Diving into a dish of Creamy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is like wrapping yourself in a warm, flavorful blanket. The ease of preparation in a slow cooker combined with the richness of the creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce makes this dish a family favorite. I’ve made it countless times for gatherings, and it always leaves everyone asking for the recipe. It’s the perfect comfort food, blending tender chicken with the smooth texture of fettuccine, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Mix chicken broth, heavy cream, minced garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Pour over the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or high for 3-4 hours, until chicken is tender.
- Remove chicken, shred it, and return it to the slow cooker.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Cook fettuccine pasta as per instructions, drain, and add to the slow cooker.
- Stir to combine everything, ensuring pasta is coated in sauce.
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: Approximately 6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 550 kcal
- Note: Calorie count may vary based on specific ingredients used.
This meal not only tantalizes the taste buds but also provides a good balance of protein, carbs, and fats.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Total time: About 6 hours and 30 minutes to 7 hours and 15 minutes
Additional Tips
- To enhance the flavor, consider browning the chicken slightly before placing it in the slow cooker.
- For a healthier version, use low-fat cream and whole wheat pasta.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated, making it a great option for meal prep.
FAQ Section
- Can I use other types of pasta? Absolutely! While fettuccine is recommended, feel free to use spaghetti, penne, or any pasta of your choice.
- Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, you can, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly longer to ensure the chicken cooks through completely.
- Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.
- Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free? You can use dairy-free cream and a vegan Parmesan alternative to adapt the recipe.
- Can I add vegetables to this dish? Yes, adding vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers can increase the nutritional value.
- How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- Can I cook the pasta in the slow cooker? It’s best to cook the pasta separately to avoid it becoming too soft or mushy.