Dinner

The Best Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

ByMarina Montclair October 16, 2025October 16, 2025

Introduction

This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken slowly cooks in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce before being tossed with your favorite pasta. It’s easy, flavorful, and sure to become a family favorite.

A close-up of a creamy baked pasta dish served in a white bowl, showing two main layers: the bottom layer is twisted yellow pasta pieces coated in rich, smooth white cheese sauce; the top layer has browned, slightly crispy cheese and chunks of cooked ground meat mixed throughout, sprinkled with small green herb pieces, all sitting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp salt
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed and softened
1 tbsp minced garlic
12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite)
½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Optional: chopped parsley or extra Parmesan for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Add the chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and minced garlic over the chicken.
Step 3: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 4: Shred the chicken in the crockpot using two forks and stir to combine with the sauce.
Step 5: Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and add the cooked pasta to the crockpot.
Step 6: Pour in heavy cream or half-and-half, stir everything together until pasta is well coated and creamy.
Step 7: Serve warm, topped with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

Cook pasta separately to avoid overcooking and maintain its texture.
Add cream after slow cooking to prevent sauce separation and keep it smooth.
Use fresh garlic and freshly grated Parmesan for the boldest, creamiest flavor.
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or reduce the cream cheese slightly.
Try different pasta shapes like fusilli or farfalle for variety.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess. This dish freezes well in single portions; thaw completely and stir while reheating to bring the sauce back together.

How to Serve

A close-up view of creamy baked pasta served in a white plate, showing three main layers: the base layer of soft creamy sauce mixed evenly with small chunks of browned meat; the middle layer of twisted yellow pasta coated fully with sauce; the top layer has golden-browned cheese spots dotted unevenly, sprinkled with small green parsley pieces and light black pepper flakes across the surface, all sitting on a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but increase the cooking time slightly and make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before shredding.

What type of pasta works best in this recipe?

Penne, rotini, or other sturdy pasta shapes that hold up well to creamy sauces are ideal. Avoid delicate pastas like angel hair, as they may become mushy.