Okay, picture this: Is it It’s a Tuesday night, you’re exhausted, the kids are starving, and the thought of spending hours in bed is mind blowing. What makes you want to hide in the pantry with a bag of chocolate chips? Does it sound familiar? What is a Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta? Recipe, comes to the rescue. Is it easier to Make than lasagna or pasta? If you love Alfredo pasta, but hate stirring and watching, this is your new favorite pasta. The creamy, cheesy sauce coats tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. My family devours it every single time! Is it the comfort food of a mac and cheese? I’ll keep this recipe around for a while; trust me on this one.

What is a Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

Think of it as the ultimate lazy-person’s Alfredo. Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is basically your favorite creamy pasta dish. What is the magic of slow cooking? How do you toss chicken, pasta, garlic, parmesan, and a few other goodies into your crockpot? After a few hours, and boom – dinner is served. What is my favorite dump-and-go recipe? What is the best way to cook chicken and pasta? What is the best way to cook in a sauce? No boiling water, no complicated steps, just pure, unadulterated comfort food.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

What are some of the best flavor combinations? What are the ingredients in this savory sauce? What I love about this is how easy it is to throw together. Is it possible to cook in a crockpot for 10 minutes? Is it a lifesaver on busy nights? Chicken and pasta are pretty economical, and you probably already have most of the other ingredients. What is in your pantry? I love the versatility of a phone. What are some ways to add veggies like broccoli or spinach to your salad? Why can’t we throw in bacon crumbles? Is it even better than my regular Baked Chicken parmesan pasta? I also tried this with gluten free pasta; I was shocked at how good it came out! What are some of my favorite pasta recipes?

How do I make crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta?

Quick Overview

What’s your favorite crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken pasta recipe? What is the best way to cook in a crockpot? What happens when the chicken cooks in the creamy sauce, infusing everything with flavor. What is the best part? No need to pre-cook pasta. It cooks right in the sauce, absorbing all that deliciousness. What is the easiest way to get a healthy meal on the table with minimal effort?

Ingredients

For the Main Event:
* 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually get the organic ones, but any will do. Make sure they’re not too thick, or they might take longer to cook. * 1 lb pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne): I have used all sorts of pasta, even gluten-free, and it always turns out great. Is fettuccine a must? Freshly minced garlic is a must for the best flavor. Don’t even think about using the jarred stuff. * 1 cup heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce super creamy. If you’re feeling virtuous, you can substitute half-and-half for a white wine. It won’t be quite as rich. * 4 cups chicken broth: Low sodium is the way to go so you can control the saltiness. * 1 cup Parmesan cheese: Again, freshly grated is best! Is it safe to eat pre-shredded stuff? Butter adds richness and helps the sauce thicken up. * 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: 1 tablespoon dried. This adds a nice depth of flavor. Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t be shy with seasoning! It really brings out the flavors.

Optional Extras:
* 1 cup chopped broccoli or spinach: Add these in the last 30 minutes of cooking for a boost of veggies. * 1/2 cup cooked bacon crumbles: Because bacon! * Red Pepper flakes: For a little kick.

What are the steps to

Step 1: Layer the Chicken

Place the Chicken Breasts in the bottom of the crockpot. I always make sure they’re in a single layer so they cook evenly.

Step 2: Add the Good Stuff

Sprinkle the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the chicken. Then, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream.

Step 3: Pasta Time

What is the best way to cook pasta in a crockpot? Break the pasta in half if needed to fit.

Step 4: Cheese and Butter

Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over pasta, and then dot the top with butter pieces. What is that creamy, cheesy sauce we all crave?

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be cooked through, and the pasta must be tender. I always check my chicken with a meat thermometer to make sure it’s at 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Shred and Stir

Once the chicken is cooked, shred it with two forks right in the crockpot. When the sauce is smooth and creamy, stir everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired. I also like to add a side of garlic bread for dipping in the sauce. Yum!

5. What to Serve It With

What should I serve it with?

What is a good crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta? What is the best way to elevate the whole meal? What are the sides of a car?

What is a good weeknight dinner?A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect counterpoint to the rich, creamy pasta. I love using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers and a lemon vinaigrette. Is it better to throw a bag salad in tupperware?

For a Fancy Dinner:What are some of the best ways to roast asparagus or broccoli? Just toss them with olive oil, salt and pepper, and roast until tender-crisp. What are some ways to incorporate veggies into a dish?

As a Cozy Comfort Meal: Garlic bread is a must! I like to buy a loaf of French bread, slather it with Garlic Butter, and bake it until golden brown. Seriously, dipping the bread in the sauce is the best part. Serve warm alongside.

For a complete meal:Add a side of crusty bread or breadsticks to soak up all that delicious sauce. What is a caprese salad?

Who gets the last piece of garlic bread? Is it a tradition in our house to have ‘sauce-dipping contest’ with garlic bread? I know this is silly, but it makes dinner time more fun.

How do I make a Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

Okay, I’ve made this recipe countless times, so I’ve learned a few tricks along the way. Here’s my expert advice:

Chicken Choice: What areUse boneless chicken breasts for the best results. They cook evenly and shred easily. If you’re using frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely before adding it to the crockpot. If you add too much water to a sauce, it will make it watery.

Pasta Perfection:Don’t overcook pasta! I usually add it in the last hour of cooking, or even less if I’m using a faster-cooking pasta like lasagna. Why is pasta al dente, not mushy?

Garlic Power: Freshly minced garlic is key to the flavor of this dish. Don’t skimp on the garlic, and don’t use the jarred stuff. Trust me on this one.

Cheese Please:How do you use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melting and flavor. Is pre-shredded stuff a real problem?

Sauce Consistency:If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, you can thicken it by stirring in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water. Do you use a tablespoon of cold water during cooking?

Veggie Boost:Add veggies like broccoli, spinach, or peas in the last 30 minutes of cooking for a boost of flavor. What are some tips to avoid overcooking pasta?

Spice It Up: Add a pinch of Red Pepper flakes for a little kick. Or, for a more complex flavor, try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika.

Storing and Reheating Tips

This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is even better the next day! Here’s How to store and reheat it:

Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing it.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta. Divide it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, you can microwave the pasta in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Or, you can reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce. I prefer the skillet method because it helps the pasta retain its texture.

Extra Sauce: If the pasta seems dry after reheating, add a little extra chicken broth or cream to moisten it up. You can also stir in a pat of butter for added richness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can! Chicken thighs will be even more tender and flavorful. Just make sure to trim off any excess fat before adding them to the crockpot. You may need to cook them for a bit longer than chicken breasts.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any type of pasta will work in this recipe. Just keep in mind that different types of pasta may cook at different rates, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this in the Instant Pot instead?

Yes, you can! Layer the ingredients in the Instant Pot as directed, and then cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes. Then, quick release any remaining pressure. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and butter, and serve. This is a great option if you’re short on time.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can! Add your favorite veggies, such as broccoli, spinach, peas, or carrots, in the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will prevent them from becoming overcooked.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, you can! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk, and use a dairy-free Parmesan cheese alternative. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious. You could even add nutritional yeast, it will give the dish a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – my go-to Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe. It’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. The creamy, cheesy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta are just irresistible. It’s also super versatile, so you can customize it to your liking. If you’re looking for an easy and Delicious Comfort Food Recipe, this is it. And it is easier than the basic garlic parmesan chicken recipe! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Please let me know in the comments if you tried it out or not! Happy cooking!

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