Description
This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting meal that’s incredibly easy to prepare. Tender chicken breasts cook slowly with pasta, a blend of creamy cheeses, garlic, and fragrant herbs, resulting in a rich and delicious dish perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for searing)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pasta and Broth
- 8 oz penne pasta (or your preferred pasta)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Sauces and Cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Seasonings
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tablespoon garlic paste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Optional Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes on each side to lock in flavor and improve texture. Then, place the seared chicken in the Crockpot.
- Add Pasta and Broth: Pour the uncooked penne pasta and chicken broth around the chicken in the Crockpot, ensuring even distribution.
- Mix Creamy Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, dried thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Pour this sauce evenly over the chicken and pasta in the Crockpot.
- Cook: Cover the Crockpot and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and the pasta is tender and creamy.
- Shred Chicken and Combine: Remove the chicken from the Crockpot, shred it thoroughly using two forks, then return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir everything together to combine. If needed, add more chicken broth or cream to reach desired consistency.
- Serve: Dish out the creamy chicken pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- You can swap penne pasta for other pasta types such as rotini or fusilli for different textures.
- The searing step is optional but enhances the flavor and texture of the chicken.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- Use low-fat dairy options to reduce calories if desired, though it will affect creaminess.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
