Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a comforting, easy-to-make meal where tender chicken simmers slowly with creamy Parmesan, garlic, and broth to create a luscious sauce. Tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and finished with cream, this dish offers rich, indulgent flavors and a satisfying texture perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.
- Author: Jeannette
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-5 hours (slow cooker low) or 2-3 hours (slow cooker high) plus 10 minutes pasta cooking
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes to 5 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
Sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite type)
Finishing Touches
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Optional: chopped parsley or extra Parmesan cheese for garnish
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the crockpot. Sprinkle evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to season the meat thoroughly.
- Add Sauce Ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth, then add the grated Parmesan cheese, cubed cream cheese, and minced garlic on top of the chicken. Do not stir; just layer the ingredients.
- 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 through and tender enough to shred easily.
- Shred the Chicken: Using two forks inside the crockpot, shred the chicken pieces directly and mix gently to combine them with the creamy sauce, ensuring an even coating.
- Cook the Pasta: While the chicken is finishing, cook the pasta separately according to the package instructions. Drain well to avoid excess water diluting the sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta into the crockpot with the shredded chicken and sauce. Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half, then stir everything together until the pasta is thoroughly coated in the creamy Parmesan sauce.
- Serve: Spoon the pasta onto plates or bowls and top with additional grated Parmesan cheese or freshly chopped parsley if desired for a fresh, flavorful finish.
Notes
- Cook pasta separately to avoid overcooking and maintain a firm, al dente texture.
- Add cream after slow cooking to prevent sauce separation and keep the texture smooth and rich.
- Use fresh garlic and freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the most robust flavor and best melting results.
- 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.
- Freeze in single portions if necessary—note the sauce texture may change slightly but will improve when reheated and stirred.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or toasted garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1 1/2 cups)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: crockpot chicken pasta, garlic parmesan chicken, slow cooker pasta recipe, creamy chicken pasta, easy slow cooker meals, comfort food pasta