Make this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for a deliciously creamy and comforting meal. Tender chicken, rich garlic flavors, and perfectly cooked pasta create a dish you will fall in love with.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and a hands-off cooking approach, it allows you to spend more time with your loved ones. The slow cooker does all the hard work, infusing the chicken with rich garlic and parmesan flavors. You will love how creamy and comforting this dish is, making it perfect for chilly evenings or a family gathering. Enjoy a meal that feels indulgent yet is incredibly simple to prepare!
Recipe Profile
This recipe serves 6-8 people, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep. The total time is around 2-4 hours and 10 minutes, including cooking and prep time. Using a crockpot ensures that the chicken stays juicy and flavorful. Plus, the creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the pasta, creating a satisfying, well-rounded dish that everyone will love.
Key Ingredients
Gather these key ingredients for a delicious Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:
Chicken
You’ll need 1.5 to 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. This option provides lean protein while remaining tender and juicy during cooking.
Sauces
A 12 oz bottle of Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce acts as the primary flavor base, offering a rich and tangy profile that enhances every bite.
Dairy
You’ll incorporate 1 cup of milk and 8 oz of cream cheese, which together create a creamy texture. A quarter cup of grated or shredded parmesan cheese adds a nutty richness.
Pasta
For this recipe, you’ll need 12 to 16 oz of pasta, like rotini or penne, cooked according to package directions. These shapes hold the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Instructions
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then place it in the crockpot.
- Pour the entire bottle of parmesan garlic sauce over the chicken.
- Shake the milk in the empty sauce bottle and pour it over the chicken.
- Add the cream cheese and parmesan cheese to the crockpot, stirring to combine.
- Cook on high for 2 to 3 hours or low for 3 to 4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred or dice the chicken and return it to the slow cooker.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, drain, and add it to the crockpot, stirring to mix all the ingredients.
Top Tips for Success
To ensure your dish turns out perfectly, follow these tips. Always season your chicken before adding the sauces for maximum flavor. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer after shredding the chicken. For a personalized touch, feel free to adjust the amount of garlic sauce based on your taste preference. Finally, make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it holds its texture when mixed with the creamy sauce.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to fit various dietary preferences.
Vegetarian Option
For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with a medley of your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms.
Low-Carb Option
If you are watching your carbs, skip the pasta and serve the creamy garlic sauce over steamed vegetables or cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal.
Pasta Alternatives
Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes, such as fusilli or farfalle. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be excellent alternatives.
Storage and Reheating
This dish can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. If you want to keep it longer, it freezes well for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You can add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it thickens during storage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use uncooked pasta in the slow cooker with the chicken and sauce mixture?
It is not recommended to use uncooked pasta directly in the slow cooker. Cook the pasta separately and add it at the end for the best texture.
What can be done if the sauce turns out too thick or too thin after cooking?
If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of milk to thin it out. If it’s too thin, cook it longer with the lid off to reduce and thicken.
Is it possible to use frozen chicken breasts, or do they need to be thawed first?
You can use frozen chicken breasts, but increase the cooking time by an hour or so to ensure they cook through.
Are there recommended substitutes for the cream cheese or heavy cream to make the dish lighter?
You can use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt as a lighter substitute for cream cheese.
Can a different type of cheese, such as mozzarella, be used instead of or in addition to Parmesan?
Yes, you can add mozzarella for a cheesy twist or substitute it for part of the parmesan for a different flavor.
Conclusion
Enjoy this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for an easy, delicious meal. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s perfect for any occasion. Cozy up with a warm bowl tonight, and savor every comforting bite!
For more Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta tips and ideas, explore our Slow Cooker Recipes Collection, and find even more inspiration on Pinterest!
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- crockpot
- Large pot
Ingredients
- 1 bottle Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce
- 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts trimmed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup milk
- 8 oz cream cheese cut into cubes
- ¼ cup grated or shredded parmesan cheese
- 12 to 16 oz pasta such as rotini or penne, cooked to package directions
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt and pepper, then place it in the crockpot and pour the parmesan garlic sauce over it.
- Shake the milk in the empty sauce bottle and pour it over the chicken, then add cream cheese and parmesan cheese, stirring to combine.
- Cook on high for 2 to 3 hours or low for 3 to 4 hours, then shred or dice the cooked chicken and return it to the slow cooker.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain, and add it to the crockpot, stirring to mix.
Notes
