Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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

Published: November 25, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it!
Rich Flavor: The creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce elevates the dish, making it indulgent.
One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy easy cleanup with everything cooked in one pot.
Customizable: Swap pasta shapes or add veggies for a personal twist.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck, this dish impresses every time.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious pasta dish, having the right tools on hand makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Slow cooker
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Forks (for shredding chicken)

Importance of Each Tool

Slow Cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring your chicken becomes tender without constant monitoring.
Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface for chopping garlic and herbs, keeping your kitchen organized.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements to achieve the perfect flavor balance.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Base

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3 cups chicken broth
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
4 cloves garlic, minced

For Seasoning

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)
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 until the chicken is tender and easily shreds.

Step 5: Shred Chicken

Remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back into the crockpot.

Step 6: Add Cream Cheese & Parmesan

Stir in the softened cream cheese and shredded Parmesan. Mix until both cheeses melt together to form a creamy sauce.

Step 7: Add Pasta

Stir in the uncooked pasta, making sure it’s submerged in the sauce.

Step 8: Cook Pasta

Cover and cook on high for 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta reaches your desired doneness.

Step 9: Optional Finish

If desired, sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover again and let it melt for a few minutes before serving.

Step 10: Serve

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil and red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Serving Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is simple and allows for a variety of delicious options. This dish is rich and flavorful, making it perfect for both casual family dinners and special occasions. Here are some creative ways to serve it.

Add Extra Protein

Grilled Chicken Strips: Top your pasta with sliced grilled chicken for added texture and flavor.
Bacon Crumbles: Sprinkle crispy bacon on top for a savory crunch.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Chopped Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the creamy sauce.
Basil Leaves: Use fresh basil for an aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor.

Pair with Vegetables

Steamed Broccoli: Serve alongside steamed broccoli to add a healthy green element to your meal.
Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus provides a crunchy contrast and earthy flavor.

Create a Salad Bar

Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers a refreshing side with creamy dressing to balance the pasta.
Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil make a vibrant complement to this dish.

How to Perfect Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

To achieve the best results with your Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure a perfect blend of flavors and textures every time.

Use High-Quality Ingredients: Choosing fresh, high-quality chicken and cheeses significantly impacts the flavor of your dish.
Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Feel free to tweak the garlic, Italian seasoning, or salt based on your personal preference.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Stir occasionally while cooking pasta in the crockpot to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together beautifully.
Experiment with Different Pastas: Use various shapes like penne or rotini for fun presentation and texture.
Add Vegetables for Nutrition: Toss in spinach or bell peppers during the last cooking phase for added nutrients and color.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Pairing sides with your Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta can enhance your meal experience. A well-chosen side can balance flavors while adding variety. Here are some great options:

Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, garlic bread is always a favorite.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add an earthy flavor that complements the creamy sauce well.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances the meal’s comfort aspect while providing good texture.
Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms can be delightful finger food alongside your main dish.
Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): For a low-carb option, serve zoodles as a side or mix them into your pasta dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly, here are some common mistakes to avoid.

Overcooking the Chicken: If you cook the chicken for too long, it can become dry. Always check for tenderness around the 4-hour mark.
Ignoring Pasta Cooking Time: Adding pasta too early can lead to mushy noodles. It’s best to add it during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking.
Skipping Seasoning Adjustments: Each broth and cream cheese brand varies in saltiness. Taste and adjust seasoning accordingly before serving.
Not Shredding the Chicken Properly: For an even distribution of flavor, ensure you shred the chicken finely before returning it to the crockpot.
Using the Wrong Pasta Shape: Some pasta shapes cook differently. Stick with short shapes like elbow macaroni or shells for best results.

Refrigerator Storage

Store your Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in an airtight container.
It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Allow it to cool down before sealing the container to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

You can freeze leftovers for up to 2-3 months.
Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Heat on low in a saucepan, stirring gently until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if needed for moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta healthier?

You can substitute whole grain pasta or add more vegetables like spinach or broccoli to enhance nutrition without sacrificing flavor.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; just extend the cooking time by about an hour. Ensure they reach a safe internal temperature before shredding.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread. You could also serve it with steamed vegetables for added freshness.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep as it stores well and reheats nicely. Just divide into portions before storing.

Can I customize this recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices. You can also mix in vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients.

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not just easy to prepare; it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family dinner or a meal prep option, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients! Enjoy this creamy delight any night of the week!

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