This Crockpot Garlic Parm Chicken is super easy and oh-so-tasty! With just four ingredients, you can enjoy tender chicken drenched in garlic and parmesan flavor.
I love how it practically cooks itself while I’m busy with other things. Serve it over pasta or rice, and you’ll have a delicious meal without any fuss! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe as they become tender and easily shred. If you need an alternative, try chicken thighs for a richer flavor or use tofu for a vegetarian option.
Garlic Parmesan Dressing: This dressing adds a kick of flavor. If you can’t find it, make a simple mix of olive oil, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. You can also use Italian dressing for a different twist.
Cream Cheese: Soften vs. cold makes a big difference in blending. If cream cheese is unavailable, mascarpone or ricotta can work too, but the flavor will change slightly. You might also try Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Penne Pasta: While penne is a great choice, you can swap it with rotini, farfalle, or any pasta you have on hand. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as different shapes may require slight adjustments.
How Do I Cook Chicken in a Crockpot So It’s Always Tender?
Cooking chicken in a crockpot is fantastic because it locks in moisture and flavor. The key is to cook it low and slow. Here’s how to ensure your chicken comes out tender every time:
- Place the chicken evenly at the bottom for even cooking.
- Don’t skip the dressing; it’s essential for flavor and moisture.
- Cooking it on low for 6 to 8 hours usually yields the best results.
- 30 minutes before the end, add uncooked pasta directly into the sauce to absorb all the flavors.
- Shred the chicken gently to keep it juicy and mix it well with the sauce and pasta before serving.
4 Ingredient Crockpot Garlic Parm Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup garlic parmesan dressing
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup penne pasta, uncooked
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and then you can let the crockpot do its magic. Cooking takes 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high. Just remember to add the pasta about 30 minutes before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This will be the base of your delicious dish!
2. Add the Dressing:
Pour the garlic parmesan dressing over the chicken. Make sure all the chicken pieces are well coated, so they soak up that lovely flavor!
3. Add the Cream Cheese:
Cut the softened cream cheese into small chunks and scatter them over the chicken and dressing. This will create a creamy sauce as it cooks.
4. Cook:
Cover the crockpot with its lid. Now, it’s time to cook! Set it on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and tender when it’s done.
5. Add the Pasta:
About 30 minutes before you plan to serve the dish, add the uncooked penne pasta into the crockpot. Stir everything together and cover again to let the pasta cook in that flavorful sauce.
6. Shred the Chicken:
Once the cooking time is up, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the pot. Mix it all back together with the pasta and sauce until everything is combined and yummy.
7. Season and Serve:
Give it a taste and add some salt and pepper if you think it needs a little extra seasoning. Finally, serve your creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta into bowls!
8. Garnish and Enjoy!
If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top before serving. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute the penne pasta with any short pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini or fusilli. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so make sure to check for doneness as you approach the final cooking stage.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of milk or broth if it seems too thick.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
You can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s best to thaw them first for even cooking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or for a quick method, place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water until thawed. If starting from frozen, you may need to add an extra hour to the cooking time.
What Can I Substitute for Garlic Parmesan Dressing?
If you don’t have garlic parmesan dressing on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing Italian dressing with garlic powder and grated parmesan cheese. Alternatively, store-bought alfredo sauce mixed with garlic can also work well to replicate the flavor!
