Introduction
There’s something indescribably comforting about a bowl of pasta. Perhaps it’s the memories of family dinners shared around the table, or the cozy warmth that envelops you on chilly nights while you curl up with your favorite meal. Today, I’m excited to share a heartwarming recipe that has become a staple in our household: Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for busy weekdays or a relaxed weekend gathering. Trust me, once you smell the garlic and parmesan dancing in your kitchen, your heart will be singing with joy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not only easy to make but also packed with flavors that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. Here’s why this dish is sure to warm your heart:
- Comforting and Rich Flavors: Creamy garlic and parmesan create the ultimate comforting dish.
- Family Friendly: A recipe that even the pickiest eaters will adore.
- Easy Recipe: Simply toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work!
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make enough for leftovers and enjoy it throughout the week.
- Quick Dinner Idea: Set it and forget it; it’s ready when you are.
Ingredients
To whip up this delicious dish, you’ll need a handful of ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken Breasts (4 pieces): The star of the show; boneless, skinless is best for optimal tenderness.
- Garlic (6 cloves, minced): Adds a punch of flavor; feel free to adjust based on your love for garlic.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth (2 cups): Keeps everything moist and infuses a savory taste.
- Cream Cheese (8 oz): This gives the dish its luscious creaminess.
- Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, grated): For that irresistible cheesy flavor. Nutritional yeast can be used as a dairy-free substitute.
- Fettuccine Pasta (12 oz): The ultimate pasta choice for this dish, but any pasta will work in a pinch.
- Dried Italian Herbs (2 tsp): A mix of basil, oregano, and thyme brings the flavors of Italy to your kitchen.
- Salt and Pepper to taste: Simple seasonings enhance all the flavors.
Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours on low or 2 hours on high
- Total Time: 4 to 6 hours
With such a quick setup, you’ll have a meal that’s ready faster than takeout, perfect for those hectic evenings when you just want to spend quality time with your loved ones.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. Season them with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian herbs.
- Add Garlic and Broth: Scatter the minced garlic over the chicken and pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is submerged.
- Creamy Goodness: Cut the cream cheese into smaller chunks and place it on top of the chicken mixture. Don’t stir yet!
- Manual Magic: Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours. Your kitchen will smell amazing at this point.
- Cook the Pasta: About 30 minutes before your chicken is done, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions to al dente.
- Mix It All Together: Once the chicken is cooked and tender, shred it using two forks right in the crockpot. Stir in parmesan cheese and the remaining herbs until everything is creamy.
- Combine and Serve: Once the pasta is cooked, fold it into the crockpot mixture. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of extra parmesan and some fresh parsley if desired.
Tips and Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own. Here are some fun twists to try:
- Veggie Loaded: Toss in some spinach or kale in the last 15 minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Substitute Proteins: Try using shrimp or turkey for a different flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute with gluten-free pasta and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free as well.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp garden salad and a glass of white wine, creating a well-rounded meal that delights the senses. Imagine sitting down at your dining table, surrounded by loved ones, sharing laughter and stories as everyone digs into their comforting bowls of Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Serve up with some garlic bread for a truly indulgent experience!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which are almost guaranteed), simply transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or in the microwave until warmed through.
Pro Tips from the Kitchen
- Chicken Alternatives: Thighs work wonderfully for a richer flavor profile.
- Cheese Lovers Unite: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella for a gooey texture.
- Bathe in Flavor: Letting the chicken soak in the broth overnight before cooking intensifies the flavors.
- Watch the Timing: Be mindful not to overcook the chicken; you want it to shred perfectly, not dry out.
- Always Stir Before Serving: Give it one last gentle stir to ensure all flavors meld together beautifully.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! Just remember to add extra cooking time if you’re starting with frozen chicken.
2. How can I make this dairy-free?
Simply replace cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.
3. Can I cook this recipe in a pressure cooker?
Yes! If you’re short on time, you can pressure cook for about 10 minutes, followed by a quick release.
4. What if I want to add vegetables?
Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms. Just add them halfway through cooking.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare everything the night before and cook it in the morning for a hassle-free dinner.
Conclusion
There you have it—your new favorite comfort food that’s sure to become a family tradition. This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a chance to gather around the table, share stories, and create lasting memories. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, share it with family and friends, and make it part of your own culinary traditions. Happy cooking, and may every bowl bring warmth to your heart and home!
Contents
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces Chicken Breasts Boneless, skinless is best for optimal tenderness.
- 6 cloves Garlic, minced Feel free to adjust based on your love for garlic.
- 2 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Keeps everything moist and infuses a savory taste.
- 8 oz Cream Cheese This gives the dish its luscious creaminess.
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated Nutritional yeast can be used as a dairy-free substitute.
- 12 oz Fettuccine Pasta The ultimate pasta choice for this dish.
- 2 tsp Dried Italian Herbs A mix of basil, oregano, and thyme.
- to taste Salt and Pepper Simple seasonings enhance all the flavors.
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. Season them with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian herbs.
- Scatter the minced garlic over the chicken and pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is submerged.
- Cut the cream cheese into smaller chunks and place it on top of the chicken mixture. Don’t stir yet!
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours. Your kitchen will smell amazing at this point.
- About 30 minutes before your chicken is done, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions to al dente.
- Once the chicken is cooked and tender, shred it using two forks right in the crockpot. Stir in parmesan cheese and the remaining herbs until everything is creamy.
- Once the pasta is cooked, fold it into the crockpot mixture. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of extra parmesan and some fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.
📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest