Print

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 129 reviews

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish made in a crockpot for easy meal preparation. Tender chicken breasts are slow-cooked with garlic, Italian seasoning, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce, then combined with perfectly cooked penne pasta. It’s an effortless one-pot meal that delivers rich flavors and a satisfying texture, perfect for a hearty family dinner.

Ingredients

Chicken and Sauce

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lower-calorie option)
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Pasta

  • 8 oz penne pasta

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
  2. Add liquids and garlic: Add the minced garlic, chicken broth, and heavy cream over the chicken, spreading evenly to infuse the flavors throughout the slow cooking process.
  3. Slow cook the chicken: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender enough to shred easily with a fork.
  4. Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot to mix with the sauce.
  5. Add Parmesan cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy consistency.
  6. Cook the pasta: Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and add the pasta to the crockpot, stirring gently to coat each piece with the creamy sauce.
  7. Serve: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a touch of color and freshness.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but expect a slightly thinner sauce.
  • Be sure to cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed in the crockpot.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
  • Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.