Crockpot Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious dinner that’s easy to prepare, Crockpot Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta is the perfect choice. This creamy, flavorful dish combines tender chicken with a rich Parmesan garlic sauce, all served over your favorite pasta. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a crockpot, you can enjoy a gourmet meal with hardly any effort. This recipe serves four, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep for the week.

Ingredients to Prepare

To create this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken and Sauce:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley (optional)

This recipe yields 4 servings, making it perfect for a family meal or leftovers for the next day.

How to Make

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Place Chicken in Crockpot: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot.

Add the Sauce Ingredients:

1. Pour Cream Over Chicken: Pour the heavy cream over the chicken.
2. Add Seasonings: Add the grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
3. Stir Slightly: Stir the ingredients slightly to combine and coat the chicken.

Cook the Chicken:

1. Cover and Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Cook the Pasta:

1. Boil Pasta: About 30 minutes before the chicken is done, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain Pasta: Drain and set aside.

Shred the Chicken:

1. Remove and Shred: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks.
2. Return to Crockpot: Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to combine with the sauce.

Combine the Pasta and Chicken:

1. Add Pasta to Crockpot: Add the cooked pasta to the crockpot and stir to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy Parmesan garlic sauce.

Serve:

1. Serve Hot: Serve the Crockpot Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta hot.
2. Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your Creamy Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta Delight!

Helpful Tips:

• Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Creamy Sauce: For an extra creamy sauce, you can add a bit more heavy cream or a splash of milk when combining the pasta and chicken.
• Cheese Quality: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.

Cooking Tips:

• Prevent Sticking: To prevent the pasta from sticking together after cooking, toss it with a bit of olive oil if it will sit before being added to the crockpot.
• Low and Slow: Cooking the chicken on low heat ensures it stays tender and juicy. Avoid cooking on high, as it may cause the chicken to become tough.

Serving Suggestions:

This creamy chicken pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also makes an excellent accompaniment to soak up the delicious sauce.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 650mg

Storage and Leftovers:

• Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: To reheat, place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on medium power until warmed through, or heat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
• Freeze: You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the breasts. Chicken thighs may add a bit more richness to the dish due to their higher fat content.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, rotini, fettuccine, or even spaghetti. Adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

How can I make this dish lighter?

To make a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken broth or use a lower-fat cream alternative. Keep in mind that the sauce may be slightly less creamy.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can add vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers. Add them to the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking to ensure they remain tender-crisp.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. These cheeses have a similar flavor profile and work well in this recipe.

How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

To prevent the sauce from separating, avoid cooking the dish on high heat. Stirring occasionally can also help keep the sauce well combined.

Conclusion

Crockpot Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to please. With tender chicken, a rich Parmesan garlic sauce, and your favorite pasta, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. Follow the tips and suggestions above to ensure perfect results every time. Whether you’re serving it with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or enjoying it on its own, this dish is bound to become a family favorite.

Enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness of Crockpot Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta and share this delightful meal with your loved ones. Happy cooking!

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