Effortless Comfort in a Bowl
Looking for a dinner that practically cooks itself? This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate solution for busy evenings. It is creamy, rich, and packed with bold garlicky flavors, delivering a gourmet-level finish with minimal effort.
At Healthy Good Food, we love a quick kitchen win that doesn’t sacrifice taste, and this slow cooker dinner is pure comfort food magic.
1. The Ingredients List (Serves 4–6)
The Protein & Liquid Base:
- 1½ lbs Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless for a protein-packed foundation.
- 4 Cloves Garlic: Minced for that signature bold seasoning blend.
- 2 Cups Chicken Broth: For a rich savory flavor base.
The Creamy Sauce Trio:
- 1 Cup Heavy Cream: (or half-and-half) for a smooth and creamy texture.
- 8 oz Cream Cheese: Cubed to melt into a rich smothered sauce.
- 1 Cup Freshly Grated Parmesan: For that salty, nutty, and glossy finish.
The Pantry Essentials:
- 12 oz Penne or Rotini Pasta: Cooked until al dente.
- Seasoning: 1 tsp Italian seasoning, ½ tsp black pepper, and salt to taste.
- Garnish: Fresh parsley and 1 tbsp butter (optional) for extra richness.
2. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Into the Crockpot
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, minced garlic, and the spice blend. This sets the stage for a tender chicken result.
Step 2: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is fork-tender and ready to be shredded.
Step 3: Shred & Blend
Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot. Stir in the cream cheese and parmesan. Watch as it transforms into an ultra-creamy garlic parmesan sauce.
Step 4: Combine with Pasta
Boil your pasta separately until al dente. Stir the drained pasta into the crockpot sauce. If it’s too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water for a silky smooth finish.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Top with fresh parsley and extra parmesan. It’s an easy family dinner favorite that everyone will crave again and again.
3. Pro Flavor Boost Ideas
- Veggie Power: Add sautéed mushrooms or fresh spinach in the final 30 minutes for a fresh veggie boost.
- Add Texture: Top with crispy bacon bits for a fresh crunchy contrast.
- Bright Finish: Add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving for a juicy flavor pop.
4. Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: ~35g (High-protein comfort!).
- Calories: ~590 kcal.
- Prep Time: 10 Mins | Cook Time: 4–6 Hours.
