Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary experience that combines the rich flavors of garlic, creamy Parmesan, and tender chicken, all effortlessly brought together in a trusty crockpot! This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home. Imagine coming back to the intoxicating aroma of Italian herbs and melting cheese wafting through your kitchen as you prepare to indulge in a hearty meal. With minimal prep and a no-fuss cooking process, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 15 minutes (high)
- Yield: 4-6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot, allowing the magic to begin with these juicy cuts of meat.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, heavy cream, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined—this fragrant mixture will infuse deliciousness throughout the dish.
- Pour this creamy concoction over the chicken in the crockpot, covering it thoroughly to lock in flavor.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and can be easily shredded—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks, savoring the soft, tender texture.
- Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce and create a rich and creamy coating.
- While the chicken and sauce mingle, cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside, ready to soak up all that luscious flavor.
- Add the cooked pasta to the crockpot and gently mix until every noodle is bathed in that dreamy sauce.
- Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch and a burst of freshness.
Notes or Tips
For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or fresh spinach at the end for a pop of color and nutrition. This dish not only tastes fantastic, but it also fills your home with a delightful aroma that no one can resist!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe showcases the beauty of slow cooking, which allows the chicken to become incredibly tender while soaking up all the flavors from the garlic and Parmesan. The modest step of shredding the chicken enhances the texture, making each serving every bit as enjoyable. Plus, using a crockpot makes it a stress-free option for meals that require minimal supervision and maximum flavor.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, keep in mind that cooking time may need to be increased by 1-2 hours to ensure they are thoroughly cooked.
Can I prepare this a day ahead?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce the night before, store it in the fridge, and simply pop it in the crockpot the next day. Just add a little extra cook time to make sure everything is heated through.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to gather around the table and enjoy hearty, comforting flavors that bring warmth and joy to your home. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, dinner becomes a cherished moment shared with loved ones. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a staple in your recipe collection!