Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Easy Crockpot Dinner Recipe

If you’re looking for the perfect comfort food to enjoy with minimal effort, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the answer to your weeknight dinner woes. Made in a slow cooker, this recipe combines tender chicken, creamy Parmesan garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta to create a dish that feels indulgent but is so simple to prepare.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting a small gathering, or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this recipe ticks all the boxes. It’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with the kind of rich flavors that make you feel like you’re dining in your favorite Italian restaurant—but it’s all happening in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Plus, it’s super versatile! You can customize it with gluten-free pasta, add vegetables for extra nutrition, or adjust the spice level to your liking. This family-friendly dish is also a crowd-pleaser, perfect for picky eaters. If you’ve been searching for a recipe that’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress, trust me—this crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is about to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

The crockpot does all the heavy lifting in this recipe. Just throw in your ingredients, set the timer, and let it work its magic. No standing over a hot stove or juggling multiple pots and pans.

2. Creamy, Cheesy Perfection

The garlic Parmesan sauce is the real star of this dish. With its rich, creamy texture and bold garlic flavor, it’s the ultimate comfort food. It’s like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket of cheesy goodness.

3. Versatile for All Lifestyles

Following a special diet? No problem! Swap regular pasta for gluten-free or zucchini noodles for a keto-friendly option. You can even make it dairy-free with plant-based cream cheese and Parmesan.

4. Perfect for Busy Lives

This recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a dinner party. It’s a one-pot wonder that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Want more inspiration? Try a romantic twist with our Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe for a creamy, flavor-packed alternative that’s just as delightful!

Ingredients Breakdown

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, including chicken, pasta, Parmesan, cream cheese, and fresh herbs arranged on a board.

A. Chicken Choices

Boneless Chicken Breasts: These are lean and cook beautifully in the crockpot. Perfect if you’re looking for a low-fat option.
Chicken Thighs: Prefer dark meat? Thighs add extra juiciness and a slightly richer flavor.
Shredded Rotisserie Chicken: In a hurry? Pre-cooked shredded chicken is a fantastic shortcut.

B. Pasta Options

Penne Pasta: Sturdy and holds the creamy sauce well.
Rotini Pasta: Twists that trap every bit of garlic Parmesan goodness.
Farfalle (Bowtie) Pasta: Adds a fun, elegant touch to your dish.
Gluten-Free Pasta: Options like lentil or chickpea pasta work great for those avoiding gluten.

C. The Creamy Garlic Sauce

This sauce is what makes the dish unforgettable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Parmesan Cheese: For that salty, nutty flavor.
Cream Cheese: Adds richness and creaminess.
Heavy Cream and Chicken Broth: Creates a luscious base.
Minced Garlic: The heart of the flavor profile.

D. Flavor Enhancers

Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs for an aromatic touch.
Red Pepper Flakes: Add a hint of heat.
Fresh Parsley or Lemon Zest: Perfect for garnish and a burst of freshness.

Cooking Tools You’ll Need for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Raw chicken, cream cheese, and garlic in a crockpot with seasonings nearby, ready for cooking.

Having the right tools on hand makes this recipe even easier. Here’s what you’ll need:

Crockpot or Slow Cooker: A 4-6 quart crockpot works best to hold all the ingredients without overcrowding.
Large Pot for Pasta: A deep pot ensures even cooking and prevents pasta from sticking.
Mixing Utensils: Use a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to stir the sauce and pasta gently.
Tongs or Forks for Shredding Chicken: These make it easy to pull the tender chicken apart after slow cooking.
Cheese Grater: Grating fresh Parmesan cheese enhances flavor and melts better than pre-grated options.
Serving Dish: A large bowl or platter allows for beautiful presentation when serving.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

A. Preparing the Chicken and Sauce

Season the Chicken: Season 1½ pounds of boneless chicken breasts (or thighs) with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Assemble in the Crockpot: Place the chicken in the crockpot, then add 4 ounces of cream cheese (cubed), 1 cup of heavy cream, 1½ cups of chicken broth, 1 tablespoon minced garlic, and ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

B. Adding Pasta to the Mix

Cook Pasta Separately: About 20 minutes before the chicken is ready, cook 12 ounces of pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle) to al dente according to package instructions.
Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the crockpot, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot. Stir to combine.
Mix in the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the crockpot, mixing well to coat every piece in the creamy garlic sauce.

C. Garnishing and Serving

Final Touches: Sprinkle with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes for garnish.
Serve and Enjoy: Pair with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Pro Tip: If you’re a fan of bold flavors, consider using homemade Chicken Bouillon Powder to intensify the taste.

Expert Cooking Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

A. Sauce Adjustments

Want it thicker? Stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Prefer it thinner? Add more chicken broth or reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired consistency.

B. Pasta Texture

Always cook pasta to al dente before adding it to the sauce. This prevents it from becoming mushy as it absorbs the sauce.

C. Cooking Variations

Stovetop Method: Sear the chicken, prepare the sauce in the same pan, and combine everything for a quick dinner.
Instant Pot: Use the sauté function to brown the chicken, add the sauce ingredients, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for Special Occasions

While this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, it also shines as a showstopper for special occasions:

Romantic Dinner for Two

Want to impress a loved one? This creamy pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp Caesar salad. Dim the lights, and you’ve got a cozy, romantic setting right at home.

Dinner Parties and Gatherings

Hosting friends or family? Double the recipe to serve a crowd. Offer sides like roasted vegetables or garlic bread for a well-rounded menu. This dish is always a hit because of its universal appeal.

Holidays and Celebrations

Bring this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta to potlucks or holiday feasts as a unique twist on traditional comfort food. Pair it with dishes like our Maryland Fried Chicken for a hearty meal everyone will enjoy.

Whatever the occasion, this pasta is the perfect combination of elegance and ease, making it a reliable go-to recipe for all your celebrations.

Variations and Substitutions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

A. Healthier Options

Use low-fat cream cheese or reduced-fat heavy cream to lighten up the dish.
Replace pasta with spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash for a low-carb version.

B. Adding Vegetables

Toss in fresh spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted broccoli for added nutrition.

C. Flavor Twists

Mix in lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
Try using Buffalo Wild Wings garlic Parmesan sauce for a tangy, bold flavor upgrade.

Storage and Reheating Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

A. Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them properly to maintain the dish’s creamy texture and flavor:

Refrigeration: Transfer the pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Before freezing, let the pasta cool completely to prevent ice crystals from forming.

B. Reheating Tips

When reheating, it’s essential to preserve the sauce’s creamy consistency:

Microwave: Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to the pasta, then reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
Stovetop: Place the pasta in a saucepan over low heat, add a bit of broth or heavy cream, and stir frequently to avoid sticking.
Oven: For larger portions, reheat in a covered oven-safe dish at 350°F for about 20 minutes.

Pro Tip: Avoid reheating multiple times, as it can cause the pasta to dry out. Keep portions separate for easier reheating.

Nutritional Information for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is indulgent yet nutritious. Below is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (serves 6):

Calories: 450-550 (depending on pasta choice and portion size)
Protein: 35g (thanks to the chicken and Parmesan cheese)
Carbohydrates: 40g (adjustable with low-carb pasta)
Fat: 20g (varies with cream cheese or cream substitutes)
Fiber: 3g (higher if vegetables are added)

For a healthier take, use reduced-fat cream cheese and whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli can also boost fiber and vitamins.

Serving Suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

A plated serving of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with parsley and Parmesan cheese, paired with garlic bread and white wine.

This dish is versatile and pairs beautifully with sides that complement its rich, creamy flavor:

Garlic Bread Side: Serve with crusty garlic bread to scoop up every bit of the sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers for a colorful, nutritious addition.
Caesar Salad Pairing: A crisp Caesar salad adds freshness and a crunchy contrast.

For a complete meal, pair your pasta dish with this sweet Crock-Pot Christmas Crack—a surprising yet delightful combination!

FAQs About Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Why is it called “marry me pasta”?

“Marry me pasta” refers to its irresistible taste that some say is so good, it could inspire a marriage proposal! The creamy, cheesy sauce is truly unforgettable, much like this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta.

What is the difference between chicken parmigiana and Parmesan?

Chicken parmigiana is a breaded, fried chicken dish topped with marinara and melted cheese, while chicken Parmesan pasta focuses on creamy, garlic-infused sauce without breading or marinara.

Can you add raw garlic to pasta?

Yes, raw garlic can be added for a punch of flavor, but sautéing it in butter or olive oil first mellows its intensity and enhances its sweetness.

What are the ingredients in Buffalo Wild Wings garlic Parmesan sauce?

Their sauce typically includes Parmesan cheese, garlic, heavy cream, and seasonings like black pepper and salt.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly and cuts down on cooking time.

Final Thoughts on Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the epitome of comfort food: rich, creamy, and brimming with bold garlic and Parmesan flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or a small gathering with friends, it’s a recipe that’s sure to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Its versatility allows you to customize it to suit dietary preferences or spice it up with bold flavors, making it a true crowd-pleaser. The convenience of using a crockpot makes this dish a lifesaver on busy days, ensuring a hearty, homemade meal is always within reach.

If you’ve been searching for a recipe that combines ease, flavor, and the warmth of a home-cooked meal, this one’s for you. So, grab your crockpot and your favorite pasta, and let this creamy delight bring a little joy to your dinner table tonight!

Looking for more creamy pasta recipes or complementary dishes? Check these out:

Try a romantic twist with our Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe for another creamy, flavor-packed alternative.
Discover another cheesy delight with this Chicken Parmesan Alfredo Recipe, perfect for pasta lovers.
Explore this Chicken Apple Sausage Recipe as a flavorful side for your creamy pasta.
Enjoy crispy indulgence with this Maryland Fried Chicken Recipe, a perfect complement to creamy pasta.

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