Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a fantastic dish that combines convenience and flavor, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. This slow cooker meal is not only simple to prepare but also delivers rich, creamy goodness with every bite. Perfect for gatherings or a comforting meal at home, this recipe stands out for its versatility and satisfying taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation: Simply toss your ingredients into the crockpot, and let it do all the work!
• Rich flavor: The combination of garlic and parmesan creates a savory sauce that enhances the chicken and pasta.
• Family-friendly: With its creamy texture and delicious taste, this dish appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile ingredients: Feel free to customize the pasta type or add vegetables to suit your preferences.
• Meal prep friendly: This recipe is perfect for making ahead, allowing you to enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful dish, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools that make cooking easier.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking while infusing flavors over time, ensuring tender chicken.
• Measuring cups: Ensure accurate ingredient portions for consistent results every time.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for prepping your chicken and other ingredients.

Ingredients

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a hearty slow cooker dish that’s perfect when you need an easy dinner recipe.

For the Sauce

• 1 (12 oz) bottle Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce
• 1 cup milk

For the Chicken

• 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (trimmed)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper

For the Creamy Base

• 8 oz cream cheese (cut into cubes)
• ¼ cup grated or shredded parmesan cheese

For the Pasta

• 12 to 16 oz pasta, such as rotini or penne (cooked to package directions)

How to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with kosher salt and fresh pepper. Place them in the bottom of your slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Sauce and Milk

Pour the entire bottle of parmesan garlic sauce over the seasoned chicken. Then, add milk to the empty sauce bottle, shake well, and pour this mixture over the chicken.

Step 3: Incorporate Cream Cheese and Parmesan

Add cubed cream cheese and parmesan cheese directly into the crockpot. Stir gently to combine everything well so that the chicken is coated in sauce.

Step 4: Cook It Low and Slow

Cover your crockpot and cook on high for 2 to 3 hours or on low for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 5: Shred or Dice Chicken

Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate or cutting board. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces or dice it if you prefer smaller chunks. Return it back into the slow cooker.

Step 6: Cook Your Pasta

Prepare your chosen pasta according to package directions. Once cooked, drain well before adding it into the crockpot with the chicken mixture. Stir everything together until well combined.

Enjoy your delicious Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta!

How to Serve Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful and creamy dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your meal, here are some serving suggestions that will complement the flavors of this comforting recipe.

Serve with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Crunchy Delight: Serve slices of warm garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce.

Add a Side Salad

• Refreshing Crunch: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta.

Top with Extra Cheese

• Cheesy Goodness: Consider garnishing each serving with more grated parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy kick.

Include Roasted Vegetables

• Healthy Option: Roasted broccoli, carrots, or zucchini add nutrition and texture to your meal.

Serve in a Bowl

• Comforting Presentation: For a cozy dining experience, serve the pasta in deep bowls, making it easy to enjoy every bite.

How to Perfect Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

To ensure your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Bold Seasoning: Always season your chicken well before cooking. This enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Cream Cheese Consistency: Make sure to cube the cream cheese before adding it to the crockpot; this helps it melt evenly.
• Pasta Timing: Cook the pasta separately just before serving, so it remains firm and doesn’t get mushy in the sauce.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove some liquid before adding pasta and let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes.
• Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on low heat.
• Experiment with Ingredients: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta can enhance your meal even further. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with garlic make a perfect companion.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a fresh crunch and bright color.
3. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the creamy dish beautifully.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs well with creamy flavors and adds sweetness.
6. Bruschetta: Tomato bruschetta brings a fresh element that balances out hearty meals.
7. Fried Zucchini Chips: Crispy zucchini chips provide a fun texture contrast alongside pasta.
8. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad loaded with veggies is nutritious and filling without being heavy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are a few to keep in mind.

• Bold seasoning: Skipping seasoning can leave your dish bland. Always ensure to season your chicken with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Bold overcooking: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Stick to the recommended cooking times for the best texture.
• Bold improper mixing: Failing to mix ingredients properly can lead to uneven flavors. Stir well after adding each ingredient to ensure everything is coated evenly.
• Bold neglecting pasta timing: Adding pasta too early can result in mushy noodles. Cook it according to package instructions and stir it in just before serving.
• Bold ignoring leftovers: Not storing leftovers properly can lead to spoilage. Make sure to refrigerate or freeze leftovers quickly.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2–3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy reference.

Reheating Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• Bold Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-25 minutes or until warm.
• Bold Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Bold Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delicious slow-cooked meal featuring tender chicken, creamy parmesan sauce, and pasta.

How do I customize Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition or use different pasta shapes based on your preference.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts directly in the crockpot; however, cooking time may need slight adjustments.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prep, making it easier to enjoy throughout the week.

How spicy is this recipe?

The recipe is mild; however, you can adjust spice levels by adding red pepper flakes or using a spicier sauce if desired.

Conclusion

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not only simple but also a versatile dish that you can adapt to your family’s tastes. With options for customization and easy storage, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting meal!

---