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Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the kind of dish that quietly works its magic while you go about your day. With tender chicken slow cooked in a creamy garlic parmesan sauce, it's a dinner that fills the house with irresistible aromas and comes together with minimal effort. I first made this for a family movie night, and now it's become a regular request whenever we want something cozy and filling.
I love how the pasta soaks up all the flavors of the sauce making each bite better than the last
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: give a lean protein base that stays juicy in the slow cooker
- Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce: infuses deep savory and garlicky flavor
- Cream cheese: brings a luscious creamy texture that blends smoothly into the sauce
- Freshly grated parmesan: adds a bold cheesy kick and enhances the richness
- Whole or 2 percent milk: balances the sauce's consistency without overpowering
- Your choice of pasta: such as rotini or penne works well to hold the sauce in every crevice
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season the Chicken:
- Sprinkle chicken breasts with salt and pepper then place them at the bottom of the crockpot ensuring even coverage for flavor from the start
- Add the Sauce Base:
- Pour the entire bottle of parmesan garlic sauce over the chicken then add milk to the empty bottle shake and pour it in to capture every bit of flavor
- Incorporate the Cheeses:
- Scatter cubed cream cheese and grated parmesan over the chicken then stir gently to combine coating the chicken well in the sauce mixture
- Slow Cook Until Tender:
- Cover and cook on high for 2 to 3 hours or low for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and easily shreds
- Shred and Return:
- Remove chicken to a cutting board shred with two forks or dice into bite sized pieces then return it to the crockpot mixing it back into the sauce
- Prepare the Pasta:
- Cook pasta according to package directions drain well and add to the crockpot stirring until every piece is coated in the creamy sauce
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My favorite part of this recipe is the parmesan garlic sauce which clings beautifully to the pasta and chicken I remember making a double batch once so we could freeze half but the family ended up eating it all within two days
Storage Tips
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce silky
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap chicken breasts for thighs for richer flavor or use rotisserie chicken for a faster stovetop version Try a different brand of parmesan garlic sauce if you can't find Buffalo Wild Wings
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little extra kick
Cultural Context
While slow cooker pasta dishes are a modern convenience the pairing of chicken garlic and parmesan has Italian roots adapted here with American comfort food flair
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Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness to the dish. Adjust cooking time as needed.
- → What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta like rotini, penne, or bow ties holds the sauce well, but spaghetti or fettuccine can also be used.
- → Can I make this without a crockpot?
Yes, you can cook it on the stovetop in under 30 minutes by simmering the sauce and adding shredded chicken.
- → How can I make it lighter?
Use low-fat cream cheese and 1% or 2% milk, or swap some pasta for vegetables like zucchini noodles.
- → Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat with added milk or cream to restore creaminess.
- → What can I serve with it?
It pairs well with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread.