Introduction to Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
As a busy mom, I know that after a long day, the last thing I want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That’s why I absolutely adore my Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. It’s a creamy delight that brings my family together around the dinner table without the stress. With just a few ingredients, this dish transforms into a savory masterpiece while I tackle chores or take a breather. Imagine coming home to the comforting aroma of garlic and cheese wafting through your home, making it a dinner time to remember!
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a lifesaver for busy evenings. You’ll love how effortlessly it comes together, with ingredients that meld into a creamy sauce that hugs every strand of pasta. Plus, it’s perfect for picky eaters, making dinner stress-free. In just four hours, you’ll have a warm, comforting dish that everyone will rave about. What’s not to love?
Ingredients for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This dish features a delightful medley of ingredients that blend beautifully to create a sumptuous meal. In this recipe, you’ll find boneless, skinless chicken breast, which is both lean and versatile, making it a fantastic base for our creamy sauce. Seasoned with fine sea salt and ground black pepper, these staples elevate the dish with basic yet essential flavor profiles.
Smoked paprika brings a subtle smokiness, while onion powder adds depth. Italian herb seasoning gives an authentic touch, making every bite reminiscent of cozy family dinners. The star of the show is undoubtedly the garlic, minced to infuse the dish with its robust essence.
Now let’s talk sauces! I use Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan sauce for that irresistible flavor punch. It’s just the right amount of richness to complement the Alfredo sauce, which adds creaminess to the mix. The dried pasta, preferably Cellentani or a similar short shape, perfectly holds the sauce, providing texture and heartiness.
For that extra cheesy goodness, I add finely grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella, both of which melt beautifully into the dish. Finally, a sprinkle of dried parsley offers a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
You’ll find exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of the article if you’re looking to print. Feel free to tweak the ingredients according to your pantry or taste preferences; after all, cooking is all about making it your own!
How to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
To kick off this delicious recipe, you’ll want to start with your chicken. Place the boneless, skinless chicken breast right into your slow cooker. Don’t forget to sprinkle fine sea salt, ground black pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and Italian herb seasoning all over the chicken. These spices will awaken the flavors, creating a savory base. This is where the magic begins. Every sprinkle adds depth, so take a moment to embrace the delicious potential of these ingredients!
Step 2: Add Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Next up, it’s time for that glorious garlic Parmesan sauce! Pour enough Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan sauce over your seasoned chicken to fully coat it. This sauce is not just any sauce; it’s the flavor bomb that will take this meal to a whole new level. The garlic mingles beautifully with the chicken, creating a mouthwatering aroma as it cooks. Then, add the Alfredo sauce on top for extra creaminess. The combination will make your heart sing with joy!
Step 3: Slow Cook
Now comes the waiting game, but trust me, it’s worth it! Set your slow cooker to low and let it do its thing for about four hours. This low-and-slow method allows those flavors to meld beautifully while the chicken becomes tender and juicy. If you’ve got a busy day ahead, embrace the convenience of this step. You can tackle errands or relax while your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta cooks to perfection!
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once your chicken is cooked and oh-so-tender, it’s time for the fun part: shredding! Carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and use two forks to shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces. The chicken should practically fall apart with minimal effort, showing you just how well it’s cooked. Return the shredded chicken back to the slow cooker, allowing it to mingle with those creamy, flavorful sauces. Every shred soaks up this deliciousness!
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
While your chicken finishes its cooking dance, let’s get that pasta ready! In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your Cellentani pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Timing is key here—don’t let it get mushy! After cooking, drain the pasta well and set it aside. You want it to be ready for a creamy union with that amazing sauce!
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Now comes the delightful stage of combining everything. In your slow cooker, add the grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese right into that velvety sauce. Stir gently until the cheeses melt and the sauce turns smooth and creamy. Then, toss in your cooked pasta, making sure every delicious piece is well-coated. The pasta should soak up all that cheesy goodness and feel like a warm hug in a bowl!
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Your culinary masterpiece is nearly complete! Portion out the creamy crockpot pasta into bowls, making sure to include a generous amount of the delicious sauce. A sprinkle of dried parsley on top adds a beautiful touch of color and freshness. If you’re feeling fancy, serve with a slice of crusty bread or a refreshing salad on the side. Enjoy every comforting bite—this meal is sure to become a favorite in your home!
Tips for Success
- Make sure the chicken is fully coated with sauce for maximum flavor.
- Adjust garlic Parmesan sauce levels to suit your taste; more is always better!
- Ensure pasta is al dente to avoid mushiness when combined.
- Serve immediately for the best texture, but this dish reheats wonderfully.
- Feel free to add your favorite veggies for extra nutrition and flavor!
Equipment Needed for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Slow cooker – a versatile essential for making this dish effortlessly.
- Large pot – necessary for boiling pasta; you can use any deep pot.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure proper ingredient ratios.
- Two forks – perfect for shredding the chicken easily.
- Serving bowls – to present your creamy creation with flair.
Variations of Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Add veggies like spinach, broccoli, or peppers for a nutritional boost and vibrant color.
- Swap out chicken for turkey or even a meat alternative for a different protein option.
- Make it lighter by using low-fat Alfredo sauce or Greek yogurt instead of cream.
- For a spicy kick, incorporate red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- Use gluten-free pasta to adapt this recipe for gluten-sensitive family members.
Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Pair with a crisp green salad drizzled with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve alongside crusty garlic bread to soak up that creamy sauce.
- For drinks, consider a chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio to complement the flavors.
- Garnish each bowl with fresh basil for an aromatic touch.
FAQs about Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
As with any beloved dish, you might have some questions about Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Let’s dive into some common queries that pop up!
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts; just keep in mind that you may need to add an extra hour to the cooking time. The slow cooker will safely cook the chicken while infusing it with all those delicious flavors.
Can I substitute the Alfredo sauce?
Definitely! If Alfredo isn’t your thing, feel free to experiment with a different creamy sauce, like a cheese sauce or even a homemade creamy mushroom sauce. Just ensure it complements the garlic Parmesan theme.
How do I store leftovers?
To store your savory Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, allow it to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to four days. You can also freeze it for up to three months; just thaw before reheating!
What can I serve with this dish?
This pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. For something heartier, serve alongside garlic bread for that delightful cheesy dip!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep everything the night before—season the chicken, add the sauces, and place it in the slow cooker. Just pop it in the fridge and let it slowly cook the next day for a hassle-free dinner.
Final Thoughts
Every time I serve up my Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, I can feel the joy it brings to my family. This recipe is not just about filling stomachs; it’s about creating moments, laughter, and connection around the dinner table. I love how easy it is to prepare, leaving me time to unwind or help with homework. Plus, the creamy, garlicky goodness has a way of making everything feel right in the world. I encourage you to embrace this culinary journey and savor the comfort it brings. Trust me; this will become a cherished favorite in your home!
Print
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A creamy and flavorful dish featuring chicken cooked in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce, served over pasta.
Ingredients
- 450 g boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2.5 g fine sea salt
- 2.5 g ground black pepper
- 5 g smoked paprika
- 5 g onion powder
- 5 g Italian herb seasoning blend
- 15 g minced garlic
- Sufficient Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan sauce to cover chicken (approximately 120 ml)
- 425 g Alfredo sauce (1 jar)
- 450 g dried Cellentani pasta or similar short pasta shape
- 25 g finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 100 g shredded mozzarella cheese
- Dried parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Place chicken breast into the slow cooker. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Add minced garlic and pour enough garlic Parmesan sauce to fully coat the chicken. Top with Alfredo sauce.
- Set slow cooker to low and cook for approximately 4 hours, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender.
- Remove chicken from the slow cooker, shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces, then return it to the slow cooker.
- While chicken finishes cooking, boil pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
- Add grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella to the slow cooker. Stir until cheeses are melted and sauce is smooth.
- Add cooked pasta to the slow cooker. Mix thoroughly to ensure pasta is evenly coated. Finish with a sprinkle of dried parsley.
- Portion into bowls and serve immediately.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of garlic Parmesan sauce to taste.
- Any short pasta shape can be used if Cellentani is not available.
- This dish can be frozen for later use; reheat before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg
