Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that practically makes itself, you’ve come to the right place! Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is one of those delightful recipes that warms your heart and fills your belly with joy. It’s creamy, garlicky, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you’re juggling a busy weeknight or hosting a cozy family gathering, this dish is sure to impress without too much fuss in the kitchen.

What makes this recipe special is how easy it is to throw everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic. The result? Tender chicken enveloped in a luscious garlic parmesan sauce, served over pasta. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super simple preparation: Just toss everything into the crockpot and relax while dinner cooks itself.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love this creamy pasta dish, making it a hit at any table.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Rich, delicious flavor: The combination of garlic and parmesan creates an irresistible sauce that clings to each piece of pasta.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. These are pantry staples that come together beautifully for a hearty meal.

For the Sauce

• 1 (12 oz) bottle Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce
• 1 cup milk

For the Chicken

• 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (trimmed)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper

For Creaminess

• 8 oz cream cheese (cut into cubes)
• ¼ cup grated or shredded parmesan cheese

For the Pasta

• 12 to 16 oz pasta, such as rotini or penne (cooked to package directions)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey breast or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Change up the sauce: Try different flavors of garlic sauce or even a homemade version for a personal touch.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: Add some crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your dish.

How to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. This step is essential as it sets the flavor foundation for your dish. Place the seasoned chicken at the bottom of your crockpot; this allows all those tasty juices to soak into the meat as it cooks.

Step 2: Add the Sauce

Next, pour the entire bottle of Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce over the chicken. Don’t worry about being precise; just make sure each piece gets coated with that delicious garlicky goodness.

Step 3: Mix in Milk

To get every last bit of sauce from your bottle, add one cup of milk to it and shake well. Then pour this mixture over the chicken too. The milk helps create a creamy texture that’s undeniable!

Step 4: Combine Creaminess

Now it’s time to add those cubes of cream cheese and shredded parmesan cheese directly into your crockpot. Give everything a gentle stir to combine; this will ensure that every bite is as rich and flavorful as can be!

Step 5: Let It Cook

Cover your crockpot and cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking process allows all those flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken tender.

Step 6: Shred Your Chicken

Once cooked through, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot onto a cutting board. Use two forks to shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces before returning it back into that creamy sauce. This ensures every piece gets coated perfectly!

Step 7: Prepare Your Pasta

While your chicken finishes mingling in its sauce, cook your chosen pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well before adding it directly into the crockpot with all those delicious flavors.

And there you have it! A warm bowl of Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta ready to serve. Enjoy this comforting dish with family or friends—you’ll be so glad you did!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Making this delicious dish can be a breeze if you follow these handy tips!

• Choose the right chicken: Use fresh, high-quality boneless skinless chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture. Frozen chicken can work too, but it may require longer cooking times.
• Get creative with seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices such as Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or crushed red pepper flakes to enhance the flavor profile of your dish.
• Don’t rush the cooking: Cooking on low allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time. If you’re short on time, high heat works, but you might miss out on that deep, rich taste.
• Adjust creaminess to your taste: If you love a creamier sauce, consider adding an extra block of cream cheese or a splash more milk towards the end of cooking. This will give you that luxurious texture!
• Make it ahead of time: This dish is perfect for meal prep! Cook it in advance and store leftovers in airtight containers. It reheats wonderfully and makes for quick lunches!

How to Serve Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This comforting pasta dish can be presented beautifully for any dinner occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy weeknight meal, here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley not only adds color but also a fresh flavor that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
• Grated parmesan cheese: A little extra parmesan on top gives an added burst of cheesy goodness and sophistication.
• Toasted pine nuts: For a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, scatter some toasted pine nuts on top just before serving.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Nothing pairs better with pasta than warm, buttery garlic bread. It’s great for soaking up any extra sauce!
• Caesar Salad (without anchovies): A refreshing Caesar salad made with crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a creamy dressing is an excellent complement to the richness of the pasta.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a pop of color and nutrients. The slight bitterness balances out the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots brings both flavor and nutrition to your plate while enhancing presentation.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’ll be ready to impress family and friends with your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time, ensuring you have hearty meals ready to go when you need them.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
• Add a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe:

Can I use another sauce instead of Parmesan Garlic Sauce?

Absolutely! While the focus keyphrase is Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, feel free to experiment with other sauces like Alfredo or pesto for a different flavor profile.

How can I make this dish healthier?

For a lighter version of Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese and adding extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini.

What type of pasta works best?

Rotini and penne are great choices because they hold onto the sauce well. However, you can use any pasta shape you like!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort after a long day. Enjoy the creamy goodness, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations in the comments. Happy cooking!