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.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Easy Crockpot Dinner Recipe

Description

This creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a comforting and easy-to-make crockpot dinner. Loaded with tender chicken, cheesy garlic sauce, and al dente pasta, it’s a family-friendly recipe perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

1½ lbs boneless chicken breasts or thighs
4 oz cream cheese, cubed
1 cup heavy cream
1½ cups chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp minced garlic
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
12 oz penne, rotini, or farfalle pasta
2 tbsp butter or olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Additional grated Parmesan, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Place them in the crockpot.
Add Sauce Ingredients: Add cream cheese, heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes, if using.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Cook Pasta: About 20 minutes before the chicken is ready, cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the sauce and stir well.
Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the crockpot and mix until fully coated in the garlic Parmesan sauce.
Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh parsley, additional Parmesan, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For a thicker sauce, add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a gluten-free or low-carb option.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Category: Dinner
Method: Crockpot
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 480 kcal
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 780 mg
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 12 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 40 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 32 g
Cholesterol: 120 mg

Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Pasta, Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta, Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta