Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

When I want a meal that fills my home with the smell of comfort and makes everyone happy, this Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the one I reach for. It’s creamy, full of garlic flavor, and simple to prepare. I just toss in the ingredients, close the lid, and let the slow cooker do the work while life keeps moving.

Hi, I’m Noor Bennett. Cooking for my family in New York is how I unwind after busy days. This recipe reminds me that delicious food doesn’t need to be complicated. The chicken becomes tender, the sauce rich and cheesy, and the pasta soaks up every bit of flavor.

creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta
Close-up of creamy slow cooker garlic parmesan chicken pasta.

If you love meals that bring everyone together, this Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta will be your new favorite. It’s easy, satisfying, and perfect for any night of the week.

Table of Contents

Ingredients Needed for Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Before we dive into cooking, here’s what makes this creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta so irresistible. Each ingredient plays a simple role that adds flavor, texture, or richness without complicating the process.

  • Boneless Chicken Breasts: The heart of this dish. Slow cooking makes them tender and juicy enough to shred easily.
  • Parmesan Garlic Sauce: This is the base of the creamy flavor. Buffalo Wild Wings sauce works perfectly, but you can use any brand or make your own.
  • Cream Cheese: Adds richness and helps create that smooth, velvety texture everyone loves in slow cooker pasta.
  • Fresh Parmesan Cheese: For the best results, use freshly grated cheese—it melts better and adds that nutty aroma.
  • Pasta: Rotini or penne are perfect for holding the sauce. You can swap for gluten-free pasta if needed.
  • Parsley & Red Pepper Flakes: Fresh herbs add color and a little heat, balancing the creaminess of the sauce.
creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta

Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This easy Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is creamy, cheesy, and full of rich garlic flavor. The tender chicken blends perfectly with the creamy Parmesan sauce and pasta, creating a comforting and effortless dinner.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 5 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 1074 kcal

Equipment

  • slow cooker
  • forks (for shredding)
  • saucepan
  • colander
  • serving spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz Parmesan garlic sauce (Buffalo Wild Wings or similar)
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 8 oz cream cheese, cut into cubes
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 10 oz dry pasta, cooked al dente (rotini or penne)
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley for garnish
  • 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Lightly coat the inside of your crock pot with non-stick cooking spray.
  • Place chicken breasts in the bottom and pour the garlic Parmesan sauce over them.
    creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta cooking in crock pot
  • Add cubed cream cheese and grated Parmesan on top.
    Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
  • Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 3–4 hours until chicken is fork-tender.
  • Remove chicken and shred with forks. Return to pot and stir until sauce is smooth.
    shredding chicken for garlic parmesan pasta
  • Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain well.
  • Stir cooked pasta into the creamy chicken mixture. Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes if using.
    adding pasta to crock pot garlic parmesan chicken

Notes

  • Always cook pasta separately to keep it firm and avoid a mushy texture.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded for better melting and flavor.
  • For a lighter version, substitute half the cream cheese with Greek yogurt.
  • Add cooked spinach or broccoli for more nutrients and color.
  • Let the pasta rest uncovered for 5 minutes before serving for a thicker sauce.

Nutrition Information 

  • Per Serving (approximate):
    Calories: 1074
    Protein: 66g
    Carbohydrates: 56g
    Fat: 64g
    Saturated Fat: 37g
    Cholesterol: 302mg
    Sodium: 919mg
    Sugar: 4g
    Fiber: 2g
    Calcium: 239mg
    Iron: 2mg
Values may vary slightly depending on ingredients used.

How to Make Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is all about simplicity. Once you prepare your ingredients, the slow cooker takes over. The key is layering your ingredients correctly and cooking them long enough for the sauce to thicken and coat the pasta perfectly. Here’s how to make it step by step for a creamy, flavorful result.

Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly spray the inside of your crock pot with non-stick spray. This helps prevent any cheese from sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Add the Chicken and Sauce: Lay your chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the entire bottle of garlic Parmesan sauce over the top, ensuring the chicken is fully covered.

creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta cooking in crock pot
Slow cooking the garlic parmesan chicken until tender.

Add the Cheese: Place cubes of cream cheese and sprinkle grated Parmesan over the sauce. This will melt slowly, creating a thick, rich base.

Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Cook Slowly: Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for about 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easy to shred.

Shred and Combine: Remove the chicken from the crock pot, shred it using two forks, and return it to the sauce. Stir everything until smooth and creamy.

shredding chicken for garlic parmesan pasta
Shredding the chicken before mixing with sauce and pasta.

Prepare the Pasta: While the chicken finishes cooking, boil your pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Mix and Serve: Add the pasta to the crock pot and stir to coat every piece with the sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes for color and flavor.

adding pasta to crock pot garlic parmesan chicken
Adding cooked rotini pasta into the creamy chicken mixture.

Optional Step: For a thicker texture, let the pasta sit in the crock pot uncovered for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to cling beautifully to every noodle.

Variations for Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Every family has their own way to enjoy this creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta, and these variations make it easy to switch things up while keeping the same comforting flavor.

1. Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (No Cream Cheese Version)

If you prefer a lighter version, replace cream cheese with 1 cup of Greek yogurt or half-and-half. It still gives a creamy texture but cuts down on richness. The sauce stays flavorful thanks to the garlic and Parmesan combination.

2. TikTok Style Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This social media version adds an extra creamy, cheesy finish. Mix in ½ cup heavy cream and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan before serving. Let it rest for five minutes uncovered to thicken perfectly.

3. Buffalo Wild Wings Copycat Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

For fans of the restaurant flavor, use a bottle of Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce. Add ¼ teaspoon garlic powder and a dash of Italian seasoning for depth. This version gives that tangy, buttery flavor people love from the original.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

This pasta tastes incredible right from the slow cooker, but you can make it even better by pairing it with:

  • A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for balance.
  • Crusty garlic bread to soak up the sauce.
  • A side of steamed broccoli or spinach for color and nutrients.

If you love creamy dinners like this, try my comforting Easy Crockpot Chicken Alfredo Bake.

Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Can I make this recipe without cream cheese?
Yes. Substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or light sour cream for a lighter yet creamy result. Adjust the seasoning slightly to maintain balance.

What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Short pasta like rotini, penne, or shells works best because it holds the sauce well. Avoid thin noodles such as spaghetti since they can become mushy in the crock pot.

Can I use frozen chicken in the slow cooker?
It’s better to thaw your chicken first. Cooking frozen chicken in a slow cooker can cause uneven cooking. Defrost overnight in the fridge for best results.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

Every time I make this Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, I’m reminded why slow cooking is such a gift. There’s nothing better than walking into the kitchen and smelling dinner already done. The chicken melts in your mouth, the sauce is creamy and garlicky, and the pasta ties it all together in the best way.

It’s one of those dinners that feels homemade and hearty, but without the stress. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself after a long day, this meal delivers comfort in every bite.

If you’re in the mood for more slow-cooked magic, try my Dump and Go Teriyaki Chicken or my crowd-pleasing Slow Cooker Cajun Chicken Pasta. Both pair beautifully with the kind of easy cooking style that makes life simpler and tastier.

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