Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that's perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts are slow-cooked in a rich and creamy Parmesan garlic sauce, then combined with pasta for a complete meal. The Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce adds a wonderful depth of flavor, while cream cheese and Parmesan cheese create a luxurious, creamy texture. Simply prepare the ingredients, let the crockpot do the work, and you'll have a delicious dinner ready to serve. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite with its delicious blend of flavors and comforting, hearty appeal.
If you’re looking for a comforting and easy-to-make meal that’s packed with flavor, this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the perfect choice. Combining tender chicken breasts with a rich and creamy Parmesan garlic sauce, this dish is slow-cooked to perfection in a crockpot. It’s a great option for busy weeknights or when you want to serve something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The addition of pasta makes it a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the detailed ingredients you’ll need to make this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients
Here’s a detailed list of ingredients for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:
- 1 (12 oz.) bottle of Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce: This sauce serves as the base for our dish, adding a rich and savory flavor.
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts: These will become tender and juicy after slow cooking in the sauce.
- 1 cup milk: Helps to thin out the sauce and adds creaminess.
- 8 oz. cream cheese, cut into blocks: Adds a rich, creamy texture to the sauce.
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Infuses the dish with a salty, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the garlic sauce.
- 12 oz. pasta: Any type of pasta will work, but penne or rotini are great options as they hold the sauce well.
With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to prepare a dish that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. The combination of the Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce with the creaminess of the cheese and the tender chicken makes this pasta dish truly special. Next, we’ll go through the detailed instructions to make this delicious meal step by step.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to prepare the perfect Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. This easy and delicious recipe requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or any time you crave a comforting meal.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Place 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. Pour the entire 12 oz bottle of Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce over the chicken. This sauce will infuse the chicken with rich, savory flavors as it cooks.
Step 2: Add Milk
Fill the empty Parmesan Garlic Sauce bottle with 1 cup of milk. Shake well to ensure you get all the remaining sauce from the bottle, then pour the milk into the crockpot. This step helps to thin out the sauce and adds extra creaminess to the dish.
Step 3: Add Cheese
Cut 8 oz of cream cheese into blocks and add them to the crockpot. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese over the top. Stir everything together to combine and ensure the chicken is well-coated with the sauce and cheese mixture.
Step 4: Cook
Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The cooking time may vary depending on your crockpot, so check the chicken periodically to ensure it is fully cooked and tender.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and mix well to combine it with the sauce. The shredded chicken will absorb the flavorful sauce, making every bite delicious.
Step 6: Cook the Pasta
While the chicken is cooking, prepare 12 oz of pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta well and set aside. Any type of pasta will work, but penne or rotini are great options as they hold the sauce well.
Step 7: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the crockpot and stir to combine. The pasta will soak up some of the creamy sauce, making it even more flavorful. Serve the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
By following these steps, you'll create a creamy, flavorful dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Next, we'll cover some serving and storage tips, along with helpful notes and variations to customize this recipe to your liking.
Serving Tips
- Garnish: Enhance the presentation and flavor by garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Side Dishes: This rich and creamy pasta pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also makes a great accompaniment.
- Serving Temperature: Serve the pasta hot, straight from the crockpot, to enjoy the creamy sauce at its best consistency.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta will keep well for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream while reheating to restore the creamy texture of the sauce.
- Freezing: If you plan to freeze the dish, it’s best to freeze the sauce and chicken mixture separately from the pasta. When ready to serve, thaw the sauce and chicken, reheat, and then mix with freshly cooked pasta.
Helpful Notes and Variations
Here are some helpful notes and variations to customize your Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:
- Vegetable Additions: Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to the crockpot for extra nutrition and flavor. Simply stir them in during the last hour of cooking.
- Cheese Variations: Try using different cheeses such as mozzarella or Asiago for a different flavor profile. A blend of cheeses can also add depth to the dish.
- Protein Alternatives: If you prefer, substitute the chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a more tender and flavorful result. You can also use turkey or even shrimp for a different twist.
According to renowned chefs, the key to a great dish is quality ingredients and a balance of flavors. This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta allows you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. Customize it to your taste, and it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
Summary
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is an easy, delicious, and creamy dish perfect for a comforting meal. Tender chicken breasts are slow-cooked with a rich Parmesan garlic sauce, then combined with pasta for a satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.