Looking for a simple, comforting dinner that requires minimal effort? This crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a cozy, creamy slow cooker meal that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or busy weeknights.
Why This Crockpot Pasta Recipe Works
This dish combines tender chicken, a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta—all made right in your slow cooker. It’s a great option for anyone who wants a hearty, flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Whether you’re using a homemade sauce or a store-bought version, the recipe is easy to customize based on your taste and dietary needs.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need for the base version of this dish:
- 2–3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4–6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 bottle (12–14 oz) garlic parmesan sauce (optional – store-bought versions like Buffalo Wild Wings work well)
- 8–10 oz uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or shells recommended)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the slow cooker: Lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray.
- Add chicken and seasoning: Place chicken in the crockpot. Add broth, garlic, garlic Parmesan sauce (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Slow cook the chicken:
- On LOW: 4–6 hours
- On HIGH: 2.5–3.5 hours
- Shred chicken: Once fully cooked, remove and shred with two forks. Return to the slow cooker.
- Add creamy ingredients: Stir in cream cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan until smooth.
- Add pasta: Mix in uncooked pasta. Cover and cook on HIGH for 20–30 minutes or until pasta is tender.
- Serve: Stir once more before serving. Garnish with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley if desired.
Tips for Best Results
- Use block cream cheese: It melts more smoothly than spreadable versions.
- Check pasta early: Overcooked pasta can get mushy, so begin checking for doneness at 20 minutes.
- Warm dairy before adding: This can help prevent curdling.
- Add sauce gradually if using a store-bought version: Some commercial sauces may be saltier or more flavorful—adjust to your preference.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess.
- Freeze: You can freeze the chicken and sauce mixture (without pasta) for up to 2 months. Add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.
Dietary Modifications
Low-Carb or Keto:
- Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or low-carb alternatives.
- Use full-fat dairy ingredients without added sugars.
- Thicken sauce with a pinch of xanthan gum instead of flour.
Dairy-Free:
- Substitute with plant-based cream and cheese alternatives.
- Nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor.
Extra Protein or Veggies:
- Add spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli near the end of cooking.
- Incorporate pre-cooked bacon or white beans for additional protein.
Common Questions
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes. Add shredded rotisserie or grilled chicken during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
What’s the best pasta for this recipe?
Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells hold sauce well and maintain their texture in the slow cooker.
Can I use store-bought garlic parmesan sauce?
Absolutely. Brands like Buffalo Wild Wings offer a flavorful option that can save prep time. Adjust salt and garlic accordingly if using a pre-seasoned sauce.
Can this dish be frozen?
Yes, for best results, freeze the sauce and chicken separately. Add freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
This crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a great go-to when you want something warm, rich, and satisfying. It’s flexible enough to suit a variety of diets and simple enough for beginners. With minimal prep and one pot to clean, it’s a practical dinner solution for any night of the week.
Looking for more slow cooker recipes? Browse our full collection of easy chicken dinners for more inspiration.