Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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Looking for a comforting and delicious meal that requires minimal effort? The Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the perfect dish for you. This recipe brings together tender, shredded chicken, creamy Parmesan cheese, and flavorful fettuccine pasta in a rich, savory sauce. Prepared in a slow cooker, it’s an ideal option for busy days when you want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you opt for the low or high cooking setting, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser.

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

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
  2. Make the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine chicken broth, heavy cream, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  4. Shred the Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
  5. Add Parmesan: Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and add grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
  6. Cook the Pasta: Cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker.
  7. Combine: Gently stir everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.
  8. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 6-7 hours (slow cooker) or 3-4 hours (high)
Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes (slow cooker) or 4 hours 15 minutes (high)
Kcal: 455 kcal
Servings: 4 servings

Serving and Storage Tips :

Serving Tips

  1. Serve Hot: The Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is best enjoyed hot, right after cooking. This ensures that the creamy sauce is at its most flavorful and the pasta is perfectly coated.
  2. Garnish for Presentation: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. This not only enhances the dish’s visual appeal but also adds a fresh burst of flavor.
  3. Pairing Suggestions: Complement the meal with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded dinner. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or some steamed broccoli can balance the richness of the pasta.
  4. Portion Control: This recipe serves approximately 4 people. For larger gatherings or families, consider doubling the recipe and using two slow cookers or preparing it in batches.

Storage Tips

  1. Cool Before Storing: Allow the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta to cool to room temperature before transferring it to storage containers. This helps prevent condensation and keeps the dish from becoming soggy.
  2. Airtight Containers: Store leftovers in airtight containers to keep the pasta fresh. Properly sealed containers help prevent the dish from absorbing any unwanted odors from the refrigerator.
  3. Refrigeration: Keep the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or a bit of cream if the sauce has thickened.
  4. Freezing: If you have a large batch or want to prepare meals in advance, the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta can be frozen. Transfer the cooled pasta to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
  5. Reheating from Frozen: To reheat frozen pasta, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, and add a little chicken broth or cream to restore the creamy texture if needed.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta remains delicious and enjoyable for every meal.

Variations :

  1. Vegetable Additions:
    • Bell Peppers: Add diced bell peppers for extra color and crunch.
    • Spinach or Kale: Stir in fresh spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for added nutrients and flavor.
    • Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms and mix them in for an earthy flavor.
  2. Different Cheeses:
    • Mozzarella: Swap out some or all of the Parmesan for shredded mozzarella for a gooey, melty texture.
    • Asiago or Pecorino Romano: For a sharper cheese flavor, use Asiago or Pecorino Romano.
  3. Protein Variations:
    • Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful alternative.
    • Shrimp: Substitute shrimp for the chicken. Add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.
  4. Spicy Kick:
    • Red Pepper Flakes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to introduce a bit of heat.
    • Cajun Seasoning: Mix in some Cajun seasoning for a spicy, savory twist.
  5. Pasta Alternatives:
    • Penne or Rotini: Substitute fettuccine with other pasta shapes like penne or rotini to change up the texture and presentation.
    • Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier or dietary-friendly option.
  6. Herb Variations:
    • Fresh Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme for added freshness.
    • Italian Seasoning: Add Italian seasoning for a more robust flavor profile.
  7. Cream Alternatives:
    • Greek Yogurt: Replace some or all of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier option.
    • Coconut Milk: Use full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free, slightly sweet alternative.
  8. Add Nuts:
    • Pine Nuts: Toasted pine nuts can add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
    • Walnuts: Chopped walnuts provide a hearty texture and additional taste.
  9. Make it Low-Carb:
    • Zoodles: Substitute zucchini noodles (zoodles) for the fettuccine to create a low-carb version of this dish.
    • Spaghetti Squash: Use roasted spaghetti squash instead of pasta for a lighter alternative.
  10. Make it a Bake:
    • Baked Variation: After mixing the pasta with the sauce, transfer it to a baking dish, sprinkle additional cheese on top, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.

These variations can help tailor the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta to fit different tastes and dietary needs, making it a versatile recipe that’s easily adaptable to various preferences.

FAQs:

  1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
    • Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken. Add it to the slow cooker in the last hour of cooking to ensure it warms through and absorbs the flavors.
  2. Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
    • Absolutely! You can cook this dish on the stovetop. Simply simmer the chicken and sauce mixture in a large pot until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Then, stir in the cooked pasta and cheese.
  3. How do I adjust the recipe for a larger crowd?
    • To make a larger batch, you can double or triple the ingredients. Use a larger slow cooker or cook in batches. Ensure that the chicken and pasta are evenly coated with the sauce.
  4. Can I freeze the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
    • Yes, you can freeze it. Let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  5. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
    • If you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, whole milk, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream.
  6. Can I use other types of pasta?
    • Yes, you can use other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta. Just ensure it’s cooked according to package instructions before adding it to the slow cooker.
  7. How can I make this recipe spicier?
    • Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture to give the dish a spicy kick.
  8. Can I use a different cheese?
    • Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other cheeses such as mozzarella, Asiago, or Pecorino Romano for different flavors and textures.
  9. What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
    • If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out by adding a little more chicken broth or heavy cream until you reach your desired consistency.
  10. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
    • Yes, you can prepare the dish up to a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

These FAQs should help address common questions and provide useful tips for making the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta to suit your preferences and needs.

The Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the creamy richness of Parmesan with the aromatic essence of garlic. With its easy slow cooker preparation, this recipe fits seamlessly into busy schedules while delivering a meal that feels both comforting and indulgent. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this dish ensures that everyone at the table will enjoy a delicious and hearty meal. Give this recipe a try, and experience the convenience and taste of a homemade meal with minimal fuss.