If you’re on the hunt for a comforting and delicious dinner that practically cooks itself, look no further than this Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. This recipe is designed for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or any time you crave a warm, hearty meal without the fuss. With just a few simple ingredients tossed into your slow cooker, you can create a creamy, flavorful pasta dish that your entire family will love. Imagine coming home after a long day to the irresistible aroma of garlic and Parmesan wafting through your kitchen. That’s the magic of this recipe!
Not only is this dish easy to prepare, but it also incorporates wholesome ingredients, making it a healthier choice than takeout. Plus, it’s versatile! You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you choose to add veggies, switch up the protein, or try different types of pasta, the possibilities are endless. So, gather your ingredients and let’s dive into how to make this scrumptious Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
First and foremost, the convenience of the crockpot is a game changer. Just set it and forget it! The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld wonderfully, resulting in tender chicken that practically falls apart and a creamy sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. Imagine a busy day where the only thing you need to do is toss everything into the crockpot in the morning and let it work its magic while you go about your day. No need to stand over the stove or monitor the oven; your slow cooker does all the hard work for you.
This recipe also stands out because it is incredibly family-friendly. Kids and adults alike will adore the rich, cheesy flavor of the sauce combined with the slight kick of garlic. You can also sneak in some vegetables, such as spinach or broccoli, to boost the nutritional content without sacrificing taste. This means you can feel good about serving it to your loved ones.
Additionally, the Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is perfect for meal prep. You can easily double the recipe and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. It’s an ideal option for those who want to cook once and eat multiple times, saving you both time and effort in the kitchen. Plus, it freezes well, so you can stash away extra servings for busy nights when cooking from scratch is not an option!
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This recipe is not just easy; it’s also incredibly forgiving. If you’re new to cooking or don’t have a lot of time, you can still manage to whip this dish together with minimal fuss. The ingredients are straightforward and readily available at your local grocery store. You don’t need any special culinary skills or advanced kitchen gadgets; all you need is a crockpot and a few staple ingredients.
Moreover, the flavor profile is rich and satisfying, making it a delightful option for any occasion whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a potluck with friends, or even a romantic date night at home. The combination of garlic and Parmesan is timeless and beloved, ensuring that everyone at your table is happy.
If you’re concerned about dietary preferences or restrictions, this Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta can also be adapted. Consider swapping the chicken for a plant-based protein or using a gluten-free pasta. The creamy sauce can be made dairy-free by substituting the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative. This flexibility makes it an excellent choice for various dietary needs!
Ingredients and Necessary Utensils
To create this delectable Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini works well)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
In addition to the ingredients, you will need some essential cooking utensils:
- A crockpot (slow cooker)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A cutting board
- A sharp knife
- Two forks (for shredding the chicken)
- A serving spoon
These simple tools will help you successfully prepare this dish without any hassle.
Detailed Recipe Steps
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s go through the steps to make your Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. This ensures they get the most moisture and flavor during the cooking process.
- Add the Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream over the chicken. This combination will create a rich and creamy sauce that will envelop the pasta beautifully.
- Season: Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine everything. This step infuses the chicken with flavor and sets the base for the sauce.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Avoid lifting the lid too often to maintain the cooking temperature.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and shred them using two forks. This method is quick and effective. Return the shredded chicken back to the crockpot.
- Add the Pasta: Stir in the uncooked pasta into the crockpot. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked to your liking. Make sure to check occasionally to ensure the pasta is not overcooked.
- Add Cheese: Once the pasta is tender, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. This will enhance the dish with that signature cheesy flavor!
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Enjoy your delicious Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta! This dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts in your crockpot. Just make sure to extend the cooking time by an hour or so. However, it’s important to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Penne and rotini are both excellent choices for this recipe as they hold the sauce well. You can also use any pasta you have on hand, just keep an eye on the cooking time!
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How do I store leftovers of Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze portions for later use; just make sure to thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I add vegetables to this pasta dish?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers. Just add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking to ensure they remain tender yet crisp.
In conclusion, the Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a must-try for anyone looking for a simple yet satisfying meal. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and ease of preparation, it’s destined to be a hit in your home. Don’t forget to let us know how it turned out for you leave a comment or share your thoughts! Happy cooking!
For more delicious recipes, check out our other posts, such as High Protein Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce and Taco Stuffed Peppers. You can also find inspiration on our Pinterest page for even more culinary delights!

Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- Crockpot
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Forks
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups Chicken broth
- 1 cup Heavy cream
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- 8 ounces Pasta (penne or rotini)
- for garnish Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
- Add the Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream over the chicken.
- Season: Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine everything.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back to the crockpot.
- Add the Pasta: Stir in the uncooked pasta into the crockpot. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked to your liking.
- Add Cheese: Once the pasta is tender, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.