Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

If you’re looking for a cozy and satisfying dinner that practically cooks itself, then you’re in for a treat with my beloved Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. This dish is like a warm hug in a bowl—perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty without the hassle. The creamy garlic sauce envelops tender chicken and pasta, making it a family favorite that everyone will love. Plus, it’s great for gatherings or meal prep, providing a delicious solution for any occasion.

What makes this recipe special is how simple it is. You can toss everything into the crockpot and let it do all the work while you take care of other things. Trust me; once you smell that rich garlic aroma wafting through your home, everyone will be eager to gather around the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: Just throw everything in the crockpot and let it cook—no fuss!
• Delicious and creamy: The combination of garlic and parmesan creates a rich flavor that everyone adores.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting pasta dish.
• Perfect for leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.
• Customizable: Feel free to add veggies or switch up the protein to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! You won’t need anything fancy here—just simple, wholesome items that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need for your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:

For the Sauce

• 1 (12 oz) bottle Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce
• 1 cup milk

For the Chicken

• 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (trimmed)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper

For the Creaminess

• 8 oz cream cheese (cut into cubes)
• ¼ cup grated or shredded parmesan cheese

For the Pasta

• 12 to 16 oz pasta, such as rotini or penne (cooked to package directions)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily change things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey breast or shredded rotisserie chicken instead of chicken breasts for quicker prep.
• Add some veggies: Toss in broccoli florets or spinach during the last hour of cooking for extra nutrients.
• Make it spicy: If you like a kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños.
• Change up the pasta: Try using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.

How to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with kosher salt and fresh pepper. This step is essential as it enhances the flavors right from the beginning. Place them in the bottom of your crockpot, creating a solid base for all those delicious sauces to come.

Step 2: Add the Sauce

Now, pour an entire bottle of that creamy Parmesan garlic sauce over your seasoned chicken. This sauce is what gives our dish its rich flavor and velvety texture. Don’t forget to shake some milk in the empty sauce bottle before pouring it over too; we want every drop of that goodness!

Step 3: Mix in Creaminess

Next, add in your cream cheese cubes and grated parmesan cheese directly into the crockpot. Gently stir everything together until well combined. This mixture will melt beautifully as it cooks, creating an irresistible coating for our chicken.

Step 4: Let It Cook

Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on high for 2 to 3 hours or low for 3 to 4 hours. The goal here is tender chicken that shreds easily—this means patience pays off! As it cooks, those heavenly aromas will fill your kitchen.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the pot onto a plate or cutting board. Using two forks, shred it into bite-sized pieces or chop it up if you prefer smaller bits. Return this shredded goodness back into your crockpot so it can soak up more flavor.

Step 6: Cook Your Pasta

While your chicken finishes cooking, prepare your pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and then fold it into the crockpot with everything else. Give it a good stir so every piece gets coated with that delectable sauce!

And there you have it—a warm bowl of comfort food ready to be served! Enjoy your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with family and friends; I promise they’ll be asking for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Creating a delicious meal in your crockpot is a breeze, and these tips will help you make the most of your experience!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality garlic parmesan sauce can significantly enhance the flavor of your dish, ensuring it tastes as good as it looks.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to customize the salt and pepper according to your preference. Everyone’s palate is different, and adjusting spices can make the dish perfectly suited to your family’s taste.
• Consider adding vegetables: Tossing in some fresh spinach or broccoli during the last hour of cooking not only adds nutrition but also brightens up the dish with color and texture.
• Make it ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare everything the night before, store it in the fridge, and simply pop it into the crockpot in the morning for an easy dinner later.
• Leftover magic: Don’t worry if you have leftovers! They can easily be reheated for lunch or transformed into a comforting pasta bake by adding a little extra cheese and baking it until bubbly.

How to Serve Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This creamy pasta dish is not only comforting but also beautifully satisfying on its own. However, there are several ways to elevate your presentation!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds a vibrant green touch that brightens up the dish and complements its rich flavors.
• Grated parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of extra parmesan right before serving enhances the cheesy goodness and adds visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A warm slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that delicious creamy sauce. It’s a classic pairing that everyone loves!
• Caesar salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with a light dressing and croutons provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli brings both color and nutrition to your plate while balancing out the heaviness of the pasta.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth of flavor and are a wonderful way to incorporate more nutrients into your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta will not only taste amazing but will also impress anyone at your dinner table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not only a delicious dish but also a fantastic option for meal prep. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, you can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, make sure the pasta is fully cooled before portioning into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Remember to leave some space in the container, as the sauce may expand when frozen.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat in a saucepan on medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions; cover with a microwave-safe lid and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:

Can I use other sauces for this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe?

Absolutely! While the Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce adds a unique flavor, feel free to experiment with other garlic or cream-based sauces that suit your taste.

How do I ensure my Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta turns out creamy?

To achieve a creamy consistency, make sure you mix the cream cheese thoroughly into the sauce. Cooking on low heat will also help meld the flavors beautifully.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes! The creamy texture and mild flavors of Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta are generally loved by kids. You might find yourself making this recipe regularly!

Can I add vegetables to my Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

Definitely! Adding veggies like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers can enhance both nutrition and flavor. Just toss them in during the last hour of cooking.

What type of pasta works best with this recipe?

Pasta shapes like rotini or penne are great choices because they hold onto the sauce well. However, feel free to use any pasta that your family enjoys!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this comforting Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving something warm and satisfying. This recipe truly shines with its blend of flavors and ease of preparation. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations with me! Happy cooking!