Total Time: 4–6 hours
Difficulty Level: Super Easy, Dump-and-Go
If you’re craving a bowl of pure comfort—creamy, garlicky, cheesy, and soul-warming—this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is exactly the kind of dinner that hits the spot. Tender shredded chicken is enveloped in a silky garlic-Parmesan sauce that coats every noodle like a warm hug. The aroma is heavenly: buttery garlic, rich cream, and nutty Parmesan melting together into the ultimate slow-cooked sauce.
This dish is special because it transforms a handful of simple, affordable ingredients into a restaurant-level pasta without any fuss. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or anytime you want a no-stress dinner that still feels indulgent. Expect around 480–540 calories per serving, depending on portion size and pasta type.
Key Ingredients
Chicken Breasts – Tender protein that absorbs the garlicky sauce
Pasta (Rotini or Penne) – Holds the creamy sauce beautifully
Cream Cheese – Makes the sauce thick, silky, and luscious
Heavy Cream – Adds richness and body
Parmesan Cheese – Nutty, salty, cheesy depth
Garlic (fresh or jarred) – Warm, fragrant backbone of the dish
Chicken Broth – Balances out the creaminess with savory flavor
Italian Seasoning – Herb blend that complements Parmesan
Butter – Optional, but adds richness + helps garlic bloom
Onion Powder – Adds sweetness without needing to chop onions
Black Pepper – Balances the creamy sauce
Fresh Parsley – Brights the dish and adds color
Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Gives gentle heat
Spinach (optional) – Adds fresh greens at the end
How to Make It (Step-by-Step Method)
1. Build the Base
Add chicken breasts to the bottom of your slow cooker. Sprinkle with garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
2. Add Broth + Dairy Components
Pour chicken broth around the chicken. Add cream cheese (cubed) on top. You can add a small pat of butter here for extra flavor.
3. Slow Cook Until Tender
- Low: 5–6 hours
- High: 3–4 hours
Chicken should easily shred with a fork.
4. Shred the Chicken
Remove chicken, shred, and return to the crockpot. Stir everything to melt and combine the cream cheese into a creamy base.
5. Add Pasta
Pour uncooked pasta directly into the sauce. Add heavy cream and stir so all the noodles are coated and submerged.
Cook on HIGH for 20–30 minutes, stirring once halfway through. Pasta should be tender but not mushy.
6. Add Parmesan + Optional Spinach
Stir in freshly grated Parmesan until melted and smooth. Fold in spinach if using, letting it wilt for 2–3 minutes.
Texture cues: sauce should be creamy, glossy, and thick enough to coat the noodles.
Serving Suggestions
Cozy Bowls
Serve in deep pasta bowls topped with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley.
Family-Style Platter
Spread pasta on a large serving dish with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
Pair With:
- Garlic bread or cheesy toast
- Caesar salad
- Roasted broccoli
- Steamed green beans
Meal Prep Containers
Portion into airtight containers; add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to loosen the sauce.
Storage + Meal Prep
Refrigerate:
Keeps well for 3–4 days. The sauce thickens but reheats beautifully.
Freeze:
Not recommended—cream and pasta can separate or become mushy.
Reheat:
Microwave or warm on the stove with a splash of cream or broth. Add fresh parsley and Parmesan to revive flavors.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the definition of comfort food—creamy, garlicky, and irresistibly cheesy. It’s easy enough for a busy weeknight but delicious enough to serve when friends come over. One of those beloved slow-cooker meals that never disappoints.
I hope you try it, customize it, and make it a regular in your rotation. Whether you add spinach, swap the pasta, or adjust the seasonings, it’s a dish that welcomes your personal touch. When you make it, come back and share your version—I love hearing how these recipes come to life in your kitchen!
