Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 h
Total time: 5 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 3 cups chicken broth; 4 oz cream cheese; 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 8 oz uncooked pasta (elbow macaroni or shells)

Published: August 25, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Preparation: With minimal hands-on time, you can set it and forget it while the crockpot does all the work.
Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a deliciously creamy sauce that elevates the dish.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite pasta shape or add vegetables for a twist.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week without sacrificing taste.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this creamy chicken pasta, making it great for families.

Tools and Preparation

To make this creamy delight, you will need some essential tools that will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Crockpot
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring cups
Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Crockpot: The star of the show! It allows for hands-off cooking, letting flavors meld beautifully over time.
Cutting board & Knife: Essential for preparing your ingredients efficiently and safely.
Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure the perfect balance of flavors in your creamy sauce.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3 cups chicken broth

For the Sauce

4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Pasta

8 oz uncooked pasta (elbow macaroni or shells recommended)

For Garnish

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts flat on the bottom of your crockpot.

Step 2: Season

Sprinkle minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken.

Step 3: Add Broth

Pour chicken broth over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully covered.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds.

Step 5: Shred Chicken

Remove the chicken from the crockpot. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.

Step 6: Add Cream Cheese & Parmesan

Stir in softened cream cheese and shredded Parmesan. Mix until melted and combined into a creamy sauce.

Step 7: Add Pasta

Stir in uncooked pasta, ensuring it is submerged in the sauce.

Step 8: Cook Pasta

Cover and cook on high for 30 to 45 minutes. Stir occasionally until pasta reaches your desired tenderness.

Step 9: Optional Finish

If desired, sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover briefly to let it melt before serving.

Step 10: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

With this guide to make Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, you’re all set for an easy yet delicious meal that everyone will love!

How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can serve it in a variety of ways to please everyone at your table. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

Add a Fresh Salad

Mixed Green Salad: Toss together fresh greens with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Caesar Salad: Serve with crunchy romaine, croutons, and Caesar dressing for an added flavor boost.

Top with Extra Cheese

Parmesan Sprinkle: Grate extra Parmesan on top just before serving for that cheesy goodness.
Cheddar Blend: Mix in some shredded cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile.

Serve with Garlic Bread

Classic Garlic Bread: Toast slices of garlic bread for a buttery, crispy complement to the creamy pasta.
Cheesy Garlic Bread: Top your garlic bread with mozzarella before baking for an indulgent treat.

Incorporate Vegetables

Steamed Broccoli: Add steamed broccoli on the side for a nutritious touch and vibrant color.
Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil pairs well and adds elegance to the meal.

How to Perfect Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Perfecting your Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta can turn this already amazing recipe into an unforgettable dish. Here are some tips to help you achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh chicken and high-quality cheeses to enhance the overall flavor.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for the best taste.
Mix in Vegetables: Consider adding spinach or peas during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and flavor.
Choose the Right Pasta: Select pasta shapes that hold onto sauce well; shells or elbow macaroni work great!
Experiment with Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can add an extra layer of flavor—don’t hesitate to get creative!
Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit covered for a few minutes after cooking. This helps thicken the sauce even more.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Pairing your Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These savory sprouts add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor.
Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze bring freshness to your plate.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the creamy pasta perfectly; grill or boil as desired.
Italian Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables offers variety and flair.
Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side that pairs well with the dish.
Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the rich flavors of the pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta can be a breeze, but there are common mistakes that can lead to less-than-ideal results. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

Not using enough liquid – Ensure there’s enough chicken broth in the crockpot to cook the pasta properly. Insufficient liquid can lead to dry pasta and chicken.
Skipping the seasoning – Don’t forget to season your chicken before cooking. Adding garlic, salt, and pepper enhances the flavor of the dish significantly.
Overcooking the chicken – Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Aim for 4 to 5 hours on low for perfectly tender chicken.
Ignoring pasta cooking time – Be mindful of how long you cook the pasta in the crockpot. Cooking it for too long can result in mushy pasta. Check it frequently after 30 minutes.
Not shredding chicken properly – Shredding with two forks is key for even distribution throughout the dish. Ensure you shred it well before adding the cheese.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Let it cool before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Portion into freezer-safe containers.
It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
Microwave – Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
Stovetop – Add a splash of broth or water in a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

You can use frozen chicken breasts, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time by about an hour on low.

What pasta works best in Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

Elbow macaroni or shell pasta are great choices, but feel free to experiment with your favorite shapes!

How do I customize my Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

You can add veggies like spinach or broccoli during the last cooking phase, or substitute different cheeses based on your taste preferences.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all ingredients and store them separately. Combine them in the crockpot when you’re ready to cook.

What should I serve with Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

A side salad or garlic bread pairs well, enhancing your meal with fresh flavors and textures.

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not just easy; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can adjust it to fit your tastes by changing up pasta shapes or adding vegetables. This comforting dish will surely become a weeknight favorite—give it a try!

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