Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for Creamiest Results

Creamy crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta brings comfort straight to your dinner table with minimal effort.

Weeknight meals become magical when you can toss ingredients into one appliance and walk away.

Home cooks adore simple solutions that taste incredible without complicated techniques.

Tender chicken pieces nestle among perfectly cooked pasta strands, infused with rich garlic and parmesan notes.

Mediterranean flavors blend seamlessly in this hearty dish that satisfies deep hunger pangs.

Busy families will appreciate how quickly this meal comes together with just a few strategic ingredients.

Let this recipe become your secret weapon for delicious, stress-free dinners that everyone will eagerly request.

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for a Comfort Meal

  • Toss ingredients into the crockpot and let it work its magic, freeing you to tackle other tasks while dinner slowly simmers.
  • Combine the creamy, cheesy sauce with tender shredded chicken and perfectly cooked pasta for a meal that satisfies everyone from kids to adults.
  • Create a hearty, one-pot wonder that brings the whole family together, offering a warm and comforting dining experience without complicated cooking techniques.

Ingredients List for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Protein Base:
  • Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that becomes tender and easily shredded in the slow cooker. Boneless and skinless recommended for best texture.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Rich, salty cheese that adds depth and creaminess to the dish. Freshly grated is best for more intense flavor.
Dairy Components:
  • Cream Cheese: Creates a smooth, rich sauce and helps bind ingredients together. Full-fat version provides best consistency.
Sauce and Seasoning Elements:
  • Parmesan Garlic Sauce: Provides primary flavor profile for the chicken and pasta. Store-bought or homemade sauce works well.
  • Fresh Parsley: Bright, fresh herb for garnish that adds color and light herbal note.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Optional spicy element to enhance overall dish flavor.
Pasta Component:
  • Pasta: Starchy base that absorbs sauce and completes the meal. Medium-sized pasta shapes like penne or rotini work best.
Cooking Preparation:
  • Non-Stick Cooking Spray: Ensures easy cleanup and prevents ingredients from sticking to crockpot.

Cooking Instructions Using the Crockpot Method

Step 1: Prep the Slow Cooker Surface

Grab your crockpot and give it a quick spray with non-stick cooking spray to prevent any stubborn sticking.

Step 2: Layer the Protein

Nestle chicken breasts into the bottom of the crockpot, creating a tender protein base for your delicious meal.

Step 3: Build Flavor Layers

Pour a luxurious Parmesan garlic sauce over the chicken, then top with:
  • Cream cheese
  • Grated Parmesan cheese

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the crockpot and let the magic happen:
  • Low setting: 5-6 hours
  • High setting: 3-4 hours

Cook until chicken becomes fork-tender and thoroughly done.

Step 5: Transform Chicken

Pull chicken from the crockpot and use two forks to shred into bite-sized pieces. Return shredded chicken back into the creamy sauce, mixing thoroughly.

Step 6: Pasta Finale

Boil pasta according to package directions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. Drain completely and fold into the saucy chicken mixture, ensuring every strand gets coated with rich, cheesy goodness.

Step 7: Serve and Savor

Sprinkle with:
  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Dish up while warm and enjoy your comforting culinary creation!

Tips for a Rich Sauce and Tender Chicken

  • Prevent Pasta Mushiness: Cook pasta separately to maintain perfect texture and avoid overcooking when mixed with the creamy sauce.
  • Maximize Flavor Depth: Let chicken marinate in garlic Parmesan sauce for extra taste by adding seasoning before slow cooking.
  • Cheese Melting Trick: Cut cream cheese into small cubes to help it melt more evenly and create a smoother, more consistent sauce.
  • Protein Swap Option: Replace chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier, more tender meat that absorbs sauce beautifully.
  • Dietary Modification: Use gluten-free pasta and low-fat cream cheese to make this recipe suitable for specific dietary needs while maintaining delicious flavor profile.

Best Ways to Store Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

  • Store leftover chicken pasta in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping it fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Transfer cooled pasta to freezer-safe containers, where it can maintain quality for up to 2 months. Seal tightly to prevent freezer burn.
  • Warm gently in microwave with a splash of water or milk, stirring every 30 seconds to prevent drying out. Heat until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • Defrost overnight in refrigerator, then warm in microwave or skillet, adding extra liquid to restore moisture and prevent sticking.

Sides That Pair with This Pasta Dish

  • A crisp Chardonnay cuts through the creamy sauce, balancing the rich garlic and cheese flavors with its bright acidity and subtle oak undertones.
  • Toss a fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to provide a zesty, peppery contrast that refreshes the palate between creamy pasta bites.
  • Serve warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce, adding a delightful crunch and enhancing the garlic notes in the dish.
  • Roast colorful vegetables like asparagus or broccoli with olive oil and sea salt to add nutritional balance and a light, earthy counterpoint to the rich pasta.

Tasty Variations for Crockpot Chicken Pasta

  • Gluten-Free Variation: Replace regular pasta with gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a celiac-friendly option.
  • Low-Carb Version: Swap pasta with cauliflower rice or spaghetti squash to reduce carbohydrate intake.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use dairy-free cream cheese alternative and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for lactose-intolerant individuals.
  • Spicy Herb Remix: Add red pepper flakes, fresh basil, and oregano to create a more intense flavor profile for those wanting extra kick.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 22 reviews

  • Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Succulent Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta delivers comfort in one hearty dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. Warm kitchen aromas and rich flavors invite families to gather around the table for a satisfying meal that promises delightful simplicity.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Proteins:

  • 2 pounds (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Pasta and Cheese:

  • 12 ounces (340 g) dry pasta (such as rotini or penne)
  • 8 ounces (225 g) cream cheese, cut into pieces
  • ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese

Sauces and Garnishes:

  • 12 ounces (340 ml) Parmesan garlic sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crockpot by lightly coating the interior with non-stick cooking spray to prevent ingredients from sticking during the cooking process.
  2. Carefully arrange whole chicken breasts at the base of the slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly positioned.
  3. Create a flavorful base by generously pouring the Parmesan garlic sauce directly over the chicken, allowing it to completely cover the meat.
  4. Enhance the creamy texture by strategically placing cream cheese and grated Parmesan on top of the chicken, which will melt and infuse rich flavors during cooking.
  5. Secure the crockpot lid and select your preferred cooking time: slow cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken becomes incredibly tender and fully cooked.
  6. Carefully extract the chicken from the liquid and use two forks to meticulously shred the meat into soft, delicate pieces.
  7. Return the shredded chicken to the sauce, gently stirring to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated with the creamy Parmesan mixture.
  8. Simultaneously prepare the pasta in a separate pot, cooking until it reaches the perfect al dente consistency according to package instructions.
  9. Drain the pasta completely and transfer it directly into the crockpot, mixing gently to ensure every strand is lavishly coated with the rich, garlicky sauce.
  10. For a final touch of freshness and color, sprinkle chopped parsley and optional red pepper flakes over the dish.
  11. Serve the pasta immediately while piping hot, allowing the creamy sauce and tender chicken to tantalize your taste buds.

Notes

  • Enhance flavor by browning chicken in a skillet before adding to crockpot for deeper caramelized taste.
  • Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or low-fat milk for a lighter, healthier version without sacrificing creaminess.
  • Prevent pasta from becoming mushy by cooking separately and adding just before serving to maintain perfect texture.
  • Create gluten-free option by using alternative pasta like chickpea, zucchini noodles, or gluten-free pasta varieties.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5-6 hours
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 60 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 40 g
  • Cholesterol: 100 mg
Daves Miller

Daves Miller

Contributing Chef & Culinary Educator

Expertise

  • American Southern cuisine with a modern twist.
  • Instruction in culinary fundamentals and advanced techniques.
  • Development of recipes that highlight seasonal and local produce.​
  • Mastery of artisanal bread and pastry techniques, from laminated doughs to decorative sugar artistry.

Education

Sullivan University, Louisville, Kentucky

  • Degree: Associate of Science Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Specialized in cooking techniques and culinary sciences, hands‑on externships, professional kitchen lab training, and career preparation for restaurants, entrepreneurship, and global culinary opportunities.

White Mountains Community College, Berlin, New Hampshire

  • Program: Baking and Pastry Arts degree
  • Focus: Specialized in comprehensive baking and pastry arts, including bread making, artisan breads, cake decorating and design, chocolates, confections, and decorative centerpieces; product development and baking theory; and career preparation for baker and pastry chef roles in many places.

Daves is the friendly face guiding you through flavorful, fuss-free recipes at Picture Perfect Meals. 

He studied culinary arts at Sullivan University and embraced Baking and Pastry Arts at White Mountains Community College. Daves specializes in comforting meals with vibrant flavors, highlighting fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star