Description
This Crockpot Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy days. Tender chicken breasts slow-cooked in a rich Parmesan garlic sauce with cream cheese create a luscious base that melds beautifully with cooked pasta, making a hearty and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy the whole family.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 12 ounces Parmesan garlic sauce
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cut into pieces
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Pasta
- 10 ounces dry pasta, cooked and drained
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the Crockpot: Spray the inside of the crockpot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking during cooking.
- Layer the Chicken: Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot in an even layer.
- Add Sauce: Pour the entire 12-ounce bottle of Parmesan garlic sauce evenly over the chicken breasts to cover them thoroughly.
- Add Cheeses: Distribute the 8 ounces of cream cheese pieces and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken and sauce for richness.
- Cook Chicken: Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low heat for 5-6 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Shred Chicken: Remove the lid and shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks, then stir to combine the shredded chicken thoroughly with the sauce.
- Prepare Pasta: Cook the 10 ounces of dry pasta according to package instructions; drain well once cooked.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta into the crockpot and stir to mix it evenly with the creamy chicken sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the dish with fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of color and mild heat. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Use any pasta shape you prefer, though penne or rotini hold the sauce well.
- For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some moisture to evaporate.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for 3-4 days and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- You can substitute the Parmesan garlic sauce with a homemade version using garlic, cream, and Parmesan cheese.
- Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American