Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the perfect weeknight dinner when you want something comforting with minimal effort. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and hearty pasta come together in one pot, giving you a satisfying meal without the fuss. It’s a dish that feels special but is surprisingly easy to pull off.

I made this the first time on a chilly Saturday afternoon and it became a family favorite instantly. Everyone loved how the sauce coated the chicken and pasta in every bite.

Ingredients

• Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce: the star flavor that brings a tangy, cheesy kick, try to get the original bottle for authenticity
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: choose fresh and evenly sized pieces for uniform cooking
• Salt for seasoning: I prefer kosher salt for better flavor distribution
• Freshly ground black pepper: adds a subtle heat and depth
• Milk: whole milk works best to keep the sauce creamy without being too thick
• Cream cheese cut into cubes: melts slowly to add richness and smooth texture
• Grated parmesan cheese: opt for freshly grated if possible, it elevates the sauce’s flavor
• Pasta like rotini or penne: pick a sturdy shape that holds the sauce well, cook just until al dente for the best texture

Instructions

Cook the Chicken:

Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and pepper for balanced flavor. Place them in the bottom of your crockpot in a single layer to ensure even cooking.

Add Sauce and Dairy:

Pour the entire bottle of the Parmesan Garlic Sauce over the chicken, spreading it evenly. Shake the empty bottle with the milk then pour the mixture over the chicken for a perfectly blended sauce. Add the cream cheese cubes and sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese on top. Gently stir to combine everything so the chicken is coated well.

Cook Until Tender:

Cover your crockpot and cook on high setting for two to three hours or low for three to four hours. This slow cooking will make the chicken melt-in-your-mouth tender and let all the flavors meld beautifully.

Shred the Chicken:

Once cooked, transfer the chicken breasts to a cutting board or plate. Use two forks to shred the chicken finely or chop into bite-sized pieces if preferred. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot to soak up the sauce.

Prepare and Add Pasta:

Cook your pasta according to package directions until just al dente. Drain thoroughly to avoid watery sauce. Add the pasta to the crockpot and stir everything together ensuring the pasta is well coated with the garlic parmesan sauce.

Parmesan garlic sauce is my favorite ingredient here, it gives a bold yet creamy punch that makes this dish feel indulgent without extra work. I remember making this for a Sunday dinner when my in-laws came over and everyone kept asking for seconds because of that sauce’s unforgettable flavor.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the Buffalo Wild Wings sauce with any garlic parmesan wing sauce or a homemade mix of garlic powder, parmesan, butter, and a little cream. For a lighter option, use half and half instead of whole milk and cream cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. Crusty garlic bread on the side is always a hit for soaking up every last bit of sauce.

This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta makes an easy, comforting weeknight meal that tastes special with minimal effort. It reheats well and is great for leftovers.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ What type of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for even cooking and shredding, but thighs can be used for a juicier texture.

→ Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, short pasta like rotini, penne, or shells work well to hold the creamy sauce and tender chicken pieces.

→ How long should I cook this on high in the crockpot?

Cooking on high for 2 to 3 hours allows the chicken to become tender and absorb the creamy parmesan garlic flavors.

→ Is it possible to make this on the stovetop?

Yes, simmering ingredients in a pot for about 30 minutes creates a creamy sauce and tender chicken for a quicker version.

→ Can I substitute cream cheese with another ingredient?

Cream cheese adds richness and creaminess; however, mascarpone or ricotta can be used for a similar texture.

→ How should I season the chicken for the best flavor?

Simple seasoning with kosher salt and fresh black pepper enhances the meat without overpowering the parmesan garlic sauce.