You’re about to dive into the creamiest, dreamiest pasta dish that practically cooks itself. Yes, your slow cooker is the magic wand here, turning simple ingredients into a garlicky, cheesy masterpiece with minimal effort.
Why This Recipe Works
- The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, infusing the chicken with garlic and parmesan flavors as it cooks to perfection.
- It’s a one-pot wonder, meaning fewer dishes and more time to enjoy your meal (or Netflix).
- The creamy sauce is made with real ingredients, no canned soups here, for a fresher, richer taste.
- Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe is as flexible as your schedule.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead meal.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 lb penne pasta, uncooked
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker (6 quarts or larger)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. This size ensures they cook evenly and soak up all that garlic parmesan goodness. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then place it in the slow cooker. Pro tip: For extra flavor, you can brown the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker, but it’s not necessary.
Step 2: Add the Liquids and Garlic
Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream over the chicken. Add the minced garlic and give everything a good stir. The liquid should just cover the chicken. If it doesn’t, add a bit more broth. This is your sauce base, so make sure it’s flavorful by tasting and adjusting the seasoning if needed.
Step 3: Cook Low and Slow
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shred with a fork when done. Resist the urge to peek too often; every time you lift the lid, you add cooking time.
Step 4: Add the Pasta and Cheese
Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the uncooked penne pasta and grated parmesan cheese. The pasta will cook in the creamy sauce, absorbing all the flavors. Cover and cook on high for another 30 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Stir halfway through to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Finish with Butter and Garnish
Before serving, stir in the butter until melted for an extra rich sauce. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness!
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to elevate their slow cooker garlic parmesan chicken pasta, here are some pro tips. First, consider using freshly grated parmesan instead of pre-shredded for a smoother sauce. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Second, if you’re short on time, you can cook the chicken on high for 2 hours instead of low for 4, but low and slow yields more tender chicken. Lastly, for a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the penne for your favorite pasta shape, like fettuccine or rotini, for a different texture.
- Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.
- For a spicy kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño with the garlic.
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked. Just be sure to cut it into pieces before adding it to the slow cooker to ensure even cooking.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce if it’s thickened too much.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you’re good to go.
Summary
This slow cooker garlic parmesan chicken pasta is the ultimate comfort food with minimal effort. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it’s a weeknight winner that’s sure to please the whole family.
