Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a busy day. With tender chicken cooking slowly alongside garlic, creamy Parmesan cheese, and pasta all mingling together, it’s a meal that’s both simple and full of comforting flavors. The garlic shines through without being overpowering, and the cheese adds just the right amount of richness to bring everything together.
I love how easy this recipe is to throw together in the crockpot, especially when life gets hectic. I usually toss all the ingredients in before leaving the house, and when I come back, the whole house smells amazing and dinner is waiting. It’s such a satisfying feeling, knowing that I’ll have something cozy and tasty ready without much fuss.
My favorite way to serve this pasta is with a side of steamed veggies or a simple green salad, just to add a little fresh crunch alongside the creamy pasta. It’s a total crowd-pleaser, and I’ve found even picky eaters come back for seconds. Plus, leftovers heat up really well, so it’s great for lunch the next day too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: They cook evenly and shred nicely in the crockpot. If you want more flavor, you can use thighs—they stay juicier but cook a bit faster, so watch the time.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the best flavor. You can swap with garlic powder if needed—about a teaspoon for four cloves works fine.
Chicken broth: This adds moisture and flavor. If you’re low on broth, water with a pinch of bouillon or extra seasoning works too.
Heavy cream or half-and-half: Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and smooth, but half-and-half lightens it up if you prefer. For a dairy-free choice, try canned coconut milk (full fat).
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoothly and adds a lovely salty depth. Pre-grated cheese can work, but it might not blend as well.
Pasta: Penne is sturdy and holds sauce nicely. Other short pasta like rigatoni or rotini also work well. Avoid spaghetti or thin noodles—they can get mushy in the crockpot.
How Can You Prevent The Pasta From Getting Mushy in the Crockpot?
Pasta can easily overcook in the slow cooker, so timing and stirring matter:
- Add the pasta only after the chicken is cooked and shredded; this avoids soggy noodles.
- Stir well to cover pasta with sauce and liquid, making sure it’s mostly submerged.
- Cook on high for the last 30-45 minutes—check at 25 minutes by tasting a piece to avoid overcooking.
- Stir halfway through this final cooking stage to stop noodles from sticking together or to the pot.
- If you want firmer pasta, reduce the cooking time or add pasta towards the very end and let it soak off heat.
These tips will help your pasta stay tender but not mushy, keeping that creamy, comforting texture intact.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker (crockpot) – This hands-off cooking method makes the chicken tender and flavorful without extra effort.
- Sharp knife – For chopping garlic and shredding the cooked chicken easily.
- Cutting board – Keeps your prep workspace neat and safe.
- Stirring spoon or spatula – To mix ingredients and prevent sticking as the pasta cooks.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Helps you add ingredients precisely, especially for liquids and seasonings.
- Serving spoon or tongs – To dish out your creamy pasta easily.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap proteins: Use cooked shrimp or turkey slices for a different twist on protein flavor.
- Cheese options: Mix in mozzarella or provolone for a melty, gooey texture, or add a touch of cream cheese for extra richness.
- Veggie boost: Stir in sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers for color and nutrients.
- Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes, Cajun seasoning, or a dash of hot sauce to make it spicy.
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 12 oz uncooked penne pasta (or your preferred pasta)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (optional, for sautéing garlic)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 4 to 5 hours for slow cooking on low (or 2 to 3 hours on high). After the chicken cooks, you’ll add pasta and let it cook for another 30-45 minutes. In total, plan for about 5 hours, with most of that time being hands-off crockpot cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. Sprinkle the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper over the chicken. Pour the chicken broth around the chicken carefully so you don’t wash off the seasoning. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
2. Shred the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Set the shredded chicken aside for now.
3. Add Cream, Cheese, and Pasta:
Into the crockpot, add the heavy cream (or half-and-half), Parmesan cheese, and the shredded chicken. Stir to combine everything well. Then add uncooked penne pasta and stir again, making sure pasta is submerged in the liquid so it cooks evenly.
4. Cook the Pasta:
Cover the crockpot and cook on high for another 30 to 45 minutes. Stir once halfway through to prevent sticking. Check the pasta at around 30 minutes to make sure it’s cooked to your liking without getting mushy.
5. Finish and Serve:
When the pasta is tender and everything is creamy, give it one last gentle stir. Serve your delicious garlic Parmesan chicken pasta hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the chicken before adding it to the crockpot. Thaw it safely in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method. Adding frozen chicken can increase cooking time and may affect even cooking.
Can I Substitute the Cream with a Lighter Option?
Absolutely! Half-and-half works well as a lighter alternative to heavy cream. You can also try whole milk, but the sauce might be less rich and creamy. For a dairy-free option, full-fat coconut milk can be a tasty substitute.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce creamy and avoid drying out.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes, adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes works great. Stir them in during the last 15 minutes of cooking so they stay fresh and vibrant without getting too soft.
