Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delicious, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with family and friends. This easy recipe combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta in a slow cooker, making it a hassle-free meal option. Whether you’re preparing for a cozy dinner or a potluck, this dish stands out for its rich flavors and minimal prep time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply toss ingredients into the crockpot and let it do the work.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic parmesan sauce and cream cheese creates a delightful taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course for dinner or as part of a larger spread at parties.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike enjoy this creamy pasta dish, making it ideal for family meals.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or switch up the pasta type to suit your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, ensure you have the right tools on hand. These essential items will help you create the perfect Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring tender chicken without constant monitoring.
• Chef’s knife: Essential for quickly chopping chicken and other ingredients with precision.
• Mixing spoon: Helps in mixing sauces and pasta thoroughly to achieve even flavor throughout the dish.

Ingredients

For the Sauce and Chicken

• 1 (12 oz) bottle Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce
• 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (trimmed)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper
• 1 cup milk
• 8 oz cream cheese (cut into cubes)
• ¼ cup grated or shredded parmesan cheese

For the Pasta

• 12 to 16 oz pasta, such as rotini or penne (cooked to package directions)

How to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season chicken with kosher salt and fresh pepper.
2. Place seasoned chicken in the bottom of a crockpot or slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Sauce Ingredients

1. Pour the entire bottle of parmesan garlic sauce over the chicken.
2. Add milk to the empty sauce bottle, shake well, then pour it over the chicken.

Step 3: Mix in Cheese

1. Add cream cheese cubes and parmesan cheese to the crockpot.
2. Stir gently to combine all ingredients while ensuring that chicken is covered with sauce.

Step 4: Cook It Low and Slow

1. Cover your slow cooker with its lid.
2. Cook on high for 2 to 3 hours or low for 3 to 4 hours until chicken is fully cooked.

Step 5: Shred Chicken and Combine with Pasta

1. Once cooked, remove chicken from the crockpot onto a plate or cutting board.
2. Shred using two forks or dice into bite-sized pieces before returning it back to the slow cooker.

Step 6: Prepare Pasta

1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
2. Drain well, then add cooked pasta into the crockpot.
3. Stir everything together until well mixed.

Enjoy your hearty Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta! This dish not only provides comfort but also makes dinner time easier than ever!

How to Serve Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Family Style

• Serve directly from the crockpot for a cozy, family-style meal. Let everyone help themselves to the creamy pasta and chicken.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil for added color and freshness. This will elevate the flavor and presentation of the dish.

Over a Bed of Greens

• Spoon the pasta over a bed of fresh spinach or arugula. The greens will add a nice crunch and balance out the richness of the sauce.

With Crusty Bread

• Accompany your meal with slices of crusty bread. This is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.

In a Wrap

• Use leftovers to create a tasty wrap. Just add some shredded lettuce and tomatoes in a tortilla for a quick lunch option.

With Extra Cheese

• Top with additional grated parmesan cheese before serving. This extra touch makes it even more indulgent and cheesy!

How to Perfect Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

To ensure that your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality chicken and sauce make all the difference in flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving; you may want to add more salt or pepper according to your preference.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook pasta just until firm; it will absorb some sauce after mixing.
• Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking; this helps flavors meld together.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to include vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta can elevate your meal further. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice, perfect for sopping up delicious sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing complement the pasta well.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition without overwhelming flavors.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil enhances the meal’s overall appeal.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta dish.
6. Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a fresh side that balances richness beautifully.
7. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf offers a subtle flavor that pairs nicely with the chicken pasta.
8. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cheeses, and cured meats adds variety to your dinner spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning – Not seasoning the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always season before cooking for enhanced taste.
• Using low-quality sauce – A poor-quality parmesan garlic sauce can ruin your dish. Invest in a good brand for the best results.
• Overcooking the chicken – Cooking on high too long can dry out the chicken. Stick to recommended times for juicy meat.
• Not stirring enough – Failing to stir the ingredients can result in uneven cooking. Make sure to combine everything well before serving.
• Ignoring pasta cooking instructions – Overcooked pasta can become mushy. Follow package directions closely for perfect texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Label the container with the date for tracking freshness.

Reheating Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish and cover with foil; heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave – Use a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between, until hot.
• Stovetop – Heat on low in a skillet, adding a splash of milk if it appears dry. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta that might help you:

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just add an additional hour of cooking time.

What type of pasta works best?

Rotini or penne pasta are great options as they hold onto the sauce well.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and check that your sauce is also gluten-free.

What should I serve with this dish?

A simple side salad or garlic bread complements this dish nicely.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly delicious and satisfying. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices. Give it a try, and enjoy a hassle-free dinner that everyone will love!