Use freshly grated parmesan – It melts better than pre-packaged cheese and adds a richer, creamier texture to the sauce.
- Don’t overcook the pasta – For the best consistency, cook the pasta until just al dente before adding it to the slow cooker. It will continue to absorb the sauce.
- Adjust the sauce consistency – If it’s too thick, stir in a little more chicken broth or heavy cream before servingIf the sauce is too thin, let it rest for a few minutes to thicken naturally.
- For extra depth of flavor – Sauté the garlic in butter before adding it to the slow cooker to bring out its natural sweetness.
- Boost the creaminess – Stir in a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving for an extra luscious texture.
Tasty Variations to Try
- Make it spicy – Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for a fiery kick.
- Add veggies – Toss in spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers for extr color and nutrition.
- Swap the protein – Instead of chicken breasts, try using boneless chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful bite. You can also use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick version.
- Go low-carb – Swap the pasta for zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly twist.
- Make it extra indulgent – Stir in a handful of mozzarella cheese for an even cheesier, gooier sauce.
With these tips and variations, you can customize this creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta to fit your taste and dietary preferences. No matter how you make it, it’s guaranteed to be a comforting, flavor-packed meal!
Serving Suggestions
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is already rich and satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can take your meal to the next level. Whether you’re looking for something light and refreshing or extra indulgent, here are some delicious ways to serve it.
Perfect Side Dishes
- Garlic Bread – A classic choice. The crispy, buttery edges are perfect for soaking up every drop of the creamy parmesan sauce.
- Crisp Side Salad – A fresh Caesar salad or a simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables – Try oven-roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for added texture and a touch of caramelized sweetness.
- Steamed Green Beans – A light, nutritious option that complements the creamy sauce without overpowering it.
How to Elevate the Presentation
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs – A sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil adds a fresh, vibrant touch.
- Extra Parmesan – A final dusting of grated parmesan right before serving makes the dish even cheesier and more indulgent.
- A Drizzle of Olive Oil – A little extra virgin olive oil on top can enhance the flavors and add a subtle richness.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – For those who love a little spice, a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes gives a mild heat that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
With these serving ideas, your creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta will not only taste incredible but also look restaurant-worthy. Enjoy it fresh and hot for the ultimate comfort food experience!
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, you’ll want to store it properly to keep it fresh and flavorful. Since creamy pasta dishes can sometimes dry out when reheated, following the right storage and reheating methods will ensure it stays just as delicious the next day.
How to Store
- Refrigeration – Let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing – While the pasta can be frozen, dairy-based sauces can sometimes separate. To maintain the best texture, freeze the sauce and pasta separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Reheating for the Best Texture
- Stovetop Method – Warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk, heavy cream, or chicken broth to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. Stir gently until heated through.
- Microwave Method – Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. If needed, stir in a bit more liquid to adjust the consistency.
- Oven Method – If reheating a larger portion, place the pasta in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 300°F (150°C) for about 15 minutes. Add a bit of liquid before baking to keep it from drying out.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Avoid overheating, as dairy-based sauces can break and become grainy.
- Stir well after reheating to ensure even heat distribution and a smooth sauce.
- If frozen, let the pasta thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta just as rich and satisfying as when it was first made!
garlic parmesan chicken pasta
Ingredients
- Ingredients You’ll Need
- Before we dive into cooking let’s gather everything you need for this rich and creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Each ingredient plays a key role in building bold flavors and velvety texture, so don’t skip the essentials!
- For the Chicken & Sauce:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts – Tender and juicy when slow-cooked.
- 4 cloves garlic minced – The star of the show, bringing deep, savory flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A perfect mix of herbs to elevate the dish’s flavor.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a touch of warmth and depth.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional – A little heat balances the richness.
- 4 tablespoons butter melted – Helps create a smooth and silky sauce.
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream – The base for a luxurious creamy texture.
- 4 ounces cream cheese softened – Adds extra richness and thickens the sauce.
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese – The key to that signature cheesy nutty flavor.
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth – Infuses the chicken with moisture and enhances the sauce.
- For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces pasta penne, fettuccine, or rotini – Choose your favorite; each works well for soaking up the sauce.
- Salt for boiling water – Essential for flavorful pasta.
- Optional Add-Ins & Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley or basil – A pop of color and fresh aroma.
- Crispy bacon bits – Adds crunch and a smoky bite.
- Extra parmesan cheese – Because you can never have too much!
- Now that you’ve got everything ready let’s move on to the step-by-step process for making this irresistible dish in your crockpot!
Instructions
How to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Making this creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in a slow cooker is incredibly easy. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a rich, flavorful dish that tastes like it came from a restaurant. Let’s get started!
- Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts – Rub them with Italian seasoning, black pepper, and red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Place the chicken in the slow cooker – Nestle it at the bottom so it can soak up all the delicious flavors as it cooks.
- Add the garlic and butter – Sprinkle minced garlic over the chicken and drizzle with melted butter for a rich, garlicky base.
- Step 2: Create the Creamy Sauce
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream – This creates a flavorful, velvety cooking liquid.
- Add the cream cheese – Cut it into cubes and distribute evenly for easy melting.
- Sprinkle in the parmesan cheese – This is where the cheesy magic happens!
- Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours (or HIGH for 2-3 hours) – The chicken should be fork-tender and easy to shred.
- Shred the chicken – Use two forks to pull it apart right in the slow cooker, letting it absorb the creamy sauce.
- Step 4: Cook the Pasta
- Boil pasta according to package instructions – Salt the water generously for extra flavor.
- Drain and add pasta to the slow cooker – Stir well to coat every piece in the rich, cheesy sauce.
- Step 5: Final Touches & Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning – Add more parmesan, salt, or red pepper flakes if needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil – A fresh, vibrant finish to balance the richness.
- Serve hot with garlic bread or a crisp side salad, and enjoy a comforting, restaurant-quality meal at home!
FAQ
Got questions about making the perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta? Here are some common concerns and expert tips to help you achieve the best results every time.
1.Can I swap the pasta for another variety?
Absolutely! While penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work wonderfully, you can swap in rotini, rigatoni, or bowtie pasta for a fun texture. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta also works—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. How do I prevent my sauce from becoming too thick?
If your sauce thickens too much, simply add a splash of warm milk, chicken broth, or pasta water while stirring. This will bring back the creamy consistency without diluting the flavor.
3. Can I make this meal beforehand?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta separately, storing them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce on low heat, add the pasta, and stir in a bit of cream or broth to refresh the texture.
4. How can I make this dish healthier?
For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese, skim milk, or Greek yogurt in place of heavy cream. You can also substitute zucchini noodles or chickpea pasta to reduce carbs while keeping the dish satisfying.
5. What proteins can I substitute for chicken?
If you’d like to change things up, try using shrimp, turkey, or even tofu as a protein alternative. Just adjust the cooking time based on the protein choice to ensure it’s fully cooked.
6. Which cheese adds the most flavor to this dish?
While Parmesan is the star of this dish, you can mix in Asiago, Romano, or mozzarella for a deeper, more indulgent cheesy taste.
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is versatile and easy to customize, making it a perfect go-to meal. Have a question not covered here? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to help!