The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Let’s dive into the creamy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible world of The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe. Imagine tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta swimming in a rich garlic parmesan sauce, all slow-cooked to perfection in your trusty crockpot. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary hug on a chilly evening.

This recipe is my go-to when I need comfort food that’s also remarkably easy. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel warm inside and elicits happy sighs with every bite. The delicious aroma alone will have your family clamoring for seconds, maybe even thirds!

Here are four reasons you’ll love this recipe:

It’s incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.

The flavor is rich, savory, and intensely satisfying.

It looks beautiful, making it ideal for special occasions or impressing guests.

It’s incredibly versatile; easily adjust seasonings to your own taste.

Ingredients for The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Chicken Breast Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy cooking and tender results. Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Pasta Any short pasta shape like penne, rotini, or farfalle works well. Choose your favorite!

Garlic Fresh garlic is best for its vibrant flavor. Use about 4-6 cloves, depending on your garlic-loving prowess.

Parmesan Cheese Grate your own parmesan for the best flavor and texture. Don’t skimp on the cheese!

Chicken Broth Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish. Vegetable broth can be substituted for a vegetarian option.

Olive Oil A good quality olive oil enhances the flavor of the dish. Use extra virgin olive oil for the richest taste.

Onion A medium yellow onion adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.

Italian Seasoning This blend of herbs provides a classic Italian flavor profile. Adjust the amount according to your preference.

Salt and Pepper Use to season the chicken and the sauce to your liking.

Agar-Agar Powder A plant-based alternative to agar-agar for thickening the sauce. Follow package instructions for accurate measurements.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prep the Chicken and Vegetables

Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Chop the onion finely. Mince the garlic. Set aside.

Step 2: Layer the Crockpot

In your slow cooker, first add the olive oil. Then, add the onions and garlic. Cook on low for about 15 minutes, until softened.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Seasonings

Add the chicken pieces to the crockpot. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat everything evenly.

Step 4: Incorporate Broth and Pasta

Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and vegetables. Add the pasta. Stir gently to combine.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Stir in Parmesan and Agar-Agar

In the last 15 minutes of cooking, stir in the grated parmesan cheese and agar-agar powder according to package directions. This will thicken the sauce beautifully.

Stir gently until the cheese is melted and the sauce is thickened to your desired consistency.

Serve immediately. Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish. This recipe is a real crowd-pleaser, and you’ll be making it again and again! Remember to adjust cooking times depending on your crockpot and the type of pasta you are using. Bon appétit!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken breasts until lightly browned. Then, cook your pasta according to package directions. While the pasta cooks, simmer the sauce. Finally, combine everything in your slow cooker for a delightful, effortless meal.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for beef or turkey. Experiment with different cheeses, like asiago or provolone. Add sauteed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Use a good quality chicken broth for extra flavor depth. Don’t overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender. Let the sauce simmer gently for a richer, more developed flavor.

I once served this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta at a potluck, and it disappeared faster than you could say “biscotti!” My friends raved about the creamy sauce and tender chicken.

(Personal anecdote formated as paragraph subheading)

Making this recipe for my family’s game night was a total hit. The kids loved it, and even my picky husband asked for seconds! It was easy, flavorful, and a real crowd-pleaser.

The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

: A Step-by-Step Guide

This recipe is a testament to the fact that simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create a culinary masterpiece. It’s the kind of dish that evokes feelings of warmth and comfort, reminding us that sometimes, the best things in life are the simplest. And this recipe, my friends, is undeniably simple. But oh-so-delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the deliciousness, let’s gather our ingredients. This recipe is designed to serve four hungry adults, or six if you’re serving it alongside a salad or other sides. Feel free to adjust the quantities to fit your needs.

1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes

1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)

1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)

1/2 cup heavy cream (or substitute with full-fat coconut milk for a vegan option)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving

4 cloves garlic, minced (or more, if you’re a garlic fiend like me!)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon dried basil

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

: A Symphony of Flavors

Now, let’s get cooking! This recipe is designed to be effortless, perfect for a busy weeknight. Don’t worry, even if your culinary skills are more “enthusiastic amateur” than “professional chef”, this one’s a winner.

First, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cubes and sear until they are lightly browned on all sides. This step adds a lovely depth of flavor and helps to ensure the chicken remains juicy.

Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Don’t burn the garlic! We want it to infuse its delicious aroma into the dish, not turn bitter.

Transfer the seared chicken and garlic to your slow cooker. Add the chicken broth, heavy cream (or coconut milk), Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.

Now, cook the pasta according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and add it to the slow cooker. Gently stir to combine the pasta and sauce. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the pasta is heated through.

Serving Suggestions

: The Grand Finale

Once the cooking time is up, you’re ready to serve! Ladle the pasta into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley (if using) and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and watch your family and friends devour this delicious, comforting meal.

The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

: Frequently Asked Questions

This section is all about addressing those nagging questions that pop up while you’re cooking. I’ve included some of the most common queries I receive about this recipe.

Q: Can I use different types of pasta?

A: Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with various pasta shapes, such as penne, rotini, fusilli, or even farfalle.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker in the morning and cook it on low while you’re at work or running errands.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

A: Of course! Sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers make a fantastic addition.

Q: What can I substitute for heavy cream?

A: Full-fat coconut milk provides a creamy texture without the dairy. You can also try cashew cream for a richer, slightly sweeter flavor.

Q: Can I freeze this recipe?

A: Freezing this recipe isn’t ideal, as the pasta will likely become mushy when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh!

Conclusion for The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is a winner for its ease of preparation, delicious flavors, and versatility. The slow cooker does most of the work, freeing up your time for other activities. The creamy parmesan sauce, combined with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, makes for a comforting and satisfying meal. Experiment with different vegetables and chicken types to customize it further, but regardless, get ready for a flavor explosion that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s quick and easy to make.

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FAQs

Can I make this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is fantastic for meal prepping. You can assemble everything in the slow cooker the night before and let it simmer away while you sleep. Just make sure to refrigerate it properly overnight and then reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the crockpot itself on low before serving. Don’t worry about the pasta getting mushy; the slow cooking process actually helps it absorb the delicious flavors beautifully. Remember to adjust cooking time if reheating from cold.

What kind of chicken works best in this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe?

While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easiest, you can certainly experiment! Chicken thighs will be slightly more tender and flavorful, but will take a bit longer to cook. Just be sure to cut them into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking. If using frozen chicken, add it to the crockpot before adding the other ingredients and increase the cooking time accordingly. Don’t be afraid to get creative – this recipe is very forgiving!

Is this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply ensure you use gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer excellent gluten-free alternatives that cook just like regular pasta. Double-check your pasta packaging to confirm it’s gluten-free. The other ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, so making this delicious and simple dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions is a breeze!

Can I add vegetables to this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe?

Yes! This recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables. Think diced bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms. Add them along with the chicken for even cooking, or add them during the last 30 minutes for a slightly crisper texture. Remember to adjust cooking times depending on the type and size of vegetables you add. Experiment and find your perfect veggie combination for a truly satisfying and customizable Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe.