Welcome to a delicious and hassle-free recipe that will tantalize your taste buds and fill your kitchen with delightful aromas. In this article, we present to you a mouthwatering dish that combines tender chicken, aromatic garlic, savory Parmesan cheese, and al dente pasta.
This crock pot garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is the perfect blend of flavors and textures, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that will surely become a family favorite. So, grab your apron and get ready to indulge in this delectable dish!
Equipment
To prepare this scrumptious crock pot garlic Parmesan chicken pasta, you’ll need the following equipment:
- Crock pot or slow cooker
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving bowls or plates
Ingredients
For this flavorful dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds (680 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 8 ounces (225 grams) uncooked penne pasta
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté the chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned on all sides. Set the chicken aside by taking it out from the skillet.
- Build the sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any flavorful bits. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Continue mixing until the sauce become smooth and creamy.
- Assemble in the crock pot: Transfer the chicken pieces into the crock pot and pour the sauce over the chicken. Give it a gentle stir to coat the chicken evenly.
- Slow cook: Cover the crock pot with its lid and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Cook the pasta: About 20 minutes before serving, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the cooked pasta and set it aside.
- Combine pasta and chicken: Add the cooked pasta to the crock pot, gently stirring it into the chicken and sauce until well combined. Let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve and garnish: Once the pasta has absorbed the flavors, serve the crock pot garlic Parmesan chicken pasta in individual bowls or plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of freshness and color.
Cooking Tips
- For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken pieces in a mixture of olive oil, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a little water and add it to the sauce during the last 30 minutes of slow cooking. This will help thicken the sauce.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. You can add more salt, pepper, or Italian herbs if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the crock pot garlic Parmesan chicken pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Sprinkle some additional grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra richness and flavor.
- Pair it with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing citrus-infused sparkling water to complement the flavors.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this crock pot garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is a delightful combination of tender chicken, aromatic garlic, creamy Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can easily prepare this flavorful dish with minimal effort. It’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed for a cozy family dinner or served to guests at a gathering. So, why wait? Gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and savor the delectable flavors of this comforting Italian-inspired dish.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Certainly! Bone-in chicken pieces like chicken thighs or drumsticks can indeed be utilized. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in chicken may take slightly longer to cook.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne pasta works well in this recipe, you can substitute it with your favorite pasta shape, such as fusilli, farfalle, or rigatoni. Follow the package instructions for cooking time and adjust as needed.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw the frozen pasta in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it in a skillet or microwave.
Can I use low-fat ingredients to make this recipe healthier?
Yes, you can use low-fat alternatives such as reduced-fat Parmesan cheese or light cream. However, keep in mind that the overall flavor and richness of the dish may be slightly affected.
Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of using a crock pot?
Certainly! You can prepare this dish on the stovetop by following the same steps. Instead of slow cooking, simmer the chicken and sauce together in a covered skillet over low heat for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- Crock pot or slow cooker
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving bowls or plates
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds (680 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 8 ounces (225 grams) uncooked penne pasta
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté the chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned on all sides. Set the chicken aside by taking it out from the skillet.
- Build the sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any flavorful bits. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Continue mixing until the sauce become smooth and creamy.
- Assemble in the crock pot: Transfer the chicken pieces into the crock pot and pour the sauce over the chicken. Give it a gentle stir to coat the chicken evenly.
- Slow cook: Cover the crock pot with its lid and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Cook the pasta: About 20 minutes before serving, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the cooked pasta and set it aside.
- Combine pasta and chicken: Add the cooked pasta to the crock pot, gently stirring it into the chicken and sauce until well combined. Let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve and garnish: Once the pasta has absorbed the flavors, serve the crock pot garlic Parmesan chicken pasta in individual bowls or plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of freshness and color.
