Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together creamy flavors and tender chicken in an effortless way. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with family and friends. The slow-cooked chicken absorbs the rich garlic parmesan sauce, creating a comforting meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite pasta and side dishes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply toss all ingredients into the crockpot and let it work its magic while you attend to other tasks.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic and parmesan creates a savory sauce that elevates the dish to a new level of deliciousness.
• Versatile Meal: Pair it with your choice of pasta or serve alongside a fresh salad for a well-rounded dinner.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your household with its creamy texture and comforting taste.
• Ideal for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time, as leftovers taste just as good the next day!

Tools and Preparation

To make this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools to ensure smooth preparation.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Slow cooker
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mixing spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Slow cooker: It allows for hands-off cooking, transforming simple ingredients into a rich meal without constant attention.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient ratios, crucial for achieving the perfect flavor balance.
• Cutting board & Knife: Essential for safely preparing chicken and chopping any additional ingredients you may want to add.

Ingredients

For the Sauce

• 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

For Creaminess

• 8 oz cream cheese (cut into cubes)
• ¼ cup grated or shredded parmesan cheese

For Pasta

• 12 to 16 oz pasta, such as rotini or penne (cooked to package directions)

How to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Season the boneless skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place them at the bottom of the slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Sauce

Pour the entire bottle of parmesan garlic sauce over the chicken.

Step 3: Mix in Milk

Take the empty sauce bottle and add milk. Shake it well and then pour this mixture over the chicken.

Step 4: Incorporate Cheese

Add in both cream cheese cubes and grated parmesan cheese. Stir gently to combine everything, ensuring the chicken is well covered with sauce.

Step 5: Cook

Cover and cook on high for 2 to 3 hours or on low for 3 to 4 hours until chicken is cooked through.

Step 6: Shred Chicken

Once cooked, transfer the chicken onto a plate or cutting board. Use two forks to shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces before returning it back into the slow cooker.

Step 7: Prepare Pasta

While the chicken cooks, prepare your chosen pasta according to package directions. Drain well before adding it to the crockpot. Stir everything together until combined thoroughly.

Now you have an irresistible Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta ready to serve! Enjoy this creamy, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

How to Serve Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a comforting dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.

Include Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Serve alongside steamed broccoli for a nutritious balance.
• Roasted Asparagus: Pair with roasted asparagus to add a crunchy texture.

Offer Bread Options

• Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls can be perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.

How to Perfect Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

For the best results with your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, follow these helpful tips.

• Bold Seasoning: Enhance the flavor of your chicken by seasoning it well before adding it to the crockpot.
• Cream Cheese Temperature: Use room-temperature cream cheese for smoother blending into the sauce.
• Pasta Timing: Add the cooked pasta at the end to prevent it from overcooking and becoming mushy.
• Extra Creaminess: For an even creamier dish, consider adding an extra splash of milk just before serving.
• Slightly Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes.
• Leftover Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; this dish reheats well.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Completing your meal with side dishes can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garden Salad: A light garden salad adds freshness and crunch, balancing out the creamy pasta.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing offers a rich counterpart to the dish’s flavors.
3. Grilled Zucchini: Grilled zucchini provides a smoky flavor that complements the garlic parmesan sauce nicely.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is a delightful addition that pairs wonderfully with creamy dishes.
5. Coleslaw: The tangy crunch of coleslaw can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
6. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf adds protein and texture, making it both filling and healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can lead to dry and tough meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Ignoring seasoning: Skipping salt and pepper can result in bland flavors. Always season your chicken before adding sauces for better taste.
• Not mixing ingredients well: Failing to combine the cream cheese and parmesan with the sauce can lead to uneven flavor distribution. Stir thoroughly before cooking.
• Using the wrong pasta type: Selecting pasta that doesn’t hold sauce well can affect texture. Choose pasta like rotini or penne for the best results.
• Neglecting to check liquid levels: If there’s not enough liquid, the dish may dry out. Ensure you have the right amount of sauce and milk before cooking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• Place cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of milk or water to help it rehydrate while stirring until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish made with tender chicken cooked slowly with garlic parmesan sauce and pasta.

How long does it take to cook?

Cooking time varies based on your crockpot setting; expect about 2-3 hours on high or 3-4 hours on low.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or switch up the cheese types for different flavors.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep as it stores well in both the fridge and freezer.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Consider serving it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.

Conclusion

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is an easy-to-make dish that delivers rich flavors without much effort. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients, making it suitable for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to try this delicious recipe!

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