Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful and simple dish that brings comfort food to a new level. This hearty slow cooker meal combines tender chicken with creamy garlic parmesan sauce, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings. Its ease of preparation ensures you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether it’s a busy weekday evening or a cozy weekend, this recipe fits any occasion beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With minimal prep time, you can set it and forget it while your dinner cooks.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic and parmesan creates a creamy sauce that is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use different types of pasta or add vegetables to tailor the dish to your taste.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike, making mealtime easier.
• Great for Leftovers: Enjoy the leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day, as the flavors only get better!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking much easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring your chicken becomes tender and flavorful over several hours.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes prepping ingredients quick and efficient.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining ingredients before adding them to the slow cooker.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 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
• 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 the chicken breasts with kosher salt and fresh pepper.
2. Place the seasoned chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Sauces

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

Step 3: Incorporate Creamy Ingredients

1. Add cream cheese cubes and parmesan cheese on top of the chicken.
2. Stir gently to combine everything, ensuring the chicken is covered in sauce.

Step 4: Cook

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

Step 5: Shred Chicken

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

Step 6: Cook Pasta

1. Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions.
2. Drain well and add cooked pasta into the crockpot.
3. Stir everything together until combined thoroughly.

Now you have a delicious Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta ready to serve! Enjoy this comforting meal with your family and friends!

How to Serve Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delicious and creamy dish that can be customized in various ways to suit your meal. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
• Basil Leaves: Add a few basil leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the garlic and parmesan.

Pair with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Crusty Baguette: A sliced baguette can be perfect for soaking up every bit of sauce.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crispness of a Caesar salad contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta.
• Garden Salad: A simple garden salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the dish.

Offer Extra Cheese

• Parmesan Shavings: Provide additional parmesan cheese for those who love extra cheesiness.
• Mozzarella: Melted mozzarella on top can add another layer of creamy goodness.

How to Perfect Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

To ensure your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality chicken breasts and sauces for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Monitor cooking times closely to avoid dry chicken; it should be tender and juicy.
• Stir Occasionally: If possible, stir the mixture halfway through cooking to ensure even flavor distribution.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency before adding pasta.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables add color and nutrients, complementing the rich pasta.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy crunch that contrasts with the creaminess of the pasta.
3. Caprese Salad: This fresh salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil adds brightness to your plate.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms make an excellent appetizer alongside this hearty dish.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that balances out the flavors of the pasta.
6. Macaroni Salad: A cold macaroni salad brings a fun twist and pairs well with cheesy dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to overlook some crucial steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping seasoning: Always season your chicken with salt and pepper before cooking. This enhances the flavor of the dish significantly.
• Not using enough sauce: Ensure you pour the entire bottle of parmesan garlic sauce over the chicken. This keeps the dish moist and flavorful.
• Ignoring cooking times: Pay attention to the cooking times for high and low settings. Overcooking can dry out the chicken.
• Forgetting to shake the milk: Don’t forget to shake the empty sauce bottle with milk before pouring it into the crockpot. This helps combine flavors effectively.
• Underestimating pasta cooking: Cook pasta according to package instructions and drain well. Undercooked pasta won’t absorb flavors properly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed throughout.
• Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring often until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute with your favorite pasta such as macaroni or fusilli depending on your preference.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Consider using whole grain pasta and low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version of this creamy dish.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Just increase the cooking time by about an hour if using frozen chicken in your crockpot.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can enhance both flavor and nutrition in your meal.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a deliciously creamy and hearty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different vegetables or pasta shapes, making it an ideal choice for any family dinner. Give it a try; you’ll love how simple yet flavorful it is!