Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Weeknight Wonder: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in Your Slow Cooker

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe is your shortcut to comfort food bliss. Imagine a hearty and flavorful meal prepared with minimal effort - simply toss everything into your slow cooker and let it work its magic. The result? A pot overflowing with creamy, cheesy perfection, ready to satisfy your taste buds and fill your home with delicious aromas.

Why This Slow Cooker Pasta is a Must-Try:

• Effortless Weeknight Hero: This recipe is a lifesaver for busy schedules. There's no need to stand over a hot stove or scramble to prepare a last-minute meal. Simply throw the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it simmer while you attend to other tasks. Dinner practically cooks itself, freeing up your time for other priorities.
• Flavor Explosion in Every Bite: The combination of tangy garlic parmesan sauce, melty cream cheese, and a generous sprinkle of shredded parmesan cheese creates a symphony of flavors that bursts forth with every mouthful. Each bite is an indulgence in creamy richness and savory goodness.
• Family-Friendly Favorite: This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, especially for those who adore cheesy goodness. The creamy sauce and tender chicken are a winning combination that's sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. It's perfect for feeding a hungry family or a group of friends, making it a great choice for casual get-togethers.

Ingredients for Your Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Adventure:

• The Savory Base:
• 1 (12 oz.) bottle of your favorite Garlic Parmesan Sauce (such as Buffalo Wild Wings brand) - this forms the base of the flavorful sauce
• The Protein Star:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts - cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking (optional)
• The Creamy Dream Team:
• 1 cup milk (whole milk adds a richer flavor, but low-fat can be substituted) - thins the sauce and adds creaminess
• 8 oz. cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes - adds richness and depth of flavor
• The Cheesy Trio:
• 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese (use a good quality cheese for the best flavor) - the first layer of cheesy goodness
• Reserved Parmesan Sauce (optional) - for extra cheesy flavor (see instructions)
• Additional parmesan cheese for serving (optional) - a final flourish of cheesy delight
• The Pasta Perfection:
• 12 oz. dried pasta (your choice of shape) - choose a shape that will hold the sauce well, such as penne, rotini, or farfalle

Step-by-Step Guide to Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bliss:

1. Crockpot Prep: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces, if desired) in a single layer at the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour the entire bottle of Garlic Parmesan Sauce over the chicken, ensuring all the pieces are evenly coated.
2. Stretching the Flavor: Here's a handy tip to maximize the flavor! Fill the empty Parmesan Garlic Sauce bottle with milk and shake it well to collect any remaining sauce clinging to the sides. This flavored milk adds an extra layer of parmesan goodness to your dish. Pour the flavored milk into the crockpot along with any remaining sauce in the bottle.
3. Creamy Dream Team: Add the cream cheese, cut into cubes, to the crockpot. Then, sprinkle the 1 cup of shredded parmesan cheese on top. Give everything a quick stir to combine the ingredients and ensure the chicken is coated with the sauce.
4. Slow Cooker Magic: Cover your slow cooker and cook the chicken mixture on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The low and slow cooking allows the flavors to meld and infuse the chicken, resulting in perfectly tender and juicy pieces.
5. Shredding for Success: Once the cooking time is complete, use two forks to shred the cooked chicken directly in the crockpot. Shredding the chicken in the pot incorporates it back into the creamy sauce, creating a cohesive and flavorful dish.
6. Pasta Perfection: While the chicken simmers in the slow cooker, cook your chosen pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander.
7. The Grand Finale: Gently stir the cooked pasta into the crockpot, combining it with the creamy sauce and shredded chicken. For an extra cheesy treat (optional), reserve some of the leftover Parmesan Garlic Sauce from the bottle and add a drizzle or two to the crockpot after incorporating the pasta. Stir gently to distribute the extra sauce evenly.

Dinnertime Delight: Dish up your delicious Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta and savor the flavor explosion in every bite. Sprinkle with additional parmesan cheese (optional) for a final flourish and serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the creamy sauce. This recipe is sure to become a weeknight staple that your family will love.

Tips for Crockpot Perfection:

• Chicken Size Matters: While cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces is not mandatory, it ensures even cooking throughout. If you prefer larger pieces of chicken, simply adjust the cooking time accordingly. For larger pieces, cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
• Spice it Up (Optional): For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of your favorite chili powder to the crockpot along with the cream cheese and parmesan cheese.
• Veggie Variations: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the crockpot for an extra boost of nutrients and flavor. Broccoli florets, chopped carrots, or sliced mushrooms would all be delicious additions. Add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking to ensure they don't become mushy.
• Leftovers Bliss: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions:

• Classic Comfort: Pair your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with a simple green salad and crusty garlic bread for a classic and satisfying comfort food meal.
• Garden Fresh: Serve the pasta alongside a plate of roasted vegetables for a more well-rounded and healthy dinner option.
• Dinner and a Show: This dish is perfect for casual get-togethers. Serve it with a side of dinner rolls and your favorite movie for a relaxed and enjoyable evening with friends and family.

With its ease of preparation, irresistible flavor, and versatility, this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a recipe you'll turn to again and again. So ditch the takeout menus and busy weeknight stress. Simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, let it simmer, and savor a delicious and comforting meal that everyone will love.