Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful slow cooker dish that brings together the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan with tender chicken. Ideal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this recipe stands out for its simplicity and comfort. With minimal prep time required, you can set it and forget it, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep. The creamy sauce enveloping the pasta creates a mouthwatering experience that’s sure to impress everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation – Simply add ingredients to the crockpot and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor – The combination of garlic and parmesan delivers a savory taste that elevates your meal.
• Versatile Dish – Perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to special gatherings.
• Family-Friendly – A hit among kids and adults alike, making mealtime enjoyable for everyone.
• Comforting Meal – Creamy pasta dishes are a classic comfort food that warms the heart.

Tools and Preparation

To make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, having the right kitchen tools will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Crockpot or slow cooker
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mixing spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Crockpot or slow cooker – This is essential for creating a hands-off cooking experience while ensuring your chicken stays juicy and flavorful.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements guarantee the perfect balance of flavors in your dish.
• Cutting board – Provides a safe surface for cutting chicken and prepping ingredients.
• Mixing spoon – Allows you to easily combine ingredients in the crockpot.

Ingredients

For the Sauce and Chicken

• 1 (12 oz) bottle Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce
• 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (trimmed)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper

For the Creamy Base

• 1 cup milk
• 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: Season the Chicken

First, season your chicken breasts with kosher salt and fresh pepper. Place them in the bottom of your crockpot or slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Sauce

Pour the entire bottle of parmesan garlic sauce over the seasoned chicken.

Step 3: Incorporate Milk

Take an empty sauce bottle, add milk, replace the cap, and shake well. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.

Step 4: Mix in Cream Cheese

Add cream cheese cubes and grated parmesan cheese into the crockpot. Stir gently to combine everything while ensuring that chicken is covered with sauce.

Step 5: Set Cooking Time

Cook on high for 2 to 3 hours or on low for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked through.

Step 6: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate or cutting board. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces before returning it back into the slow cooker.

Step 7: Cook Your Pasta

While your chicken cooks, prepare pasta according to package directions. Drain well once cooked and add it directly into the crockpot. Stir thoroughly to mix all ingredients.

Now you have an easy-to-make meal that’s packed with flavor! Enjoy your delicious Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta!

How to Serve Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a casual gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal experience.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and parmesan cheese complements the creamy pasta.
• Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Add Bread Options

• Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic and butter enhances the meal’s savory notes.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm rolls are perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce on your plate.

Serve with Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: A simple side that adds color and nutrients; just steam until tender.
• Roasted Asparagus: Drizzled with olive oil and seasoned, this dish brings a slight crunch to your meal.

Garnish Creatively

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds brightness and a pop of color to the dish.
• Extra Parmesan: Offering additional grated parmesan at the table allows guests to customize their servings.

How to Perfect Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

To make sure your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta turns out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold seasoning: Don’t hesitate to season your chicken more generously. This enhances the flavor throughout the cooking process.
• Cream cheese tips: Ensure that your cream cheese is at room temperature before adding it to the crockpot for easier blending.
• Pasta timing: Add the cooked pasta right before serving to keep it from getting mushy in the sauce.
• Adjust thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of milk slightly or cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes.
• Add vegetables: Incorporate veggies like spinach or bell peppers into the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Complement your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with these delightful side dishes. Each option enhances the overall meal while providing balance and variety.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad featuring mixed greens dressed in vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the pasta.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs add heartiness to your meal.
3. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini provides a healthy, flavorful addition that pairs well with chicken.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a touch of sweetness and is fun to eat alongside pasta.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity, making it an excellent counterbalance to creamy dishes.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate and add sweetness after a rich meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish from good to great.

• Using Too Much Liquid: Adding excess liquid can make the dish soupy. Stick to the recommended amount of sauces and milk for the best texture.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can lead to dry meat. Follow the cooking times closely to keep your chicken tender and juicy.
• Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting to season the chicken with salt and pepper can result in bland flavors. Always season your ingredients properly before cooking.
• Not Shredding Chicken Properly: Failing to shred the chicken well can lead to uneven distribution in the pasta. Shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces for better mixing.
• Underestimating Pasta Cooking Time: If you don’t cook the pasta according to package directions, it may be too soft or too firm. Pay attention to timing for perfect pasta every time.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.
• Label the container with a date for easy tracking.

Freezing Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
• Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta gluten-free?

You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Just cook it according to package instructions and follow the rest of the recipe as is.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just increase the cooking time by about an hour on low heat, ensuring they reach a safe internal temperature.

What can I add for extra flavor?

To enhance flavors, consider adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers during cooking. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley also work well as a garnish.

Is Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta healthy?

This dish is hearty but still offers a balance of protein and carbs. You can modify ingredients like using low-fat cream cheese or adding more veggies for added nutrition.

How do I customize this recipe?

Feel free to swap out seasonings or add other ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or even different types of cheese based on your taste preferences.

Conclusion

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is an easy-to-make meal that brings comfort and flavor together. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have at home. Give this delicious recipe a try and enjoy a flavorful dinner that everyone will love!

---