Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
No weeknight dinner should be a hassle, and that’s where this easy and delicious Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta comes into play. Picture tender, juicy chicken enveloped in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce, all combined with pasta in one simple dish. It’s that comforting meal you can set and forget, making it perfect for busy days or when you crave something special without the effort. The combination of flavors and the convenience of cooking it in a crockpot makes this dish a favorite in many households, including my own!
Why you’ll love this dish
Imagine walking into your home after a long day, greeted by the delightful aroma of garlic and Parmesan wafting through the air. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. It’s a crowd-pleaser—you can count on the kids to clean their plates, and adults will rave about the flavors. What makes it stand out is its creamy texture, derived from a blend of cheeses, and its versatility. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner but could easily grace your table for a gathering or special occasion.
"This is a go-to recipe for us! It’s easy enough for weekdays but feels fancy enough for guests." – Sara T.
The cooking process explained
Ready to make this dreamy dish? The process is as simple as seasoning the chicken and letting your slow cooker do the heavy lifting. Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect:
- Start by seasoning your chicken before placing it in the crockpot.
- Pour on that delicious Parmesan garlic sauce.
- Add in the cream cheese and some milk for a creamier texture.
- Let it cook until the chicken is tender, shred it, and combine with cooked pasta.
By following these straightforward steps, you’ll have a filling and flavorful meal that comes together effortlessly.
What you’ll need
Gather these key items to bring this dish to life:
- 12 oz bottle Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce
- 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup milk
- 8 oz cream cheese, cut into cubes
- 0.25 cup grated or shredded Parmesan cheese
- 12 to 16 oz pasta (rotini or penne), cooked according to package directions
Feel free to play around with pasta shapes and sauces if you have other favorites in your kitchen!
Step-by-step instructions
- Begin by seasoning your chicken breasts with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper. Place these seasoned breasts in the bottom of your crockpot.
- Pour the entire bottle of Parmesan garlic sauce over the chicken, letting the flavors seep in.
- Take the empty sauce bottle, fill it with milk, shake it up, and then pour that over the chicken as well.
- Next, add the cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese to the crockpot. Stir gently to ensure the chicken is well-coated with the sauce.
- Cover and cook on high for 2 to 3 hours, or on low for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easy to shred.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken and either shred or dice it. Place it back into the crockpot, mixing it again with the sauce and ingredients.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare your pasta according to package directions, drain, and set aside. Then, add the cooked pasta to the crockpot, stirring everything together until well combined.
For stovetop directions:
- Cook approximately 3 cups of shredded chicken (such as leftover or rotisserie chicken).
- Cook your preferred pasta, drain, and set aside.
- In a large pot over medium heat, mix the Parmesan garlic sauce, milk, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese, stirring until creamy and well-combined.
- Add in the cooked shredded chicken, tossing to thoroughly coat.
- Let everything simmer on low for about 5 minutes.
- Before serving, consider topping with additional grated Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, and fresh parsley for some color and flavor.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving this dish can be as delightful as making it! Here are some creative ways to plate your garlic Parmesan chicken pasta:
- Serve it in deep bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a rustic feel.
- Pair with a light side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Consider garlic bread or crusty rolls on the side, perfect for scooping up every last bit of the creamy sauce.
When entertaining, a beautifully arranged platter topped with freshly grated Parmesan and herbs can impress guests without much extra effort!
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your leftovers fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish will stay good for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the dish; it should hold up fine for up to three months. When reheating, ensure that the chicken and pasta reach an internal temperature of 165°F to be safe for consumption.
Helpful cooking tips
A few simple tips can help enhance your culinary adventure:
- For added flavor, consider tossing in veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes during cooking.
- If you’re short on time, pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken can be used to cut down on prep time.
- Be mindful not to overcook the chicken, as it can dry out—check a little earlier than the recommended times if you’re using larger cuts.
Creative twists
Want to mix things up? Here are some variations to consider:
- Swap out the Parmesan garlic sauce for an alfredo or marinara sauce for a different flavor profile.
- For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños.
- Experiment with different pasta varieties or even substitute in whole grain or chickpea pasta for a healthier option.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare?
Prep takes about 10 minutes, with cook times of approximately 2 to 4 hours depending on your heat setting and chicken size.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can start with frozen chicken breasts in the crockpot. Just adjust the cooking time—it’s safe to cook from frozen but may take longer.
What if I don’t have the specific sauce?
You can use any creamy garlic sauce or create your own by blending garlic, cream, and Parmesan cheese.
Can this dish be made dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use dairy-free cream cheese and a non-dairy milk alternative to make this dish suitable for a dairy-free diet.
Enjoy this delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table!
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Season the chicken breasts with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper before placing them in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Pour the entire bottle of Parmesan garlic sauce over the chicken.
- Fill the empty sauce bottle with milk, shake it up, and pour it over the chicken.
- Add the cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese to the crockpot, stirring gently to coat the chicken.
- Cover and cook on high for 2 to 3 hours, or on low for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken, shred or dice it, and place it back in the crockpot, mixing it with the sauce.
- Prepare the pasta according to package directions, drain, and set aside.
- Add the cooked pasta to the crockpot and stir until well combined.
- Use approximately 3 cups of shredded chicken.
- Mix the Parmesan garlic sauce, milk, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese in a large pot over medium heat until creamy.
- Add in the cooked shredded chicken and toss to coat.
- Let everything simmer on low for about 5 minutes.
