When life gets busy, nothing feels better than having a warm, hearty dinner waiting in the slow cooker. This Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is pure comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor that makes you feel right at home. With tender chicken, rich parmesan, and perfectly cooked pasta all coming together in a creamy sauce, this recipe is the kind of cozy meal that brings everyone to the table. It’s simple, family-friendly, and one of those dinners you’ll want to keep in your weekly rotation.
Recipe Info:
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dinner, Pasta | 10 mins | 4–5 hrs | 6 | ~465 per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
- 1 bottle (16 oz) Garlic Parmesan sauce (like Buffalo Wild Wings or store brand)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 16 oz (1 lb) pasta of choice (penne, rotini, or spaghetti)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Prepare your slow cooker. Lightly spray or butter the insert to prevent sticking.
- Add the chicken. Place chicken breasts in the crock pot. Season with garlic powder and black pepper.
- Pour the sauce. Add the Garlic Parmesan sauce and chicken broth over the chicken. Top with softened cream cheese.
- Cook low and slow. Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until chicken is tender.
- Shred the chicken. Once done, shred the chicken with two forks directly in the crock pot and stir well into the sauce.
- Add parmesan. Mix in shredded parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Cook pasta. Boil pasta according to package directions, then drain.
- Combine and serve. Stir the pasta into the creamy chicken mixture. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Make it thicker: Leave the lid off for the last 15 minutes to thicken the sauce.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth.
- Freeze ahead: Cook the chicken mixture without the pasta, freeze, then add freshly cooked pasta when serving.
Recipe Variations
- Protein Swap: Use turkey breasts, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even cubed beef sausage for a different twist.
- Lightened Up: Substitute light cream cheese and whole wheat pasta for a healthier version.
- Extra Veggies: Stir in spinach, broccoli florets, or roasted bell peppers for added color and nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy pasta is rich and filling, but it pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic bread or crusty dinner rolls
- A fresh green salad with vinaigrette
- Steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus
- A sparkling grape juice or iced herbal tea for a refreshing drink
Conclusion
This Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal—it’s a cozy, family-style dinner that makes busy evenings so much easier. With creamy sauce, tender chicken, and pasta that soaks up every bit of flavor, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll crave over and over again. Gather your loved ones, serve it up warm, and enjoy the comforting flavors that make this dish a true favorite.