Get ready to experience a comforting and flavorful dish that’s incredibly easy to prepare.
This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is creamy, garlicky, and absolutely delicious, making it perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Suitable For:
- Serves: 4-6 people
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
The necessary ingredients (possible in all kinds of variations)
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, fusilli, or your favorite shape)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Alternative ingredients:
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
- Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
- For a dairy-free option, use dairy-free cream cheese and milk alternatives.
Steps
The steps of preparation (possible in all kinds of variations)
Preparing this creamy, cheesy, and garlicky pasta in a Crockpot is simple and fuss-free, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort.
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your Crockpot.
- Add chicken broth, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken breasts from the Crockpot and shred them using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the Crockpot.
- Add the cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and butter to the Crockpot. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is well combined.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and add the pasta to the Crockpot.
- Stir to coat the pasta with the creamy sauce and chicken.
- Cook on low for an additional 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutritional Benefits
This comforting dish not only pleases the palate but also offers several nutritional benefits:
- High in Protein: Chicken provides essential protein for muscle repair and growth.
- Rich in Calcium: Parmesan cheese and cream cheese contribute to your daily calcium intake.
- Contains Garlic: Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties and anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Carbohydrates for Energy: Pasta provides a good source of carbohydrates, fueling your body with energy.
Possible Additions or Upgrades
- Vegetables: Add steamed broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrients and color.
- Bacon: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits on top for added crunch and flavor.
- Spice: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Zest: Add a hint of lemon zest for a fresh, citrusy note.
- Cheese Topping: Top with extra grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese before serving.
Questions and Answers
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but extend the cooking time by 1-2 hours to ensure they are fully cooked.
What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rotini work well to hold the sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dish as instructed and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, feel free to use cheeses like mozzarella or Romano for a different flavor profile.
How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?
Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the sauce. Cook on high for a few minutes until it thickens.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.
Can I cook the pasta in the Crockpot?
You can add uncooked pasta directly to the Crockpot in the last 30 minutes of cooking, but ensure there’s enough liquid to cook the pasta properly.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, add shredded pre-cooked chicken in the last hour of cooking to heat through.
What can I serve with this dish?
Serve with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
How can I make it dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cream cheese, almond milk, and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
Enjoy creating and savoring this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, a dish that promises to be a hit with family and friends. Don’t forget to share your delicious creation on social media and let others know about this fantastic recipe!
