Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food for busy families who crave a creamy, flavorful dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. This easy crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe combines tender shredded chicken, rich parmesan cheese, and a smooth garlic cream sauce tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s warm, satisfying, and made with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.
Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or prepping a cozy weekend meal, this slow cooker dish delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Let your crockpot do the work while you enjoy a stress-free evening.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This easy crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta is more than just creamy and delicious — it’s practical and family-friendly.
- Made in the slow cooker for hands-off cooking
- Creamy, rich, and full of garlic parmesan flavor
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
- Customizable with vegetables or lighter swaps
- Kid-approved and crowd-pleasing
The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become incredibly tender while soaking up the savory garlic and parmesan sauce. Every bite is smooth, cheesy, and comforting.
Ingredients for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)
Ingredient Notes and Healthy Swaps
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best, but chicken thighs can be used for extra tenderness.
- Cream Cheese Substitute: Use full-fat Greek yogurt for a lighter option while keeping the creamy texture.
- Heavy Cream Alternative: Swap with evaporated milk or half-and-half to reduce richness.
- Parmesan: Freshly grated parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in spinach, steamed broccoli, or sautéed mushrooms for added nutrition.
- Pasta Choice: Whole wheat pasta adds fiber and makes this crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta more filling.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Crockpot
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add minced garlic and pour chicken broth over the top.
Step 2 – Add Cream Cheese
Place the softened cream cheese on top of the chicken. Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Step 3 – Shred the Chicken
Once fully cooked, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks. Stir everything together so the cream cheese blends into the broth.
Step 4 – Add Cream and Parmesan
Pour in the heavy cream and stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese. Let the mixture cook for an additional 20–30 minutes on low until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
Step 5 – Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
Step 6 – Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the crockpot and stir until fully coated in the creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep it slightly firm before mixing to prevent mushy texture.
- Use Fresh Garlic: It gives a stronger, more vibrant flavor than garlic powder.
- Shred While Warm: Chicken shreds more easily when hot.
- Adjust Thickness: Add extra broth if the sauce is too thick, or let it cook uncovered to thicken.
- Grate Parmesan Fresh: It melts better and prevents clumping.
Flavor Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes for heat.
- Lemon Twist: Stir in a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten flavors.
- Vegetable Boost: Mix in spinach or roasted broccoli.
- Protein Swap: Use shredded rotisserie chicken for faster prep.
- Cheese Blend: Add mozzarella for extra stretch and creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this easy crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta with:
- A crisp green salad
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- Steamed green beans
- Roasted asparagus
It’s a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with fresh vegetables balances the richness of the creamy sauce.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
To freeze, store without the pasta for best results. Freeze the chicken and sauce mixture for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and combining with freshly cooked pasta.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 |
| Protein | 38g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fat | 24g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 620mg |
FAQ About Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Can I cook the pasta directly in the crockpot?
It’s best to cook pasta separately. Adding dry pasta to the crockpot can make the sauce too thick and the texture uneven.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but ensure it cooks thoroughly to a safe internal temperature of 165°F. Cooking time may increase slightly.
How do I thicken the sauce?
If the sauce is too thin, let it cook uncovered for 20–30 minutes. You can also stir in extra parmesan cheese.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based cream, and dairy-free parmesan alternatives. The flavor will be slightly different but still creamy and satisfying.
What pasta works best?
Penne, rotini, or rigatoni are ideal because they hold the creamy sauce well.
Final Thoughts
This easy crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta is the perfect solution for busy days when you want something warm, creamy, and comforting. With simple ingredients and effortless preparation, it’s a dependable recipe you’ll want to make again and again. The rich garlic parmesan flavor combined with tender shredded chicken makes every bite delicious and satisfying.
If you’re looking for a slow cooker dinner that’s both practical and flavorful, this crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta truly delivers.
Print
Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 4-6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting slow cooker dinner made with tender shredded chicken, garlic, parmesan cheese, and pasta.
Ingredients
2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
12 ounces penne pasta
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. Place chicken in crockpot and season.
2. Add garlic, broth, and cream cheese.
3. Cook on low 4-6 hours.
4. Shred chicken and stir mixture.
5. Add heavy cream and parmesan.
6. Cook pasta separately.
7. Combine pasta with sauce and serve.
Notes
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for lighter version.
Add spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.
Store leftovers up to 4 days in refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
