Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- Chicken:
- 2 –3 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Salt pepper, paprika (to taste)
- Pasta:
- 8 oz 225 g pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rotini)
- Creamy Sauce:
- 3 –4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup 100 g grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup 240 ml heavy cream (or lighter alternative)
- Optional: fresh herbs thyme, parsley, basil
- Seasonings:
- Salt & black pepper
- Italian seasoning
- Optional: red pepper flakes
- Optional Add-ins:
- Sun-dried tomatoes mushrooms, spinach
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken:
- Season with salt, pepper, paprika.
- Optional: sear in a skillet 2–3 min per side.
- Make Sauce:
- Mix garlic, cream, Parmesan, and seasonings until smooth.
- Cook in Slow Cooker:
- Place chicken in slow cooker.
- Pour sauce over chicken.
- Cook: low 4–6 hrs or high 2–3 hrs until chicken is tender.
- Add Pasta:
- 20–30 min before serving, add uncooked pasta.
- Stir gently and cook until al dente and sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with parsley or extra Parmesan.
- Pair with salad or garlic bread.
Notes
- Avoid thin sauce: Add cornstarch or reduce sauce before pasta.
- Prevent dry chicken: Don’t overcook; check internal temp (165°F / 74°C).
- Enhance flavor: Use homemade stock, add vegetables or cream cheese.
- Variations: Shrimp, turkey, zoodles, gluten-free pasta, or vegan cream alternatives.