Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Looking for a simple and flavorful dinner option that combines tender chicken with creamy Parmesan pasta? This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe is perfect for busy evenings when you want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Using a slow cooker, this dish comes together effortlessly and delivers a rich, savory flavor that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle Parmesan Garlic Sauce (12 oz)
• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup milk
• 8 oz cream cheese, cut into blocks
• 4 oz shredded or grated Parmesan cheese
• 12 oz pasta

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the entire bottle of Parmesan Garlic Sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.

2. Add Milk: Fill the Parmesan Garlic Sauce bottle with milk and shake to combine any remaining sauce. Add the milk to the slow cooker along with the remaining sauce from the bottle.

3. Incorporate Cream Cheese: Add the blocks of cream cheese to the slow cooker. This will melt and blend into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.

4. Mix in Parmesan Cheese: Add 4 oz of shredded or grated Parmesan cheese to the slow cooker. Stir everything together to combine and coat the chicken evenly.

5. Slow Cook: Cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be tender and easy to shred.

6. Shred the Chicken: Once the cooking time is complete, shred the chicken with two forks and return it to the slow cooker. Mix well to combine the chicken with the sauce.

7. Cook the Pasta: Prepare the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker.

8. Combine and Serve: Stir the pasta into the chicken and sauce mixture until well combined. Serve warm and enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

• Serve Warm: For the best taste and texture, serve the garlic Parmesan chicken pasta warm. It’s a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for dinner.
• Garnish Options: Consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or additional grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and presentation.
• Accompaniments: Pair this dish with a side of steamed vegetables, a crisp green salad, or garlic bread to make a complete meal.
• Portion Size: Serve individual portions directly from the slow cooker or transfer to a large serving dish for a family-style meal.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta and chicken can be kept for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
• Freezing: To freeze, allow the pasta and chicken mixture to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat leftovers in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. If reheating from frozen, thaw first and then reheat. You may need to add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens during freezing.
• Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, avoid overcooking as it can make the pasta mushy. Heat just until warmed through to maintain the best texture.

Additional Tips:

• Sauce Consistency: If the sauce seems too thick after reheating, add a bit of milk or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
• Stir Well: Stir the pasta and sauce mixture well after reheating to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta at its best, whether you’re serving it fresh or enjoying it as leftovers.

Variations:

1. Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:

• Add Fresh Flavor: Incorporate a tablespoon of lemon juice and a teaspoon of lemon zest into the sauce. This adds a bright, fresh flavor that complements the garlic and Parmesan.

2. Spicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:

• Add Heat: Mix in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.

3. Creamy Mushroom Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:

• Include Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms and add them to the slow cooker along with the chicken. This addition adds an earthy, savory element to the dish.

4. Sun-Dried Tomato Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:

• Add Tomatoes: Stir in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or a spoonful of tomato paste to the sauce for a rich, tangy flavor.

5. Spinach and Artichoke Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:

• Add Greens: Mix in fresh spinach or chopped artichoke hearts for added texture and nutrition. These ingredients can be added during the last 30 minutes of cooking to keep them vibrant.

6. Bacon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:

• Include Bacon: Cook and crumble bacon and mix it into the pasta for a smoky, savory addition. Bacon bits can be stirred in just before serving.

7. Mediterranean Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:

• Mediterranean Twist: Add ingredients like Kalamata olives, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese to the pasta for a Mediterranean flavor profile.

8. Alfredo Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:

• Alfredo Style: Substitute half of the Parmesan Garlic Sauce with Alfredo sauce for a richer, creamier texture.

9. Pesto Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:

• Add Pesto: Stir in a few tablespoons of basil pesto to the sauce for a fresh, herbaceous twist on the classic recipe.

10. Vegetable Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate a mix of your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes. Sauté them before adding to the slow cooker to ensure they are tender.

These variations offer different flavor profiles and additional ingredients to keep your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta exciting and new. Feel free to mix and match to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Gruyère if you prefer. Each will add a different flavor and texture to the dish.

2. Can I use a different cut of chicken?

Certainly! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are used in this recipe, you can also use thighs or drumsticks. Adjust the cooking time if using different cuts to ensure they are fully cooked.

3. Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can prepare this dish on the stovetop. Cook the chicken in a skillet until tender, then add the sauce and cream cheese, and simmer until the sauce thickens. Combine with cooked pasta and serve.

4. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free Parmesan cheese alternative and substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese. Ensure the Parmesan Garlic Sauce is also dairy-free.

5. Can I use homemade sauce instead of bottled Parmesan Garlic Sauce?

Yes, you can use homemade garlic Parmesan sauce if you prefer. Just ensure it’s similar in consistency and flavor to the bottled version to achieve the best results.

6. How do I adjust the recipe for a smaller or larger batch?

To adjust the recipe, scale the ingredients proportionally. For a smaller batch, halve the ingredients, and for a larger batch, double them. Ensure the slow cooker size is appropriate for the batch you are making.

7. Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?

Yes, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta as a substitute. Cook according to package instructions and add it to the slow cooker as directed.

8. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

9. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

10. What can I do if the sauce is too thick after cooking?

If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of milk or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. Stir well and heat until the sauce is evenly combined and smooth.

These FAQs provide solutions and tips for common questions about making and enjoying Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, ensuring that you can customize and enjoy this dish to your liking.

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a fantastic option for a quick and satisfying dinner. The slow cooker makes the process easy, allowing you to prepare a delicious meal with minimal effort. With its creamy Parmesan sauce and tender chicken, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the comforting flavors and convenience of this tasty recipe!