Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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Author: Madilyn
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There’s nothing quite like a cozy bowl of Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta after a long day. This creamy, flavorful, and ultra-satisfying meal combines tender slow-cooked chicken with a rich garlic parmesan sauce that clings perfectly to every bite of pasta. It’s one of those “dump and go” recipes that makes weeknight dinners effortless yet absolutely delicious.

Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta 6

With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this crock pot favorite will become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving a warm comfort dish, this recipe has you covered.

Why You’ll Love Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

1. Easy and Convenient
This recipe is the ultimate hands-off meal. Simply toss everything into the crock pot and let it do all the work for you. No need to babysit a skillet or stand by the stove — just set it, forget it, and come back to a mouthwatering, creamy chicken pasta. Cleanup is a breeze, especially if you use slow cooker liners.

2. Irresistible Garlic Parmesan Flavor
The star of this dish is the creamy garlic parmesan sauce. The combination of garlic, cheese, and cream creates an indulgent, savory flavor that’s impossible to resist. Slow cooking allows the chicken to soak up all those rich notes, resulting in every bite being full of deliciousness.

3. Juicy, Tender Chicken Every Time
Cooking chicken in the crock pot keeps it moist and flavorful. Once it’s cooked, it shreds effortlessly and blends perfectly into the sauce, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture that pairs beautifully with the pasta.

4. Family and Kid-Friendly
This is one of those recipes everyone loves — creamy, cheesy, and comforting. Kids go crazy for it, and adults can’t get enough. Pair it with some garlic bread or a light salad, and you have the perfect family dinner.

5. Budget-Friendly Comfort Food
With just a few simple ingredients — chicken, cream cheese, milk, parmesan, and pasta — you can feed a family without spending a fortune. It’s a great option for busy nights or hosting friends without breaking the bank.

6. Great for Meal Prep
Make a big batch and store it for the week! It reheats beautifully with just a splash of milk or cream to revive its creamy texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients:

  • 12 oz bottle of garlic parmesan wing sauce – Buffalo Wild Wings brand works great, but any creamy garlic parmesan sauce will do.
  • 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Thin-sliced chicken cooks faster and shreds easily.
  • 8 oz cream cheese – This gives the sauce its smooth, velvety texture.
  • 1 large onion, chopped – Adds depth and subtle sweetness.
  • 1 cup milk – Use whole, 2%, or even almond milk.
  • ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese – Freshly grated is best for flavor.
  • 16 oz rotini pasta – The spiral shape holds onto the sauce beautifully.

For Garnish:
Fresh parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes for color and a mild kick.

How to Make Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Load the Crock Pot
Add raw chicken breasts, cream cheese, chopped onion, garlic parmesan sauce, and milk into your crock pot. No need to stir — just layer everything evenly.

Step 2: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours or high for 1–2 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and fork-tender.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot and stir to combine it with the sauce. The cream cheese will melt and blend into a luscious, creamy sauce.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta Separately
Prepare the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and add it directly to the crock pot with the chicken mixture. Sprinkle in the grated parmesan and stir well to coat every piece.

Step 5: Let It Thicken
Cover and cook for another 10–15 minutes on low so the flavors meld together and the pasta absorbs the sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Top with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Serve warm and enjoy the rich, creamy goodness.

What to Serve with Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

  • Garlic Bread: A crispy side of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce.
  • Fresh Green Salad: Balance out the richness with a light salad of greens, tomatoes, and cucumber.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, carrots, or zucchini complement this dish beautifully.
  • Caprese Salad: For a fresh twist, pair with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze.

Tips and Tricks

  • Use freshly grated parmesan for a stronger, fresher flavor.
  • Cook the pasta separately to prevent it from getting soggy.
  • Want it creamier? Add a splash of heavy cream during the last 15 minutes.
  • Shred while hot: Warm chicken shreds more easily and absorbs more flavor.
  • Let it rest: After cooking, let the pasta sit covered for 5–10 minutes to thicken the sauce.

Must-Try Variations

  • Spinach and Mushroom: Add fresh spinach and sautéed mushrooms for a veggie boost.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for tangy sweetness.
  • Add Heat: Mix in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy version.
  • Lemon Zest & Herbs: Add brightness with lemon zest and fresh basil or parsley.
  • Broccoli & Cauliflower: Stir in steamed florets for a balanced one-pot meal.
  • Bacon & Peas: Crumble crispy bacon and mix with peas for extra texture and flavor.
  • Mediterranean Twist: Try artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, and olives.
  • Creamy Pesto Upgrade: Stir in a few spoonfuls of pesto for an herby twist.

Can I Use Frozen Chicken?

Yes! Frozen chicken can be used — just increase the cook time by 1–2 extra hours on low or about 1 hour on high. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked before shredding. You may notice extra liquid, so adjust the sauce by adding more parmesan or using less milk if needed.

Can I Cook Pasta in the Crock Pot?

It’s best not to. Cooking pasta directly in the crock pot can make it mushy. For perfect texture, boil it separately until al dente, then mix it in with the sauce near the end.

Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?

Absolutely! Try these options for fun variations:

  • Rigatoni – great for holding thick sauces.
  • Bowtie (Farfalle) – adds a playful texture.
  • Shells – trap creamy sauce in every bite.
  • Linguine – perfect for an elegant twist.
  • Gluten-Free Pasta – works just as well; follow the package directions.
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Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta


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  • Author: Madilyn
  • Total Time: 3 hrs 10 min

Ingredients

12 oz bottle garlic parmesan wing sauce (Buffalo Wild Wings or similar brand)

2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts

8 oz cream cheese, cubed

1 large onion, chopped

1 cup milk (any kind)

¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

16 oz box rotini pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional garnish: chopped parsley, red pepper flakes


Instructions

  1. Step 1: Combine Ingredients
    Place the chicken breasts, cream cheese, chopped onion, garlic parmesan sauce, and milk in your crock pot. No need to mix — just layer evenly.
  2. Step 2: Cook Until Tender
    Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours or high for 1–2 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
  3. Step 3: Shred the Chicken
    Remove chicken from the slow cooker, shred with two forks, and return it to the pot. Stir to combine everything into a creamy sauce.
  4. Step 4: Cook the Pasta
    While the chicken cooks, prepare the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well.
  5. Step 5: Combine and Thicken
    Add cooked pasta and grated parmesan to the crock pot. Stir well until everything is coated in sauce.
    Cover again and cook on low for 10–15 minutes so the pasta absorbs the flavors.
  6. Step 6: Serve and Garnish
    Serve immediately with chopped parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Enjoy your warm, creamy, and comforting meal!

Notes

  • Creamier Sauce: Add ¼ cup heavy cream during the last 10 minutes if you want a thicker, richer texture.
  • Vegetable Boost: Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor.
  • Meal Prep Tip: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creaminess.
  • Prep Time: 10 min
  • Cook Time: 3 hrs
  • Cuisine: American

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Hey, I'm Madilyn!

I'm a passionate home cook sharing the flavors of my heritage and travels. Through Recipeside, I create approachable recipes that blend comfort food with international influences, helping families make delicious memories together around the dinner table.

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