Description of this recipe: This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food – creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, all while being incredibly easy to make. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe requires minimal effort and yields a satisfying and delicious meal the whole family will love.
Why you will love this recipe: Imagine coming home after a long day to the aroma of garlic and parmesan wafting through the air. This recipe is a set-it-and-forget-it marvel. The crockpot does all the work, transforming simple ingredients into a rich and flavorful pasta dish. The chicken becomes incredibly tender, practically melting into the creamy parmesan sauce. Plus, the customization options are endless – add your favorite vegetables, spices, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. It’s a versatile and foolproof recipe that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Introduction
In the realm of effortless weeknight dinners, the Crockpot stands as a culinary champion. It’s a vessel that transforms humble ingredients into flavorful, satisfying meals with minimal effort. And when you combine the ease of a slow cooker with the comforting flavors of garlic parmesan chicken pasta, you have a recipe that’s destined to become a staple in your household. This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe is a testament to the magic that happens when simplicity meets deliciousness. Forget spending hours in the kitchen – this recipe requires just a few minutes of prep work, and then the crockpot takes over, leaving you free to tackle other tasks while a delectable dinner simmers away. The result? Tender, juicy chicken bathed in a creamy, cheesy garlic parmesan sauce, all nestled among perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. This recipe is not only incredibly easy but also incredibly versatile. Feel free to adapt it to your liking by adding your favorite vegetables, spices, or cheeses. Want a touch of heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Craving some greens? Throw in some spinach or broccoli florets. The possibilities are endless! So, dust off your crockpot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the pure joy of a delicious, stress-free dinner.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
- 1 bottle (12 ounces) parmesan garlic sauce (Alfredo sauce works in a pinch if you can’t find parmesan garlic sauce)
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup milk (2% or whole milk is best)
- 1 box (16 oz) rotini pasta (or your preferred pasta shape)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot. Spray the insert of the crockpot with nonstick cooking spray. This will prevent the chicken and sauce from sticking to the bottom and make cleanup a breeze. Nobody wants to spend extra time scrubbing a sticky crockpot!
Step 2: Add the Ingredients. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the prepared crockpot. Pour the entire bottle of parmesan garlic sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese evenly over the sauce and then dot the cream cheese around on top of the sauce. The cream cheese will melt and create a luscious, creamy texture in the final dish.
Step 3: Add the Milk. Fill the empty parmesan garlic sauce bottle with the milk. Secure the lid and shake vigorously to loosen any remaining sauce clinging to the sides and bottom of the bottle. Pour the milk over the chicken and other ingredients in the crockpot. This ensures you get every last bit of flavor from the sauce and also adds a bit of extra liquid to prevent the chicken from drying out.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken. Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on LOW heat for 6-8 hours or on HIGH heat for 3-4 hours. The cooking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of your chicken breasts and the specific model of your crockpot. The chicken is done when it is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
Step 5: Shred and Mix. Once the chicken is cooked, remove the lid and shred it using two forks. Alternatively, you can use an electric hand mixer to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. This is a quick and easy method that produces perfectly shredded chicken. Stir the shredded chicken and sauce together until well combined. Ensure that all of the parmesan cheese and cream cheese are fully incorporated, creating a smooth and creamy sauce.
Step 6: Cook the Pasta. While the chicken is cooking in the crockpot, prepare the rotini pasta according to the package directions. Cook the pasta to your preferred level of doneness – al dente for a slightly firm texture, or softer if you prefer. Be sure to salt the pasta water generously to season the pasta from the inside out.
Step 7: Combine and Serve. Drain the cooked pasta in a colander but do not rinse it. Stir the drained pasta into the parmesan chicken mixture inside the crockpot until well combined. The pasta will absorb the flavorful sauce, creating a cohesive and satisfying dish. If the sauce seems too thick, reserve some of the pasta water before draining and add it to the crockpot a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached. You can also use milk or chicken broth as an alternative to pasta water. Remember, you may not need to use all of the cooked pasta, depending on your preference and the size of your crockpot. Serve the Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta warm and enjoy!
COOKING Rating:
- Ease of Preparation: 5/5 (Extremely easy)
- Flavor: 5/5 (Rich, creamy, and garlicky)
- Kid-Friendliness: 5/5 (A guaranteed crowd-pleaser)
- Overall: 5/5 (A must-try recipe for busy weeknights)
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of garlic bread for dipping in the creamy sauce.
- Add a fresh salad for a complete and balanced meal. A simple Caesar salad or a mixed green salad with vinaigrette would be a great complement.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
- Sprinkle with extra parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy kick.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, try browning the chicken breasts in a skillet before adding them to the crockpot.
- Add some chopped vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms, for a more nutritious meal.
- If you don’t have parmesan garlic sauce, you can use Alfredo sauce and add extra garlic powder and parmesan cheese to taste.
- To prevent the pasta from becoming too mushy, add it to the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking time, or cook it separately and stir it in right before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
6-8 hours on LOW, or 3-4 hours on HIGH
Total Time:
6 hours 15 minutes – 8 hours 15 minutes on LOW, or 3 hours 15 minutes – 4 hours 15 minutes on HIGH
Nutritional Information: (Approximate per serving, may vary based on specific ingredients used)
- Calories: 600-700
- Protein: 40-50g
- Sodium: 800-1000mg
Conclusion
This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a winner for several reasons. It’s incredibly convenient, allowing you to prepare a delicious and satisfying meal with minimal effort. The slow cooking process infuses the chicken with incredible flavor and tenderness, while the creamy parmesan sauce adds a touch of indulgence. It is a meal that appeals to adults and children alike, making it a great option for family dinners. It’s also versatile, so you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to impress. So, embrace the convenience and deliciousness of this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta and make it a regular part of your meal rotation. You won’t be disappointed!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?
A: While it’s generally recommended to use thawed chicken breasts for optimal texture and even cooking, you can use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe. However, you’ll need to increase the cooking time by about 1-2 hours on LOW or 30 minutes to 1 hour on HIGH. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be considered safe to eat. Keep in mind that using frozen chicken may result in a slightly different texture, as it can release more moisture during the cooking process.
Q2: Can I substitute the parmesan garlic sauce with something else?
A: Yes, if you can’t find parmesan garlic sauce, Alfredo sauce is a great substitute. To mimic the parmesan garlic flavor, add 1-2 teaspoons of garlic powder and an extra 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese to the Alfredo sauce. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
Q3: How can I make this recipe healthier?
A: There are several ways to lighten up this recipe. First, use light or reduced-fat cream cheese. Second, use whole wheat pasta instead of regular rotini. You can also add lots of vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms, to increase the nutritional value and add fiber. Finally, you can reduce the amount of parmesan cheese used and add a bit of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the extra calories.
Q4: My sauce is too thick! What should I do?
A: If your sauce is too thick, there are a few simple solutions. As suggested in the recipe, reserve some of the pasta water before draining and add it to the crockpot a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached. You can also use milk, chicken broth, or even a splash of white wine to thin out the sauce. Be sure to stir well after adding any liquid to ensure it’s evenly incorporated.
Q5: Can I add vegetables to this recipe? If so, when should I add them?
A: Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a fantastic way to boost the nutritional value and flavor of this dish. Heartier vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers can be added at the beginning of the cooking process along with the chicken. More delicate vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini should be added during the last 30-60 minutes of cooking to prevent them from becoming overcooked and mushy.
