Description
This easy and creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is made in a crock pot, blending savory garlic, tender chicken, and cheesy goodness into one comforting dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, romantic dinners, or meal prep, this slow-cooked pasta is incredibly flavorful and simple to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 tbsp butter
For the Pasta:
- 12–16 oz fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni pasta
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (if needed for sauce consistency)
For Garnish:
- Extra grated Parmesan
- Fresh chopped parsley or basil
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Layer in the Crock Pot: Place the seasoned chicken in the crock pot. Add garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and butter.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, then return it to the crock pot.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta separately until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the crock pot, tossing gently to coat it in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley or basil before serving. Enjoy warm!
Notes
- For a richer taste, mix in Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese with the Parmesan.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker versionβjust add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Swap heavy cream for coconut milk and use dairy-free Parmesan for a lactose-free option.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan chicken pasta, slow cooker pasta, creamy chicken pasta, crock pot recipes, easy pasta dishes