Introduction
Welcome to a comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite—Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta! This delightful recipe combines tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and rich cream into an irresistible meal that practically cooks itself. With the magic of slow cooking, this meal transforms simple ingredients into a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that fills your home with warmth. Perfect for busy weeknights or a gathering with friends, you’ll appreciate how effortlessly this dish comes together. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta (penne or rotini works well)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 7 hours (or 4 hours on high)
Total Time: 7 hours 10 minutes (or 4 hours 10 minutes on high)
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot, allowing space for all the wonderful flavors to mingle.
- Add the minced garlic, ensuring it’s evenly distributed over the chicken. The aroma of garlic will infuse the dish beautifully!
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, creating a luscious base for the sauce. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning along with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours, or if you’re short on time, on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and incredibly tender.
- Once ready, take two forks and shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. This step allows all the flavors to blend wonderfully!
- Now, stir in the uncooked pasta and grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt and create a rich, creamy sauce.
- Cover and continue cooking on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
- Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes or Tips
For a little extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the mix! You can also swap out the heavy cream for light cream for a slightly lighter version. Leftovers? This dish reheats beautifully, making it a perfect meal prep option!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes the slow cooking technique, which allows the chicken to become incredibly tender while melding the flavors of garlic and Parmesan together perfectly. Shredding the chicken in the crockpot ensures it absorbs all the creamy goodness, while cooking the pasta in the sauce means it’s packed with flavor in every bite.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken?
No problem! Just increase the cooking time by a couple of hours on low or about an hour on high.
What type of pasta works best?
Penne and rotini are great choices as their shapes hold onto the sauce wonderfully. You can also try gluten-free pasta if needed!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and refrigerate them. In the morning, just pop everything in the crockpot and let it do its thing!
Conclusion
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. This recipe brings together the convenience of slow cooking with delicious flavors that your family will adore. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy dinner for two, this dish is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, set up your crockpot, and let the magic happen! Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!