Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: A Creamy and Delicious Slow Cooker Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious dinner that’s easy to prepare, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the perfect choice. Made with tender chicken, a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, and your favorite pasta, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Best of all, it’s made in a slow cooker, making it a convenient option for busy days. Here’s how you can make this mouth-watering recipe at home.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 bottle Parmesan Garlic Sauce (12 oz): This is the base of your creamy sauce. Choose a high-quality sauce for the best flavor.
• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These will become incredibly tender as they cook and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
• 1 cup milk: This helps to thin the sauce and make it extra creamy.
• 8 oz cream cheese, cut into blocks: Cream cheese adds a rich, velvety texture to the sauce.
• 4 oz shredded or grated Parmesan cheese: This adds a nutty, salty flavor that complements the garlic sauce perfectly.
• 12 oz pasta: Use your favorite type of pasta. Penne, rotini, or fettuccine all work well in this dish.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour the entire bottle of Parmesan Garlic Sauce over the chicken.

2. Add Milk and Remaining Sauce

Fill the empty Parmesan Garlic Sauce bottle with milk, shake well to get all the remaining sauce, and pour it into the slow cooker.

3. Add Cream Cheese and Parmesan

Cut the cream cheese into blocks and add it to the slow cooker along with the Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together to combine and ensure the chicken is well-coated.

4. Cook

Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 3-4 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and easy to shred.

5. Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix it into the sauce.

6. Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and add it to the slow cooker. Stir everything together to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.

Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Choose Quality Ingredients: Since this recipe has few ingredients, each one plays a crucial role. Opt for a high-quality Parmesan Garlic Sauce and fresh Parmesan cheese.

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook a bit once it’s added to the slow cooker.

Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the amount of milk. For a thinner sauce, add a bit more milk or even some chicken broth.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a hearty dish on its own, but you can serve it with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley on top for a beautiful presentation.

Final Thoughts

This slow cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful, creamy dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to satisfy everyone at the dinner table. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

 

Additional Tips and Variations

Experiment with Different Cheeses

While Parmesan cheese is the star of this dish, you can experiment with other cheeses to add a unique twist. Try incorporating:

• Asiago: For a slightly nuttier flavor.
• Mozzarella: For a creamier, more stretchy texture.
• Romano: For a sharper, saltier taste.

Add Vegetables for Extra Flavor and Nutrition

Boost the nutritional value and flavor of your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta by adding vegetables. Some great options include:

• Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach leaves during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add these for a burst of tangy flavor.
• Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add a rich, earthy flavor.
• Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli florets provide a nice crunch and color.

Make it Spicy

If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding some spice to your dish. A few options include:

• Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle over the top for a subtle kick.
• Chili Powder: Mix into the sauce for a deeper heat.
• Sriracha: Drizzle over the finished dish for a spicy finish.

Serve with a Variety of Sides

Enhance your meal with complementary side dishes:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp salad with a tangy dressing balances the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil, salt, and pepper make a healthy, delicious side.

Storage and Reheating

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. The flavors often meld together even more after a day, making leftovers especially tasty.

Reheating

Reheat your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta gently to avoid overcooking the chicken or drying out the sauce. Here are a few methods:

• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and cover it. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce.
• Oven: Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but the cooking time will need to be adjusted. Cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Q: Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

A: Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by using plant-based cream cheese and milk alternatives like almond or coconut milk. Look for a vegan Parmesan substitute to maintain the cheesy flavor.

Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and chicken, cook the pasta fresh, and combine everything in the slow cooker.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a versatile and delicious dish that brings together the comforting flavors of garlic and Parmesan with tender, juicy chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. By utilizing your slow cooker, you can enjoy a rich, creamy meal with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for busy days or casual family dinners. With the addition of your favorite vegetables or spices, this recipe can easily be customized to suit your personal taste.

Give this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta a try, and it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and the convenience of a slow-cooked meal that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.