Name: Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 450 g boneless, skinless chicken breast; 2.5 g fine sea salt; 2.5 g ground black pepper; 5 g smoked paprika; 5 g onion powder; 5 g Italian herb seasoning blend; 15 g minced garlic; Approximately 120 ml Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan sauce; 425 g Alfredo sauce (1 jar); 450 g dried Cellentani pasta or similar short pasta shape; 25 g finely grated Parmesan cheese; 100 g shredded mozzarella cheese; Dried parsley for garnish

Introduction to Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

When life gets busy and dinner prep feels overwhelming, this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is my secret weapon! It’s that warm hug at the end of the day, bringing comfort and joy to the dinner table. With tender chicken simmering in rich, creamy sauces and pasta that just hugs every morsel, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether you’re juggling work, kids, or both, this recipe gives you a cozy meal without taking hours in the kitchen. Trust me, it’s simple, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta checks all the boxes! It’s not just quick and easy to prepare; it’s also an absolute crowd-pleaser. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means fewer dishes to wash! Your family will be begging for seconds, and you’ll love how stress-free dinner can be!

Ingredients for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Gathering the right ingredients for your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta sets the foundation for a comforting meal. Each component plays a crucial role, ensuring flavor and texture come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

Boneless, skinless chicken breast: This is the heart of the dish. It becomes incredibly tender as it cooks, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
Fine sea salt and ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning, these basics enhance the natural flavors of your chicken and sauces.
Smoked paprika: This spice adds a touch of warmth and depth. If you love a little kick, it brings a smoky sweetness to the dish.
Onion powder: A convenient way to incorporate the savory taste of onion without having to chop. It adds a lovely base flavor.
Italian herb seasoning: This delightful blend of herbs transports you to the Italian countryside, bringing a lovely aromatic quality to your pasta.
Minced garlic: Garlic is often hailed as the star of any comforting dish. It delivers that savory, vibrant essence we all adore.
Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan sauce: This sauce infuses a zesty, garlicky richness, making it a key player in our flavor symphony. You can find it in most grocery stores or use your favorite garlic Parmesan sauce.
Alfredo sauce: Creamy goodness in a jar! This adds a frothy base that ties everything together. You can also make homemade Alfredo if you’re feeling adventurous.
Dried Cellentani pasta: The short, twisty shape of Cellentani is perfect for holding the creamy sauce. You can substitute it with other short pasta shapes as needed!
Grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of this cheesy goodness enhances the dish’s creaminess and adds a nutty flavor.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: This melty cheese creates that comforting gooeyness we all crave when diving into a pasta dish.
Dried parsley: A sprinkle of parsley not only elevates the flavor but adds a pop of color for an appealing presentation.

Remember, exact measurements are at the bottom of the article for easy printing, so grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking!

How to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Making Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a breeze, and the steps are simple. Let’s walk through it together, so you can create that warm, cozy dish. You’ll be amazed at how effortless it is!

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Add a sprinkle of salt, pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and Italian herbs. This seasoning blend is the flavor base that elevates your chicken. Next, add minced garlic and pour in the Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan sauce—a generous amount is crucial! Finish this step by topping with a jar of creamy Alfredo sauce.

Step 2: Slow Cook to Perfection

Once everything is in the slow cooker, set it to low and let it work its magic for about 4 hours. The slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a tender chicken that practically falls apart. Trust me, your house will smell fantastic, making it tough to resist sneaking a bite before dinner!

Step 3: Shred and Return

After the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Returning the shredded chicken back into the pot will blend it seamlessly with that savory sauce. This method ensures every bite is savory and full of flavor, making it extra delightful!

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While your chicken is slow-cooked to perfection, it’s time to focus on the pasta. Boil a large pot of salted water and add your dried Cellentani pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, typically for about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water in case you need to loosen up the sauce later!

Step 5: Combine and Melt

Now that the chicken and pasta are ready, it’s time to bring it all together. Add the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese into the slow cooker. Gently stir everything until the cheese is melted and the sauce is wonderfully smooth. Stirring is key as it envelops every bit of pasta in a creamy blanket of cheesy goodness.

Step 6: Final Mixing

Finally, add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker. Gently mix it in, ensuring that each piece of pasta is evenly coated with that luscious sauce. You want every bite to be bursting with flavor! For a finishing touch, sprinkle some dried parsley for color. It’s time to eat!

Tips for Success

Always season your chicken well for the best flavor.
If you’re short on time, prep the chicken and sauces the night before.
Don’t skip the shredded cheese; it makes a world of difference!
Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
Try adding veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

Equipment Needed

Slow cooker: The magic-maker for this recipe. If you don’t have one, a Dutch oven works in a pinch, though cooking times will vary.
Large pot: Essential for boiling the pasta—go for a sturdy one.
Measuring cups and spoons: Helpful for adding the right amounts of sauces and seasonings.
Two forks: Great for shredding the chicken. You can also use a stand mixer for a hands-free option!
Large mixing spoon: Ideal for combining everything at the end.

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with bite-sized cauliflower or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth for added flavor.
Whole Wheat Pasta: Make this dish even healthier by opting for whole wheat pasta instead of regular. It adds more fiber and nutrients.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the slow cooker for a spicy twist that will heat things up!
Add Veggies: Toss in some fresh spinach, diced bell peppers, or frozen peas during the last hour of cooking for a pop of color and nutrition.
Dairy-Free Version: Use a dairy-free Alfredo sauce and swap the cheeses for dairy-free alternatives to make this recipe suitable for lactose intolerance.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with a simple side salad for freshness.
A crusty garlic bread complements this dish perfectly, ideal for soaking up extra sauce.
Serve with a light white wine like Pinot Grigio for an elegant touch.
Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.

FAQs about Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

You might have some burning questions about Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered! Here are a few common inquiries and answers to help you make the most of this dish:

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken, but be sure to extend the cooking time. It may take around 5-6 hours on low heat for the chicken to cook thoroughly.

Can I prep this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce the night before. Just cover and refrigerate. In the morning, pop it all in the slow cooker for a fabulous dinner when you get home!

Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
Definitely! You can use low-fat Alfredo sauce and reduce the amount of cheese. Incorporating more veggies is also a great way to lighten things up without sacrificing flavor.

What if I don’t have Cellentani pasta?
No problem! Feel free to substitute with any short pasta shape you love, such as penne or rotini. They’ll still soak up that creamy sauce beautifully!

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container. Just remember to reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out.

Final Thoughts

Sharing a plate of Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta feels like wrapping your family in a cozy blanket of love. This dish not only brings together a medley of flavors but also creates precious moments around the dinner table. As the aromas waft through your home, you’ll find a little extra joy in gathering everyone for a meal. Just knowing that a delicious, stress-free dinner is waiting makes every busy day more manageable. So, roll up your sleeves and indulge in this comforting delight—your family will thank you, and so will your heart!