Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you crave a creamy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is your new best friend. It’s a delightful blend of tender slow-cooked chicken bathed in a rich parmesan garlic sauce, perfectly matched with rotini pasta to catch every bit of that luscious flavor. Simple to prepare yet deeply satisfying, this dish hits all the right notes whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it over and over again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe lies in its straightforward and approachable ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture, making this dish both hearty and creamy without the fuss.

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast: The lean protein base that becomes tender and flavorful after slow cooking.
• 1 12 oz bottle parmesan garlic wing sauce: This is where much of the garlic and parmesan magic begins, infusing the chicken with vibrant, zesty notes.
• 1 cup milk: Added to mellow and smooth out the sauce, enhancing that creamy consistency.
• 1 8 oz cream cheese: Cubed and melted to create a luscious, velvety texture that coats the pasta beautifully.
• 1 4 oz parmesan cheese: Stirred in for an extra punch of sharp, nutty flavor to amplify the parmesan presence.
• 1 16 oz box rotini noodles: The spiral pasta that traps all the sauce and chicken in its curves for the perfect bite every time.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken in the Slow Cooker

Start by placing the chicken breasts in the slow cooker’s base. This is the foundation of your dish, and slow cooking ensures the chicken comes out tender and juicy, soaking up all the flavors you’re about to add.

Step 2: Add the Parmesan Garlic Wing Sauce

Pour the entire bottle of parmesan garlic wing sauce directly over the chicken. This sauce is the star of the dish, giving it that bold garlic parmesan kick that you’re craving.

Step 3: Make Sure No Sauce is Left Behind

Take the milk and pour it into the empty wing sauce bottle. Shake it well to catch any remaining sauce lurking on the sides, then pour this mixture into the slow cooker. This little trick ensures none of that delicious flavor goes to waste!

Step 4: Add Cream Cheese for Creaminess

Cube the cream cheese and scatter it over the top of the chicken and sauce mixture. As it melts, it will create that irresistibly creamy texture that brings the whole pasta dish together.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cook everything on low for 4 to 6 hours. This slow and steady approach allows the chicken to absorb all the flavors and become falling-apart tender, while the sauce thickens and intensifies.

Step 6: Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is thoroughly cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. This step spreads the chicken evenly throughout the pasta and sauce, making every bite hearty and flavorful.

Step 7: Combine Chicken and Parmesan Cheese

Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and add the parmesan cheese. Stir well to let the cheese melt fully into the sauce, boosting the creaminess and depth of flavor.

Step 8: Cook and Drain the Pasta

While your chicken and sauce continue their flavor party in the slow cooker, cook your rotini noodles according to box directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly but reserve a little pasta water if you want to loosen the sauce later on.

Step 9: Mix Pasta into the Sauce

Add the cooked rotini to the slow cooker and stir everything together. The pasta will soak up the creamy sauce, absorbing all those garlic and parmesan flavors to deliver pure comfort in every twirl.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Top your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe with extra parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you have it. This step adds just the right pop of color and an extra burst of cheesy goodness to your final masterpiece.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley or basil leaves scattered on top not only add a vibrant splash of green but also elevate the dish with a subtle fresh aroma. A little extra grated parmesan cheese before plating will satisfy those who love a punchy cheesy kick with every forkful.

Side Dishes

This creamy pasta stands deliciously strong on its own, but if you want to add sides, think fresh and crisp. A simple garden salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli tossed with olive oil and garlic work beautifully too, complementing the pasta’s Italian-inspired flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe in individual ramekins or hollowed-out bell peppers. This not only makes for a visually exciting presentation but also makes your meal feel special for family dinners or casual dinner parties alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners after a busy day.

Freezing

While creamy pasta dishes can be slightly tricky to freeze due to the dairy content, this recipe freezes nicely if you separate the pasta from the sauce and chicken. Freeze each in airtight containers for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and combine before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving straight from the freezer to keep that creamy texture intact.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini is perfect for holding the sauce, penne, fusilli, or even farfalle would work wonderfully. Just choose a pasta shape that will capture the sauce and chicken pieces.

Is there a substitute for cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone or ricotta for a slightly different creamy texture. Keep in mind these have a milder flavor, so you might want to add a bit more parmesan cheese to maintain the boldness of the dish.

Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Cook the chicken in a skillet, then add the sauce, milk, and cream cheese. Simmer gently until the chicken is cooked through and sauce thickens, then stir in the cooked pasta and cheese. It will be quicker but still delicious!

How spicy is the parmesan garlic wing sauce?

Most parmesan garlic wing sauces are mild with a subtle heat balanced by creamy parmesan and garlic flavors. If you prefer less heat, look for milder sauces or use half the bottle and adjust to taste.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready, place it in the slow cooker and cook as directed. This saves time when you want a ready-to-eat meal after work.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and comfort with every bite. Its creamy texture, savory flavors, and effortless preparation make it a perfect go-to recipe for busy nights or anytime you want a satisfying homemade dish. Don’t hesitate to try it out – your taste buds will thank you!

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