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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.
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.
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.