Introduction
Welcome to a cozy culinary adventure that promises to envelop your kitchen in the enchanting aroma of garlic and Parmesan! This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe is a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or delightful family gatherings. Imagine tender, juicy chicken infused with rich flavors, nestled among perfectly cooked pasta. What’s more, the slow-cooked process allows all the ingredients to meld together into a creamy, dreamy sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into making this fabulous dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is satisfying!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or rotini)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot, allowing them to take center stage.
- Pour the chicken broth over the chicken, creating a flavorful base that will keep everything moist and succulent.
- In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this delightful mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Cover the crockpot and let the magic happen, cooking on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds apart.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it with two forks, letting it soak up all that delicious broth.
- Return the shredded chicken back to the pot, welcoming it back into the flavorful mix.
- Now, stir in the heavy cream and add the uncooked pasta, making sure each piece is lovingly coated in the creamy goodness.
- Cover the crockpot again and cook on low for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the pasta reaches that perfect al dente texture.
- Before serving, give everything a good stir to combine the flavors thoroughly, and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for that beautiful finish.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or broccoli, during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- For an even richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth if you have it handy.
- Leftovers reheat beautifully, making this a fantastic option for meal prep for the week ahead!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe relies on the slow cooking method, allowing the chicken to become incredibly tender and flavorful as it simmers in the broth and spices. Shredding the chicken after cooking not only enhances the texture but also helps the chicken soak up the rich sauce. Using a crockpot makes it super convenient, providing a set-it-and-forget-it experience that gives you more time to enjoy your day.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Simply add an extra hour of cook time to ensure they are fully cooked and tender.
What type of pasta works best?
Penne or rotini are ideal as their shapes hold the creamy sauce beautifully. Feel free to experiment with other pasta types, but ensure they have a similar cooking time.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not only a feast for the senses but also a testament to how simple ingredients can yield spectacular results with minimal effort. As you sit down to enjoy this dish, savor each bite of succulent chicken and creamy pasta, all while enjoying the company of family and friends. Happy cooking!