There’s something magical about the smell of garlic and parmesan simmering away in the kitchen and this crockpot garlic parmesan chicken with pasta brings that magic to your dinner table with almost no effort at all. It’s one of those go-to meals in our house that pleases even the pickiest eaters. The chicken turns out so tender it practically shreds itself, and the creamy parmesan garlic sauce hugs every noodle just right.

I love making this dish when I know the afternoon will be busy it cooks low and slow while I get everything else done, and the results feel like I’ve been cooking for hours. If you’re looking for a cozy, creamy weeknight dinner that’ll have your family asking for seconds, this is the one!

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Why You’ll Love This Pasta

This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is pure comfort in a bowl. The chicken becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender thanks to the slow cooking, and the rich, cheesy sauce is bursting with garlic flavor. It’s simple to prepare, but feels like something you’d order at a cozy little Italian spot. Even better it’s picky-eater approved!

Simple Ingredients

Here’s a quick look at the simple ingredients that come together to make this creamy garlic chicken pasta a family favorite:

Chicken Breasts
Lean and protein-packed, they cook until tender and shred easily right in the slow cooker.
Olive Oil
Adds a touch of richness and helps keep the chicken moist.
Garlic
The star flavor use fresh for the most aromatic results.
Onion Powder & Italian Seasoning
These pantry staples bring a subtle savory depth and herby goodness.
Salt & Pepper
Essential for seasoning the chicken and balancing all the flavors.
Chicken Broth
Builds the flavorful base of the sauce while keeping the chicken juicy.
Heavy Cream
Adds richness and helps create that creamy, luxurious sauce.
Parmesan Cheese (Affiliate)
Salty, nutty, and full of umami perfect for a garlic cream sauce.
Cream Cheese
Brings that tangy creaminess that binds everything together.
Pasta (Bowtie)
Holds onto all that creamy sauce beautifully and looks so cute on the plate!
Fresh Parsley (optional)
A sprinkle on top gives a nice pop of color and freshness.

Servings & Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4–5 hours (on low) or 2–3 hours (on high)
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (on low)

What is Needed

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup grated parmesan cheese
4 oz cream cheese, cubed
12 oz bowtie pasta (or your favorite shape)
½ cup reserved pasta water (optional)
Fresh parsley and extra parmesan, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. Drizzle with olive oil.
Add garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper directly on top of the chicken.
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Sprinkle in parmesan and add the cubed cream cheese.
Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is fall-apart tender.
About 20 minutes before the crockpot is done, cook your pasta according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. Stir everything together until creamy.
Add the cooked pasta to the crockpot and mix gently. If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Sprinkle with parsley and more parmesan before serving.

Top Tips

Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and texture pre-shredded doesn’t melt as well.
Cut cream cheese into small cubes so it melts faster and evenly into the sauce.
Don’t overcook the pasta slightly al dente works best since it finishes in the warm sauce.
Add veggies like spinach or peas to sneak in some extra nutrition.
Let little ones help stir in the pasta a fun, safe way to get them involved!

Recipe Variations

Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra juiciness.
Swap bowtie pasta for penne, rotini, or fettuccine.
Add baby spinach or steamed broccoli before serving.
Stir in a little crushed red pepper for a subtle kick.

Recommended Equipment

6-quart slow cooker (my slow cooker)
Large pot for boiling pasta
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board and sharp knife
Mixing spoon or spatula
Forks (for shredding)

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prep all the ingredients the night before and store them (except the pasta) in the fridge in a sealed container. In the morning, dump everything into the crockpot and let it cook while you go about your day.

How to Store and Reheat

Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Freeze: Not recommended due to the cream-based sauce separating upon thawing.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
Steamed green beans or a crisp green salad
Roasted broccoli or asparagus
A glass of lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing touch

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