This crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta is an easy weeknight dinner recipe that your family will love! Perfect for busy evenings, this dish combines tender chicken with a creamy garlic parmesan sauce and pasta, making it a hit at the dinner table. Its simplicity and rich flavors make it suitable for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just a few minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it while the crockpot does all the work.
- Mouthwatering Flavors: The combination of garlic, parmesan, and creamy Alfredo sauce creates a deliciously rich flavor profile.
- Versatile Dish: You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or switching up the type of pasta to suit your tastes.
- Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike, making dinner time enjoyable for everyone.
- Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pot means less mess in the kitchen!
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Pot for boiling pasta
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: This appliance allows for hands-off cooking and ensures that the chicken stays juicy and tender.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients quick and safe, saving you time during prep.
- Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements help ensure consistent flavor every time you make this dish.
Ingredients
This crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta is an easy weeknight dinner recipe that your family will love!
Chicken & Seasonings
- 1 lb chicken breast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 TBSP minced garlic
Sauces & Cheese
- BWW Garlic Parmesan sauce
- 1 jar of Alfredo sauce
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
Pasta
- 1 16 oz box of pasta
How to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Add the chicken breast to your slow cooker. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients
Next, add minced garlic and enough BWW Garlic Parmesan sauce to cover the chicken completely.
Step 3: Cook Low and Slow
Set your slow cooker to low heat. Allow the mixture to cook for 4-6 hours until the chicken is tender.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, shred or chop up the chicken into bite-sized pieces directly in the slow cooker.
Step 5: Boil Your Pasta
While the chicken cooks, boil your favorite pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Step 6: Combine with Sauces
Add Alfredo sauce, Parmesan cheese, and shredded mozzarella to the shredded chicken in the slow cooker. Stir everything together until well mixed.
Step 7: Mix in Pasta
Finally, add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker. Gently mix all ingredients until evenly combined.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Scoop portions onto plates or bowls, serve hot, and enjoy this delightful crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta with family or friends!
How to Serve Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a delicious and creamy dish that’s perfect for family dinners. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a tangy Caesar dressing complement the rich flavors of the pasta.
- Garden Salad – A mix of fresh greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing adds freshness to your plate.
Add Some Bread
- Garlic Bread – Toasted baguette slices brushed with garlic butter perfectly soak up the creamy sauce.
- Dinner Rolls – Soft rolls are great for mopping up leftover sauce on your plate.
Top with Extra Cheese
- Parmesan Cheese – A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan enhances the flavor and adds a nice finishing touch.
- Mozzarella – Melt some extra mozzarella on top for a gooey, cheesy bite.
Include Vegetables
- Steamed Broccoli – Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition while balancing the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Asparagus – Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil and roasted until golden makes an elegant side option.
How to Perfect Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
To achieve the best results with your crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh herbs and spices will elevate the flavors significantly compared to dried alternatives.
- Adjust Cooking Time – Keep an eye on the chicken; it should be tender but not overcooked. Adjust cooking time based on your crockpot model.
- Mix Well Before Serving – Stir the pasta well before serving to ensure every bite is coated in that delicious garlic parmesan sauce.
- Experiment with Pasta Types – Feel free to use different shapes or types of pasta like penne or rotini for texture variety.
Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Serving side dishes alongside your crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta can add variety and balance to your meal. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting pairing.
- Sautéed Green Beans – Crisp-tender green beans sautéed in olive oil add crunch and color.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw brings a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta dish.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a light and flavorful side.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn complements the savory flavors of chicken pasta beautifully.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These caramelized sprouts add depth through their earthy flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to make some common missteps. Here are a few mistakes to watch for.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Stick to the recommended 4-6 hours on low heat for juicy results.
- Ignoring seasoning: Not using enough seasoning can lead to bland flavor. Be sure to include salt, pepper, and your choice of spices for a tasty dish.
- Skipping the pasta: Forgetting to cook the pasta separately can result in a sticky mess. Always boil your pasta according to package instructions before mixing.
- Not shredding the chicken properly: If you don’t shred or chop the chicken well, it won’t mix evenly with the sauce and pasta. Use two forks for easier shredding.
- Using low-quality sauces: Poor-quality sauces can affect the dish’s overall taste. Opt for good brands like BWW Garlic Parmesan and Alfredo sauce for best flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Best used within 2 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta.
How long does it take to cook Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
It takes about 4-6 hours on low heat in the crockpot. This slow cooking allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Can I use frozen chicken breast?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just add an hour of cooking time as they will take longer to reach safe temperatures.
What other pasta can I use besides traditional options?
You can use any pasta shape you like! Penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free varieties work well in this recipe.
How do I customize my Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition and color. You can also adjust seasoning based on personal preference.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and customizable with your favorite ingredients. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a cozy meal that your whole family will love!
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful, creamy dish that brings comfort to your dinner table with minimal effort. This easy weeknight recipe features tender chicken simmered in a rich garlic parmesan sauce, perfectly paired with your favorite pasta. Ideal for busy evenings, family gatherings, or cozy nights in, this dish is sure to impress both kids and adults alike. With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker doing the heavy lifting, you can set it and forget it while savoring mouthwatering flavors that everyone will love. Serve it hot with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4–6 hours
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast
- 1/4 cup BWW Garlic Parmesan sauce
- 1 jar Alfredo sauce
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 16 oz pasta (your choice)
Instructions
- Place chicken breast in the slow cooker and season with salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic.
- Pour enough BWW Garlic Parmesan sauce over the chicken to cover it completely.
- Cook on low heat for 4-6 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker once cooked.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Mix Alfredo sauce, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella into the shredded chicken in the slow cooker.
- Combine with cooked pasta and mix well before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
