Slow Cooker Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta is one of my favorite recipes. It’s easy to make and fills the house with a wonderful smell. When I first tried it, I was looking for something comforting after a long day. The idea of a warm, cheesy dish made me feel happy, and I knew this recipe would be a hit. As the chicken cooked slowly, the cheese melted beautifully, creating a creamy sauce that coated every bite of pasta.
Gathering Ingredients
To make Slow Cooker Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta, I gathered all the ingredients I needed. I used chicken breasts, pasta, garlic, and of course, lots of cheese! I love how simple the ingredients are. I diced the chicken and added it to the slow cooker. Then, I mixed in the minced garlic and a little bit of broth. Finally, I tossed in the uncooked pasta and topped it all with cheese. The slow cooker does the hard work, and I get to enjoy a delicious meal later.
The Waiting Game
While waiting for the Slow Cooker Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta to cook, I did a few things around the house. The smell filled the air, and it was hard not to peek! I kept imagining how tasty it would be. After a few hours, I couldn’t resist checking on it. When I opened the lid, I saw the cheese bubbling and the pasta perfectly cooked. It looked amazing, and I knew it would taste even better!
When the Slow Cooker Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta was ready, I served it with a sprinkle of parsley on top. I couldn’t wait to take the first bite. As I tasted it, the creamy sauce and tender chicken made me smile. It felt like a warm hug on a plate. Sharing this meal with my family made it even better, as we all enjoyed the cheesy goodness together. It’s a recipe I’ll keep making because it brings comfort and joy to our table!
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Slow Cooker Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta
- For extra flavor, consider browning the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. This step is optional but can enhance the dish’s overall richness.
- Make sure to arrange the chicken in a single layer in the slow cooker. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less tender chicken.
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the slow cooker. They will cook down and add flavor and nutrition to the dish.
- Cook the pasta until just al dente since it will absorb some sauce while sitting. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a splash of chicken broth or extra sauce before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers for up to three days in the fridge or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, you may want to add a bit of liquid to maintain creaminess.
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can brighten the dish’s flavors. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for added richness.
Slow Cooker Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta
4
servings5
minutes4
hours1074
kcal4
hours5
minutesIndulge in the ultimate comforting meal with this Easy Slow Cooker Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta! Bursting with rich Parmesan and creamy garlic flavors, this dish combines tender chicken, velvety cream cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta for a satisfying family dinner. Effortlessly prepared in the crockpot, it’s perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing taste. Garnished with fresh parsley and a hint of spice from red pepper flakes, every bite is a delightful blend of savory goodness. Whether you’re craving a hearty main course or a crowd-pleasing meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen arsenal. Dive into deliciousness tonight!
Ingredients
2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts
1.5 cups creamy garlic Parmesan sauce
1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
8 ounces cream cheese cubed
10 ounces uncooked pasta of your choice
Chopped fresh parsley
- Finishing Touches:
Chopped fresh parsley
Red pepper flakes to taste
- Alternative Ingredients:
Parmesan garlic sauce → Alfredo sauce or a homemade garlic cream sauce
Boneless skinless chicken breasts → turkey breasts or tofu for a vegetarian option
Cream cheese → Greek yogurt or dairy-free cream cheese
Parmesan cheese → Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for vegan
Dry pasta → gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for low-carb
Parsley → cilantro or basil for garnish
Red pepper flakes → cayenne pepper or paprika
Directions
- Prepare Slow Cooker – Begin by lightly spraying the interior of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. This ensures easy cleanup and helps ingredients blend seamlessly during cooking.
- Layer Chicken and Sauce – Arrange the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Pour the entire bottle of creamy garlic Parmesan sauce over the chicken, evenly coating each piece for maximum flavor infusion.
- Add Cheeses – Distribute the cubed cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the sauce-covered chicken. The cheeses will melt during the cooking process, creating a rich and creamy texture.
- Cook – Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Cooking on low allows the flavors to meld beautifully, while high heat speeds up the process without compromising taste.
- Shred Chicken and Combine – Once cooked, use two forks to shred the tender chicken directly in the slow cooker. Stir the shredded chicken into the creamy sauce to ensure it’s well coated and flavorful.
- Prepare Pasta and Final Assembly – Cook the dry pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain using a colander. Add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker, stirring to combine everything thoroughly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of color and heat. Serve warm and enjoy!
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- colander
- Mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is not overcrowded in the slow cooker to maintain tenderness. Browning the chicken before adding it can add deeper flavor, though it’s optional. For a balanced meal, serve this pasta alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. To enhance the dish, consider adding mushrooms or spinach during the cooking process. A squeeze of lemon juice before serving can also brighten the flavors. Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers for up to three days or frozen for longer storage, making it a great option for meal prepping.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 1074kcal
- Fat: 64g
- Saturated Fat: 37g
- Cholesterol: 302mg
- Sodium: 919mg
- Potassium: 1094mg
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 66g
- Vitamin A: 1990IU
- Vitamin C: 3mg
- Calcium: 239mg
- Iron: 2mg
FAQ- Slow Cooker Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by an hour on low or 30 minutes on high. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
What type of pasta works best?
You can use any pasta you like! Common choices include penne, rotini, or fettuccine. For a low-carb option, zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta are great alternatives.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Substitute cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese or Greek yogurt, and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can layer the chicken and sauce ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before and refrigerate it. In the morning, just place it in the slow cooker and cook as directed.
What should I serve with cheesy garlic chicken pasta?
This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread to complete your meal. A simple side of roasted broccoli or green beans also complements the flavors beautifully.
