Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
A comforting bowl of pasta with tender chicken cooked in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, perfect for busy weekdays.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite)
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Optional: chopped parsley or extra Parmesan for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Clear a designated workspace in your kitchen to avoid clutter.
- Gather all your ingredients and utensils: crockpot, measuring cups, and mixing spoons.
- Wash your veggies and cut your chicken into even pieces to ensure consistent cooking.
Seasoning and Cooking
- Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt evenly over both sides of the chicken.
- Lay the seasoned chicken breasts flat at the bottom of the crockpot.
- Pour the chicken broth gently over the chicken.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
- Add the cubed cream cheese and minced garlic, ensuring an even distribution.
- Cover the crockpot and set it on Low for 4-5 hours or High for 2-3 hours.
- After cooking, check the internal temperature of the chicken—ideally at 165°F. If not fully cooked, give it more time.
- Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken in the crockpot and stir everything gently to mix the shredded chicken with the sauce.
Cooking the Pasta
- Boil salted water in a separate pot and add the pasta.
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Combining Everything
- Add the drained pasta into the crockpot with the shredded chicken and sauce.
- Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half, mixing everything together until the pasta is well coated.
Serving
- Scoop the creamy pasta into serving bowls.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or additional Parmesan cheese.
- Serve warm and enjoy the compliments from your family and friends!
Notes
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream if it seems too thick.